Development of antiviral supplements derived from Spirulina microalgae

Project title: CovidX

Partners: WAX

Research Fund: EIT Food

Initial year: 2020

Service Category:

algae

Contact

Rósa Jónsdóttir

Research Group Leader

rosa.jonsdottir@matis.is

The goal of CovidX is to see if supplements based on the new Spirulina extract can strengthen the immune system and help reduce the risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 infection. 

Aqueous solution of Spirulina concentrate is already approved for use in US and EU foods without toxicity or known allergens. It has unique benefits, including life security, consistent quality and taste, odorless and contains a lot of bioactive compounds. The goal of the supplement is to develop a natural shield for at-risk individuals such as the elderly and people with severe underlying medical conditions, as well as groups with high exposure to healthcare professionals, but the supplement is not a substitute for SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations.

As part of the EIT's crisis response initiative EIT's Crisis Response Initiative, These activities directly contribute to the European Union's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.