spirulina

American  

[spahy-ruh-lahy-nuh] / ˌspaɪ rəˈlaɪ nə /

noun

1. Microbiology. any of three species of the cyanobacteria genus Arthrospira, especially A. platensis, which is widely cultivated as a dietary supplement.

2. the dietary supplement itself, which is a source of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants.

   Add a spoonful of powdered spirulina to your morning smoothie.

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spirulina British  

/ ˌspɪrʊˈlaɪnə, -ˈliːnə /

noun

1. any filamentous cyanobacterium of the genus Spirulina : processed as a valuable source of proteins and other nutrients

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Etymology

Origin of spirulina

First recorded in 1840–50; New Latin, equivalent to spīrul(a) “small coil” + -īna (adjective suffix); so called from their corkscrew shape; spiral, -ina ², -ule,

Example Sentences

Expect to see more turmeric and spirulina extracts and “fruit and vegetable juice” listed on your candy wrappers in the next few years.

From The Wall Street Journal

Their vibrant colors are also achieved using fruit juice and spirulina extract, not artificial food dyes.

From Salon

The freeze-dried puffs are made with natural ingredients, including spirulina, paprika, vegetable juice, turmeric and fruit juice.

From Salon

A colorful and refreshing sweet treat, TJ’s Watermelon Freeze Dried Candies are made with spirulina, paprika, vegetable juice, turmeric and fruit juice.

From Salon

When dried out it's know as spirulina and is used as a dietary supplements, a food ingredients, and as a bright-blue food colouring.

From BBC