Brevel introduces indoor-cultivated chlorella ingredient for nutraceutical applications
Israeli microalgae company Brevel has launched Purallis™, a clean-label chlorella ingredient cultivated entirely indoors using a closed, sterile bioreactor system. The product targets nutraceutical formulators seeking consistent, contaminant-free chlorella amid well-documented supply constraints affecting the ingredient.
The supply-chain problem with conventional chlorella
Approximately 90% of global chlorella is grown in freshwater ponds, a method that exposes the microalgae to environmental pollutants. Chlorella is a known bioaccumulator, capable of binding heavy metals and other contaminants from surrounding water and air. This biological characteristic means that pond-grown material requires rigorous routine testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants – a requirement that has historically strained reliable supply of specification-grade material.
“The strict requirements for purity, consistency, and safety have tended to strain supply of this ingredient,” said Yonatan Golan, co-founder and CEO of Brevel. “Our illuminated fermen-tation platform is instrumental in helping ease the strain on the supply of ultra-pure, highly nutritious chlorella in a consistent manner.”
How illuminated fermentation works
Brevel’s proprietary platform combines light exposure with conventional fermentation within a sealed, sterile system – a configuration the company states is a first in the microalgae sector. Traditional fermentation operates in darkness and achieves high biomass yields, but cannot replicate the light-driven biosynthesis of key nutritional compounds. By integrating light into the fermentation environment, Brevel reports that Purallis delivers elevated levels of protein, antioxidants, and chlorophyll, alongside a mild flavour profile and adjustable mineral content, including iron, for targeted formulations.
To address chlorella’s well-known bioavailability challenge – a thick, rigid cell wall composed of cellulose and sporopollenin – the company employs mechanical bead milling to rupture cells and release intracellular contents without recourse to harsh chemical or thermal processing.
Nutritional profile and market positioning
Chlorella vulgaris is composed of approximately 50% protein by dry weight and provides a complete amino acid spectrum, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals, fibre, carotenoids, and polyphenols. Recent research has also examined its potential as a prebiotic, with polysaccharide compounds identified as possible modulators of gut microbiota composition.
Yfah Burstin, Chief Business Officer at Brevel, noted that Purallis™ may also suit formulations targeting users of GLP-1 receptor agonists: “It also could serve as a strategic nutritional tool for filling protein and nutrient gaps in GLP-1 and other reduced-calorie diets where users must be sure they are getting more from every bite they consume.”
Market context and production scale
The global chlorella market is currently valued at approximately US$328 million, with projections suggesting it could reach US$486 million by the early 2030s, driven by consumer demand for plant-based and functional health ingredients.
Brevel opened its first commercial facility in 2025 and operates under HACCP and FSSC 22000 standards. Purallis holds kosher, halal, and non-GMO certification.
For more information, visit: www.brevel.co.il
Digital issue: Please click here for more information
