Almost every guest who sees our Blue Pineapple smoothie for the first time asks the same thing: "How is that blue?" The answer isn't a trick or artificial coloring, it's blue spirulina. In this post, we explain exactly what it is, what benefits it offers, whether there are any risks, and how it fits into our smoothie.
What is blue spirulina?
Blue spirulina is the name for phycocyanin, a natural blue pigment extracted from spirulina, a type of blue-green algae grown in controlled, clean conditions. While regular (green) spirulina is known for its somewhat strong "algae" taste, the blue variant has a milder flavor and gives that signature turquoise-blue color, completely naturally, with no artificial dyes.
Thanks to that color and mild taste, blue spirulina has become a popular ingredient in smoothies, bowls, and various drinks in recent years.
Benefits of blue spirulina
Antioxidants: phycocyanin is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and oxidative stress in cells.
Anti-inflammatory properties: research suggests phycocyanin may help reduce inflammatory processes in the body.
Immune support: combined with vitamins C, E, and B6 (which the smoothie also delivers through fruit), it supports the production of white blood cells.
Nutritional value: spirulina contains protein, iron, and vitamins B12, A, E, and K, adding to the overall nutritional profile of the drink.
Possible heart benefits: some studies (mostly in animals) link phycocyanin to support for healthy cholesterol levels, though more research in humans is needed to confirm this.
It's worth staying realistic here: much of this research has been done in lab or animal settings, not in large human studies. Blue spirulina isn't a "miracle cure", but it is a quality, nutrient-dense ingredient that makes sense as part of a balanced diet.
Are there risks? What to watch out for
As with any superfood, the truth sits somewhere between the hype and the panic. The main risks aren't really about spirulina itself — they're about where it comes from:
Contamination from poorly controlled growing conditions. Spirulina grown in uncontrolled, polluted water can contain heavy metals or toxins (microcystins). This is a risk with cheap, unverified sources, not with spirulina grown in controlled, certified conditions.
Autoimmune conditions. Because of its effect on the immune system, people with autoimmune conditions (lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis) should be cautious.
Blood-thinning medication. Spirulina may have a mild effect on blood clotting, so caution is needed for people on such treatment.
Phenylketonuria (PKU). Spirulina contains phenylalanine, so people with PKU should avoid it.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. There isn't enough research to confirm safety with certainty in these cases, so it's best to check with a doctor first.
High doses. At large, concentrated doses (the kind taken as a standalone powder or tablet supplement), digestive discomfort can occur.
One important distinction worth highlighting: the amount of blue spirulina in a smoothie is far smaller than the doses used in standalone supplements. Here, it's used as an ingredient that adds color and a nutritional boost, not as high-dose supplementation. For a healthy adult without the conditions listed above, it's a safe and tasty thing to enjoy as part of breakfast.
If you fall into one of the risk groups mentioned, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to check with your doctor before consuming it.
Why blue spirulina is in our Blue Pineapple smoothie
At Jo & The Sisters Morning Club, ingredients aren't chosen at random, our menu is developed together with a professional nutritionist, and we source exclusively from trusted suppliers. Blue spirulina is no exception: we use it precisely because it adds natural color and a nutritional boost, without compromising on quality.
Blue Pineapple is our newest smoothie, handmade with pineapple, banana, coconut water, coconut yogurt, lemon, ginger, and blue spirulina.
One 450ml cup delivers:
292 kcal
4.9g protein
4.9g fiber
Over 70% of your daily recommended vitamin C
50% of your daily iron needs
Naturally occurring sugars only, nothing added
The result is a drink that looks like a treat and works like a real breakfast.
Try Blue Pineapple in Split and Zagreb
Blue Pineapple is now available at all Jo & The Sisters Morning Club locations in Split and Zagreb. Whether you grab it on the way to work or enjoy it on a slower weekend morning, now you also know why it's that beautiful shade of blue.