Eukaryotic diatoms: food and feed processing

Eukaryotic diatoms, single-celled photosynthetic microorganisms, have the potential to be extensively used in food and feed processing due to their ability to produce highly beneficial products and their rich silica content. Their ability to produce high-value nutrients such as fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential amino acids makes them a sustainable alternative to traditional sources. When cultivated under controlled environmental conditions with proper monitoring, they can be sustainably upscaled. Utilizing genetic engineering techniques and innovative processing techniques, the bioavailability of nutrients and the production of functional ingredients for health-promoting foods and aquaculture feeds can be enhanced. Moreover, their fast growth rates, adaptability to bioreactor systems, and potential for economic production offer a pathway to optimize nutrient profiles and reduce production costs. This chapter explores diatom cultivation, biochemical properties, and biotechnological applications in food and feed industries, highlighting their role in addressing global nutritional challenges sustainably.