Cultivation of Wolffia globosa and its application in functional food development

This study assessed the biomass productivity, biochemical composition, and functional food potential of Wolffia globosa cultivated in four nutrient media: AB hydroponic solution, Chlorella medium, 16-16-16 fertilizer, and 16-16-16 supplemented with a vitamin B complex and FeSO4 (16-16-16-B). Cultivation was conducted for eight weeks, with biomass harvested weekly. Among the treatments, the Chlorella medium produced the greatest biomass yield (133.82–236.00 g FW tank⁻¹) and daily productivity (23.90–42.14 g FW m⁻² day⁻¹), significantly surpassing the other media (p < 0.05), followed by 16-16-16-B. Medium replenishment at four weeks initially enhanced growth but was later accompanied by a decline in biomass. Biochemical analysis indicated that the Chlorella medium yielded the highest protein content (46.10 ± 0.93% DW), while the AB medium supported the greatest chlorophyll-a (4.08 ± 0.00% DW) and carbohydrate levels (37.21 ± 1.12% DW); all differences among treatments were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Considering cost-effectiveness and nutritional value, the 16-16-16-B medium was optimal for cultivating W. globosa for food applications. Dried biomass from this medium was incorporated into fresh pasta and fried sweet potato balls, significantly enhancing chlorophyll-a, carotenoids, protein, fiber, and calcium contents. Sensory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale showed strong consumer acceptance even at higher inclusion levels. These findings highlight the role of nutrient-enriched media, particularly 16-16-16-B, in enhancing biomass yield and nutritional quality of W. globosa, affirming its potential as a functional food ingredient. Beyond nutritional enhancement, W. globosa-based foods exhibit immunomodulatory and anticancer potential through the antioxidant activity of pigments and other bioactive compounds.