A Legacy Rooted in Healing

Our story begins with one man’s search for hope. In the aftermath of World War II, our founder, Mr. Hideo Nakayama, faced serious health complications. At just 51 years old, doctors told him he had only a few years left to live. But a chance introduction to chlorella, a powerful freshwater algae, changed everything.

His mission: make the healing power of chlorella accessible to everyone.

OUR MISSION

To support healthier lives through the daily use of clean, nutrient-rich chlorella

1960s - The Origin of a Wellness Legacy

From Personal Healing to Global Mission

Mr. Hideo Nakayama experienced the powerful health benefits of chlorella, which inspired a lifelong mission. In December 1969, he founded Heian Chlorella Jeffcy Co., Ltd. in Kyoto with a capital of 3 million yen, marking the beginning of Sun Chlorella’s story—a family-owned company rooted in gratitude and innovation.

1970s – Product Launches & Breakthroughs

Bringing Chlorella to the World

In 1971, the company was renamed Chlorella Sun and launched its first Sun Chlorella product. By 1976, major scientific milestones were achieved: chlorella cell walls were first crushed to enhance absorption, CGF was extracted, and Sun Chlorella A, the brand’s signature product, was officially released.

1980s – Global Expansion & Patents

Innovation Meets International Growth

In 1980, the company became Sun Chlorella Corporation and, the following year, patented its cell wall disruption technology. Between 1982 and 1986, Sun Chlorella USA was founded in Los Angeles, research on eleuthero began in Hokkaido, and Sun Eleuthero Tablets launched. By 1989, a dedicated domestic sales firm was established to support Japan’s growing demand.

Early 2000s – International Certifications & Facilities

Building Trust and Global Reach

In 2001, Sun Chlorella inaugurated its current Kyoto headquarters and launched Sun Chlorella Agaricus. By 2002, Sun Chlorella A was officially certified as a health food in China. Between 2003 and 2004, the brand celebrated 20 years in the U.S. and opened a new U.S. building in Los Angeles.

2010s – Organic Evolution & New Leadership

Organic Certifications, New Products, and a New Generation

The 2010s were marked by expansion and innovation. Sun Chlorella USA celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2013. In 2016, the brand launched Astarella Cream and Sun Chlorella A Powder (Non-GMO and Gluten-Free), while Mr. Futoshi Nakayama, grandson of the founder, became President and CEO. Organic Sun Eleuthero was introduced in Japan in 2017, followed by the launch of NSF-Certified Sun Chlorella A Powder in Japan in 2018.

2019 – A Golden Milestone

50 Years of Science, Family, and Wellness

In December 2019, Sun Chlorella celebrated its 50th anniversary—a testament to five decades of scientific integrity, global impact, and dedication to natural health.

2020 – Wellness Hospitality

A New Way to Experience Chlorella

In July 2020, Sun Chlorella opened the RESI STAY HOTEL SUN CHLORELLA, offering a wellness-inspired lodging experience that blends modern comfort with the company’s holistic health philosophy.

Chlorella seed stock is grown on an agar slant under optimal light and temperature conditions to initiate cultivation.

Chlorella from indoor flasks is moved to outdoor pools, where it grows under sunlight and is gradually transferred to larger pools as density increases

Once chlorella reaches the target concentration, it is harvested, filtered to remove impurities, centrifugally dehydrated, thoroughly washed, and re-filtered before final concentration.

Only tablets that pass all quality inspections are sealed in aluminum packs, completing the final product, Sun Chlorella A.

Chlorella from slant culture is transferred to flasks with liquid medium and cultivated with light and CO₂-enriched air, then scaled up in larger flasks as it grows.

From Our Story to Your Shelf

Crafted with Purpose. Backed by Science. Made for You.

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What is Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF)

Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) is a unique, nutrient-rich extract derived from Chlorella that supports cell regeneration, immune function, and overall vitality. Found only in Chlorella, CGF contains nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), peptides, and essential nutrients that help repair and promote healthy cell growth. This makes it an ideal supplement for recovery, energy, and overall well-being. Learn how CGF can benefit your health.

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Corporate Social Responsibility

Here at Sun Chlorella USA, we are more than just a business. Our founder, Mr. Hideo Nakayama, dedicated his life to providing the wealth of chlorella to as many people as he could, and his mission to give back to the community is embedded in the core goals of our company today. We are dedicated to providing health and quality nourishment to mankind, whether it’s through healing animals, children, adults or seniors.

Corporate social responsibility is an integral part of Sun Chlorella’s values and mission, and we support non-profit organizations that promote vitality and wellness through volunteering, in-kind donations, and financial support. Currently, we assist The Gentle Barn, an animal rescue organization, and The Midnight Mission, a homeless rehabilitation program.

Though what we do is just a drop in the bucket compared to what these organizations do, we are so thrilled to be able to help them thrive. When you purchase from Sun Chlorella USA, you not only help improve your health, but you also help us give back to improve the health and lives of those in need.

The Gentle Barn

The Gentle Barn provides a safe habitat for abused and neglected animals and also offers a powerful program that helps at-risk youth and special needs children. Since 2012, our support has helped The Gentle Barn heal rescued animals in the Sun Chlorella Healing Center, an area designated for intensive animal care.

Sun Chlorella also provides financial donations to support day-to-day activities and in-kind donations of Sun Chlorella Powder and Sun Pet Treats for all of the animals to eat daily so that they can heal and recover with the power of nature’s perfect superfood, chlorella. Click below to watch a video about our contribution to The Gentle Barn healing centers in the US.

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