Microalgae are a potential source for various valuable chemicals for commercial applications ranging from nutraceuticals to fuels. This review aims to focus on microalgal as preservative potential to food chain. The main compounds responsible for these properties, like carotenoids, phenolic compounds, antioxidant vitamins, sterols and polyunsaturated fatty acids are discussed because microalgae can be cultivated under controlled conditions to improve their production. We have listed several studies performed in recent years supporting the health benefits that most of these compounds can provide. Therefore, they may represent an excellent source of preservatives in food chain once their safety as a food supplement has been also confirmed.