7,700 years ago, there was a volcanic eruption of 42 times the strength of the eruption of St. Helen. When the volcano collapsed, lakes were formed and volcanic ash settled at the bottom of these new craters. The waters of Klamath lake, saturated with volcanic ash which was incredible high in minerals, became the perfect environment for a Blue-Green algae richer in nutritional content than any other on earth. Here's where the Blue-Green Algae we use, so unique in its nutritional saturation, differs from others: most cultivators of blue green algae would never think to add the minerals that are found in this volcanic ash to their growing process. Additionally, this form of Blue-Green  Algae must survive the harsh Oregon winters, thus selecting the most hardy and healthy organisms.

Why is Blue-Green Algae good for us?
Blue-Green Algae from Klamath lake contains 60% high quality protein (by weight more than any other food!) with an amino acid profile that is close to the needs of the human body. Klamath Lake algae also contains all of the vitamins and minerals needed by the body, including invaluable trace minerals. It is also the highest vegetable source of vitamin B12 - often deficient in vegan and vegetarian diets. It is believed that the B12 found in Klamath Lake algae is totally usable by the body compared to B12 derived from Spirulina. This algae contains a host of pigments currently the focus of research into new treatments for cell abnormality inclulding carotenoids, phycobilins, and phycocyanins. Klamath Lake Algae is remarkably high in both cis and trans forms of beta carotene (provitamin A) - a proven immunity booster and powerful antioxidant. It also contains 16 other carotenoids. It has the highest concentration of chlorophyll of any food, and is enzyme active, allowing for maximum absorption at no cost to the body's own enzyme reserve. Klamath Lake Blue-Green Algae consists of a glycolipoprotein complex, making it easy to digest - unlike the cellulose found around most other plant cells. The algae contains the building blocks of neuropeptides, thereby helping to nourish nerve cells and enhance brain activity. Klamath Lake algae is a source of nucleic and fatty acids, and its carbohydrates and proteins are in forms that are easy for the body to assimilate and metabolize. The algae is strongly alkalizing - it counteracts the acidity of modern diets, and contains only 4.2 calories per gram.

Why do you put Blue-Green Algae in Gnosis Chocolate?
My vision with Gnosis Chocolate is to bring the most healthy chocolate possible to the market. The cacao itself contains more magnesium, antioxidants, and many other vitamins and minerals than any other food on earth, plus neurotransmitters that stimulate our brains. So pure chocolate is easily classified as a Super Food! But since most Americans tend to have a diet that is subpar to say the least (I know from my experience with my clients as a Holistic Health Counselor), I wanted to enrich the chocolate bars with as many other Super Foods as possible! Goji berries, Algae, Ginseng, and so on... This way, even kids who won't eat broccoli can get a great portion of their greens by eating chocolate!!! And you'd be surprised by the adults who won't eat their greens either....

The other reason why I use Klamath Lake algae is that I want to support wild, organic, amazing super foods and the people that harvest them.

If, for any reason, you'd like us to make chocolate without the algae, we are more than happy to make Custom Chocolate for you! Just call us at 646.688.5549 or email me directly at vanessa@gnosischocolate.com.

Last updated on July 31, 2012 by Vanessa Barg