# Countertop Algae-Growing Devices Spira Uses Light to Grow Algae at Home By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2019-11-11 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grow-algae References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2019/11/11/spira-bioreactor-algae-spirulina-food/) Spira is a countertop device that can be used to grow algae at home—specifically, nutrient-dense spirulina. The blue-green algae is exceptionally rich in protein, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants—so much so that [NASA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atmospheric) uses it as a key food source for astronauts. The [countertop system, a photobioreactor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/warp-core), uses light to cultivate algae so that it can be consumed on a daily basis. Spira is designed to produce about two tablespoons of fresh spirulina daily, which can easily be added to everything from smoothies and salads to a variety of sauces for a nutritional boost. Unlike commercially produced spirulina, which can have an off-putting taste, fresh spirulina is said to be tasteless. [University of Leeds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swansea-university) graduate Rob Russell designed Spira as part of a Product Design course and intends to continue to develop "living systems to address current social and environmental needs." ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.9/10 - Popularity: 98% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Countertop Algae-growing Devices:** Countertop devices that enable individuals to grow algae at home for nutritious purposes. - **Photobioreactor Technology:** The use of light in cultivating algae for daily consumption and nutrition. - **Fresh Spirulina Consumption:** The trend of incorporating fresh spirulina into everyday meals for its nutritional benefits. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Home Appliance Industry:** Opportunity for manufacturers to produce countertop devices that enable home algae cultivation for health-conscious individuals. - **Biotechnology Industry:** Disruptive innovation opportunity to develop new photobioreactor technology that efficiently grows algae for various industries such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. - **Health Food Industry:** Growing demand for fresh spirulina as a nutritional supplement and ingredient in a variety of food products. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Smart Spirulina Farming Facilities](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/edible-algae-cultivation-facility.md) - [Modern Kitchen Sprouting Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sproutypod.md) - [Carbon-Negative Spirulina Supplements](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/icelandic-ultra-spirulina.md) - [Algae-Powered Air Purifiers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/algenair-aerium.md) - [Intelligent Microgreens Appliances](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/autosprout.md) - [Edible Frozen Microalgae](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frozen-spirulina-cubes.md) - [Blue Spirulina-Based Drinks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blue-spirulina-drink.md) - [Drinking Water Home Appliances](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atmospheric.md) - [Compact Countertop Hydroponic Planters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hydroponic-indoor-garden.md)