Microalgae biomass as a sustainable solution for food security: Advances in biotechnology and their role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Current agricultural systems are not sustainable and are based on exploiting resources and harmful practices. Microalgae offer a sustainable alternative due to their high nutritional value, rapid growth, and low resource requirements. They are rich in proteins, fatty acids, antioxidants, and pigments and serve as functional food ingredients. Advances in biotechnology have improved their commercial potential, but regulatory constraints limit the use of bioactive compounds. Microalgae contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including food security (SDG 2), health (SDG 3), sustainable production (SDG 12), emission reduction (SDG 13), and aquatic food sustainability (SDG 14). Improving digestibility, optimizing large-scale production, and improving consumer awareness can drive their integration into the food industry. This overview highlights the role of microalgae in achieving the SDGs, promoting their sustainable use in food systems, and strengthening the need for policy and technological advancements to foster their growth in the sector.