A number of super foods have been found to contain faecal bacteria

Health foods have grown more and more popular as consumer become more aware of what they are consuming.

People with specific diets, such as vegans and vegetarians, are often recommended to try algae supplements if they are lacking nutrients. 

However, an Irish university has found that a number of these super food powders actually contain faecal bacteria. 

A study of eight samples of algae supplements was carried out at NUI Galway.

The study included Spirulina, Chlorella and Super Greens brand supplements.  

The faecal matter bacteria was also found to be resistant to certain types of antibiotics, according to the study published in today's Irish Medical Journal. 

All eight samples were found to contain the organisms enterococci, enterobacteriaceae, and clostridium, which can cause things like urinary tract infections and diarrhoea.

The research was carried out by experts in medicine and microbiology.