Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) is a cyanobacterium, often called a microalgae, that has existed on Earth for over three billion years — one of the oldest living organisms on the planet, with an exceptional nutritional composition. A superfood is defined as a food with an exceptionally high nutrient density relative to its calorie content. Spirulina fits this perfectly: for just 10 calories per teaspoon (3g), it provides 2g of complete protein, highly bioavailable iron, beta-carotene (provitamin A), vitamin B12, vitamins B1 and B2, magnesium, calcium, chlorophyll, and above all phycocyanin, a blue pigment with unique antioxidant properties. Few other foods concentrate so many micronutrients in such a small volume.

Format matters when consuming spirulina daily. Flamant Vert’s micro-granules offer an ideal compromise between classic powder and tablets — they dissolve easily in liquid while being pleasant to handle, without the fine dust typical of powder. This format allows fast assimilation, as the granules break down quickly on contact with digestive juices. Unlike tablets, which need binders and compression agents, micro-granules are 100% pure spirulina with no excipients, which also preserves heat- and pressure-sensitive nutrients such as phycocyanin and B vitamins. The 370g pot supports a long course, more economical than small packs, for uninterrupted regular supplementation.

Phycocyanin is the blue-green pigment characteristic of spirulina — one of its most valuable, and also most fragile, compounds. It is a powerful natural antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress, and also plays a role in supporting the immune system and cellular detoxification processes. Phycocyanin content depends directly on growing conditions and drying method. Flamant Vert spirulina is dried at low temperature (40-45°C), maximising phycocyanin retention compared with spirulina dried by high-temperature spray-drying, which loses a significant portion of this pigment. Ecocert certification guarantees that the entire production process, from cultivation to packaging, follows organic farming standards.

Mix the micro-granules into fruit juice, a smoothie, compote, yoghurt, or sprinkle over a salad. Avoid heating above 40°C to preserve heat-sensitive nutrients. One teaspoon (about 3g) is the standard daily dose, best taken in the morning or at midday for the energising effect. Beginners should start with 1g a day for the first week, then increase gradually to the desired dose.

Food supplement. Not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children. Not recommended for people with phenylketonuria. If in doubt, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

How can I tell a spirulina is rich in phycocyanin?

Colour is a good indicator: a high-quality spirulina shows a deep, almost bluish dark green. Lower-quality spirulina, dried at high temperature or poorly stored, tends toward a dull olive green. Smell is also revealing — good spirulina has a fresh marine scent, with no rancid notes. Solubility is a simple test too: diluting a spoonful in a glass of water should give an intense blue-green colour, a sign of active phycocyanin.

Is micro-granule spirulina better than tablets?

Micro-granules are 100% pure spirulina, with no binders or compression agents added, offering better bioavailability and mixing easily into drinks and food. Tablets remain more convenient for travel, but micro-granules are the preferred format for daily use at home.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.