Expanding horizons: Harnessing Dunaliella microalgae for sustainable organic pigment production

Abstract

The demand for organic pigments across various industries, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, has led to a quest for diverse and sustainable sources. Microalgae of the Dunaliella species have emerged as promising candidates for pigment production due to their ability to mitigate CO₂ emissions and thrive under extreme environmental conditions, such as high salinity and intense light exposure, even in sub-zero temperatures. This review uses Dunaliella species to explore the bioprocesses harnessing natural pigments, including chlorophylls (a, b, c, d, and f), carotenes (α and β), and xanthophylls. This review investigates the important process parameters: synthetic mediums, light regimes, CO₂ utilization strategies, and solvent choices employed in pigment production from Dunaliella species. Moreover, it analyzes this expanding industry’s economic and environmental impacts, emphasizing the need for cost-effective and eco-friendly large-scale applications. By elucidating advancements in cultivation, extraction techniques, and pigment utilization, this review aims to pave the way for the widespread adoption of Dunaliella-based pigment extraction, promising a greener and more sustainable future.