FROM: Sturgess, Frances Coulter
TO:[log in to unmask]
SUBJECT: blue green algae
DATE: 01-16-97   15:39 EST
PRIORITY:


was interested to see post re: contaminants in lake where algae was being
grown for harvest--I was going to caution about same issue but without the
documentation.  In addition, back when SPIRULINA first hit the news about
being a boon to the Third World as an inexpensive source of protein and B VIts
there was a rash/upsurge of sales.  Various people got sick from as little as
a tablesppoon of the stuff--some due to allergic reactions to these one celled
creatures, some from contaminants (and not all algae is the same--different
species can be mixed, with potential for toxicity).  Also, people with gout
(no one on this list, i wouldn't supppose) would suffer flareups taking
this--high RNA/DNA content/nucleotides)

Anyway, as a protein source for the US, its not necessary.  As a vitamin
supplement, there are others if you fear dietary inadequacy.  Whatever you do,
be sure of your source/farmraised without contaminants or whatever...