Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: 18 September 2026.
Chlorella and spirulina are often mentioned in the same breath, but they are two fundamentally different organisms with complementary nutritional profiles. Chlorella — a true green alga with biologically active B12 and the highest chlorophyll content. Spirulina — a cyanobacterium with phycocyanin and an exceptionally high protein content. At Plenthera you will find the combi as Big Food Chlorella-Spirulina Tabletten Raw & Bio: BCW chlorella and certified spirulina pressed together in one tablet, also as a value pack. For those who want the complete algae profile without managing two separate products.
Which pack suits you?
| Pack | Best for |
|---|---|
| 500 g (1000 tablets) | Getting started, 1-2 months of daily use |
| 3×500 g — special offer | Regular users, better value per tablet |
| 4×500 g — 3+1 free | Households or high dosage, lowest price per tablet |
What is a chlorella + spirulina combi?
A chlorella + spirulina combi formula combines two microalgae — chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris/sorokiniana, a true green alga) and spirulina (Arthrospira platensis, a cyanobacterium). The algae complement each other: chlorella provides chlorophyll and B12, spirulina provides phycocyanin and protein.
The logic behind a combi formula is that chlorella and spirulina have different strengths. Chlorella, a true green alga, has the highest chlorophyll content of all known foods plus biologically active vitamin B12 — unique among plant sources. Spirulina, technically a cyanobacterium, provides the most protein per gram (55-70% dry weight), has phycocyanin as a blue pigment with antioxidant research, and is rich in iron and B vitamins. Together they provide a broader nutritional spectrum than each separately.
For those considering the combi, there are two points of attention. First: always choose broken cell wall (BCW) chlorella. The hard cell wall of chlorella must be broken mechanically or enzymatically for absorption — a combi with non-BCW chlorella lets the chlorella component pass through the gastrointestinal tract largely unprocessed. Second: the spirulina component must be tested for microcystins (cyanotoxins) and heavy metals — premium brands publish test reports. The NVWA (Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority) points to the importance of quality control with algae supplements.
The typical dosage of a combi is 3-10 grams per day, or 6-20 tablets of 500 mg. Many users find the combi more practical than two separate products — one tub, one routine. Also see our chlorella category and spirulina category for the individual products with more in-depth explanation.
Science, EFSA status and quality
Two components of the combi have authorised EFSA claims, applicable when the thresholds per daily dose are reached. For iron (at least 15% RI): "Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue" and "Iron contributes to the normal function of the immune system". For protein (at least 12% of the energy from protein): "Protein contributes to a growth in muscle mass".
Clinical research specifically into combi formulas is limited — mostly extrapolation from research on the individual algae. For those who want to supplement in the most evidence-based way: use individual chlorella and spirulina with proven quality markers.
We make no literal claims about effects specific to the combi.
What do chlorella and spirulina each contribute?
Chlorella provides: The highest chlorophyll content of all foods (~140 mg/5 g). Biologically active B12 — unique among plant sources, in variable amounts. A cellulose cell wall with binding properties. Carotenoids and vitamin K.
Spirulina provides: The highest protein content (55-70% dry). Phycocyanin (blue antioxidant pigment protein). High in iron. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Beta-carotene.
Together they provide: A complete amino acid profile, chlorophyll and phycocyanin, iron, B vitamins, minerals — a wholefood superfood stack without two separate products.
Ratio: Typically 50/50. For a chlorophyll focus, 60/40 in favour of chlorella. For a protein focus, 60/40 in favour of spirulina.
The chlorella + spirulina combi at Plenthera
Big Food Chlorella-Spirulina Tabletten Raw & Bio — 500 g (1000 tablets)
Pressed 500 mg tablets without binders — 100% pure algae, raw and organic. Broken cell wall (BCW) chlorella and spirulina together in one tablet. Practical on the go and for those who do not want to taste the green flavour.
Value packs: 3×500 g special offer and 4×500 g (3+1 free)
The same tablets in a multipack for regular users. With daily use of 10-20 tablets, a tub of 1000 lasts about 2-3 months; the 3+1 pack is the best value per tablet.
Would you rather dose chlorella or spirulina separately or as a powder? Then have a look at our chlorella category and spirulina category.
How do you use a chlorella + spirulina combi?
A simple basic approach to the combi:
- Start with a low dosage — 6-10 tablets (3-5 g) per day.
- Build up gradually to 14-20 tablets (7-10 g) per day for broad supplementation.
- Take the tablets with a large glass of water; if you do not want to taste them, they are easiest to swallow in portions of 5.
- For sport: 5-10 g before or after training.
- With a meal for optimal absorption; with a sensitive stomach, always with food.
- For B12 certainty in vegans: combine with a methylcobalamin supplement.
Myths and misconceptions about the chlorella + spirulina combi
Myth 1: "A combi always works better than individual algae."
Not automatically. For specific goals, individual products can be more effective — more chlorophyll from chlorella alone, more protein from spirulina alone. A combi is practical for a broad approach.
Myth 2: "Combi formulas cannot contain broken cell wall chlorella."
Incorrect. Premium combi formulas specifically use BCW chlorella. Ask for the BCW statement on the label.
Myth 3: "The B12 in a combi makes a vegan B12 supplement unnecessary."
For certainty in vegans, a dedicated methylcobalamin supplement is still recommended. Chlorella B12 is genuine, but the dosage and consistency are variable.
Myth 4: "Spirulina + chlorella detox each other."
A "mutually reinforcing detox effect" has not been scientifically demonstrated. Both algae are researched individually for mineral-binding properties, nothing more.
Combining the Chlorella + Spirulina Combi with other supplements
The chlorella + spirulina combi fits into a wholefood greens stack. Popular combinations:
- Vitamin B12 methylcobalamin: for certainty in vegans.
- Vitamin C: vitamin C increases iron absorption.
- Moringa: green powder cluster.
- Maca: superfood cluster.
- Vegan Protein: for those with a protein focus.
- Multivitamin: for broad coverage.
Frequently asked questions
What is a chlorella + spirulina combi?
A combination supplement of two microalgae — chlorella and spirulina together.
Why chlorella and spirulina together?
Complementary profiles — chlorella provides chlorophyll and B12, spirulina provides phycocyanin and protein.
How much chlorella + spirulina per day?
3-10 grams, or 6-20 tablets of 500 mg.
What is the best ratio?
Typically 50/50. For a chlorophyll focus: more chlorella. For a protein focus: more spirulina.
Does a combi work better than individual algae?
More practical for a broad approach. For specific goals, individual products can be more effective.
Vegan B12 — does the combi work?
Chlorella B12 is genuine but variable; for certainty, a methylcobalamin supplement remains recommended.
Which chlorella + spirulina combi is the best?
Broken cell wall chlorella, organic certification, a microcystin test, traceable origin.
Does a chlorella + spirulina combi have side effects?
At high dosages, stomach complaints or nausea are possible. Build up gradually.
When should you take chlorella + spirulina?
With a meal; the timing is flexible. Sport: before or after training.
A combi for sport?
Logical for wholefood protein and minerals. Not as the main protein source — vegan protein is more effective for that.
Sources
- EFSA Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — claims for the components iron and protein.
- Karkos PD. et al., "Spirulina in clinical practice", Evid Based Complement Alternat Med (2011).
- Merchant RE. & Andre CA., "A review of recent clinical trials of Chlorella pyrenoidosa", Altern Ther Health Med (2001).
- Watanabe F. et al., "Vitamin B12 sources for vegetarians", Nutrients (2014).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. The Chlorella + Spirulina Combi is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.