For years, Erewhon has been a trendsetter in the health and wellness space, creating visually stunning and nutrient-packed beverages that have garnered a cult following. One of the most recognizable features of their iconic drinks is the striking, vibrant blue color, which comes from blue spirulina. However, unlike a single food coloring, Erewhon works with a variety of top-tier brands and formulations to achieve its distinctive palette and nutritional profile across different items.
E3 Live: The Original Blue Majik
One of the most well-known blue spirulina products associated with Erewhon is Blue Majik, a proprietary extract from the brand E3 Live. This ingredient is not a whole algae but a concentrated extract of phycocyanin, the specific antioxidant compound responsible for the algae's blue pigment. Erewhon features E3 Live's Blue Majik in several forms:
- In-house smoothie ingredients: Blue Majik is a key ingredient in popular menu items like the Coconut Cloud Smoothie, giving it its stunning shade.
- Bottled products: The Erewhon Blue Pearl Almond Milk explicitly lists 'Blue Majik spirulina extract' on its ingredients list, confirming its use in pre-packaged items.
- Retail products: Erewhon also sells E3 Live's Blue Majik in various formats, such as the Dry Stick and Powder, allowing customers to purchase the exact product used in the store's beverages.
Blue Majik is highly valued for its purity and potency, as E3 Live pioneered the phycocyanin extraction process. The product is a chemical-free extract that delivers the blue color without the potential 'algae-like' flavor sometimes associated with whole green spirulina powder.
KOS: A Luminous Organic Alternative
Another prominent blue spirulina brand that Erewhon features and sells is KOS. Their Organic Blue Spirulina Powder is available for purchase on Erewhon's website, indicating it's another source for the retailer's blue-colored products.
- Smoothie recipes: While official Erewhon smoothie recipes might not always name a specific brand, copycat recipes posted online often mention using KOS blue spirulina to achieve similar results, suggesting it's a popular choice for in-house preparation.
- Superfood addition: KOS markets its blue spirulina as a tasteless, luminous ingredient perfect for adding a nutritional boost to smoothies and bowls.
A Comparison of E3 Live Blue Majik vs. KOS Organic Blue Spirulina
Understanding the differences between these two products can help consumers choose the right one for their needs, whether recreating an Erewhon smoothie or adding it to other recipes.
| Feature | E3 Live's Blue Majik | KOS Organic Blue Spirulina |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Proprietary phycocyanin extract from Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) | Organic spirulina powder, phycocyanin extract |
| Erewhon Context | Used in finished products like the Blue Pearl Almond Milk and likely smoothies; sold as an individual product | Sold as an individual product on the website and likely used in bars/smoothies |
| Purity Claim | Guaranteed >40% phycocyanin; chemically free extract | Certified organic; promoted as a high-quality, functional ingredient |
| Focus | Concentrated phycocyanin for vibrant color and anti-inflammatory properties | Organic whole-plant benefits combined with the extracted phycocyanin |
| Availability | In-store products, online retail | Online retail at Erewhon |
Erewhon Products Containing Blue Spirulina
The vibrant blue pigment is a staple in many of Erewhon's products beyond just the most famous smoothies. Here are a few notable items that utilize blue spirulina:
- Coconut Cloud Smoothie: This fan-favorite relies on blue spirulina for its striking tropical look and superfood benefits.
- Blue Pearl Almond Milk: A pre-packaged, superfood-infused almond milk that lists both Blue Majik extract and organic blue spirulina powder.
- Neptune Blue Sea Moss Gel: A blend of sea moss, lime, and spirulina extract provides a nutrient-dense tonic.
- Goddess Smoothie: This blend of ingredients, including almond milk, chlorella, and hemp seeds, also contains spirulina.
- Heavy Metal Detox Smoothie: Features spirulina powder alongside wild blueberries and cilantro for a robust detoxifying effect.
Recreating the Blue Spirulina Magic at Home
With Erewhon's blue spirulina providers identified, enthusiasts can easily purchase the ingredients to make their own version of the famous smoothies. To start your journey, pick up E3 Live Blue Majik or KOS Organic Blue Spirulina from Erewhon's site or other retailers.
Here are some popular ways to use your blue spirulina at home:
- Smoothies and Smoothie Bowls: Add a teaspoon to your morning smoothie recipe. For the Coconut Cloud Smoothie, blend blue spirulina with pineapple, banana, avocado, and coconut cream.
- Blue Lattes: Whisk the powder into a cup of hot or cold plant-based milk for a beautiful, nutrient-rich beverage.
- Yogurt and Oatmeal: Swirl a small amount into yogurt or overnight oats for a colorful and healthful breakfast.
- Baking and Dessert: Add blue spirulina to pancake or waffle batter, or use it to create natural food coloring for frosting or raw treats.
- Protein Shakes: Mix it into your favorite post-workout protein shake to enhance its antioxidant profile.
Conclusion
So, what blue spirulina does Erewhon use? The answer is not just one brand, but a careful selection of high-quality products, most notably E3 Live's Blue Majik and KOS Organic Blue Spirulina. This dual-sourcing approach allows them to achieve their signature vibrant hues while offering customers the same premium ingredients to take home. By exploring these trusted brands, you can recreate the famous Erewhon experience and enjoy the nutritional benefits of this potent superfood in your own kitchen.
For more information on the original blue spirulina extract, visit the official Blue Majik page: E3Live's official Blue Majik page