CEST2025

This study explores the cultivation of the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) in food waste (FW) and anaerobic digestion sludge (ADS) as alternative nutrient media, aligned with principles of the circular economy. Four experimental trials were conducted to assess acclimatization, growth potential, and nutrient removal efficiency. Experiments tested acclimated and non-acclimated cultures under varying concentrations of FW and combinations with ADS. Key environmental parameters such as pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and phosphate (PO₄³⁻) levels were monitored. Lipid content was quantified in harvested biomass using the Folch method and compared across substrates and drying methods. Results demonstrated that A. platensis can adapt and grow effectively in 10% diluted FW, achieving higher growth rates and nutrient uptake when acclimatized. Lipid yields ranged between 13–20%, indicating promising bioresource potential. The findings support the integration of waste valorization with microalgal biotechnology for sustainable biomass production.