Chlorella: What It Is and How to Use It
Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater green algae sold as a nutrient-dense supplement, prized for its protein, iron, and rich chlorophyll content. It gets its deep green color from chlorophyll, the same pigment that gives leafy greens their hue. You'll find chlorella in the bulk herb and superfood section at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA 94805, where shoppers pick it up for smoothies and green drink blends.
Available in Bulk
We carry chlorella in our bulk herb section so you can grab exactly the amount you want, from a spoonful to a full bag. Just scoop what you need into a bag or container, and our staff can help you find it in the bins or answer your questions while you shop.
What We Carry
Look for chlorella as a fine, dark-green powder in our bulk section. Because chlorella is a microscopic algae rather than a leafy plant, it is sold only in powdered form, not as a cut-and-sifted herb. We stock powder with the cell wall broken down, which makes its nutrients more accessible to digestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does chlorella taste like?
Chlorella has a mild, grassy, slightly earthy flavor — gentler than many green powders, but still distinctly "green." That's why most people stir it into juice or smoothies rather than drinking it plain.
Is chlorella the same as spirulina?
Not quite. Both are green algae sold as supplements, but chlorella is a single-celled freshwater algae while spirulina is a blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). They have slightly different nutrient profiles — for instance, chlorella is often noted for its iron content — and some shoppers enjoy using the two together.
How do people usually use chlorella powder?
Most commonly, chlorella powder is stirred into juice, water, or smoothies for a nutrient boost. Some people also sprinkle it over foods like salads or grain bowls. Because its natural cell wall is difficult for humans to digest, look for chlorella described as having a broken or cracked cell wall for better nutrient availability.
What nutrients does chlorella contain?
According to product labels registered in the U.S. National Institutes of Health's Dietary Supplement Label Database, chlorella is commonly marketed as a source of protein, iron, vitamin B12, and chlorophyll. As with any supplement, consider talking with a qualified health professional before making it a regular part of your routine.
Visit Us
You'll find chlorella powder in the bulk section at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond — open Mon–Fri 9 AM–7 PM, Sat 9 AM–6 PM, Sun 10 AM–5 PM. Our staff are happy to help you find it or talk through your options.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional about any health questions.