Currently, algae are actively processed to produce polysaccharides that are unique in structure and properties (al-ginic acids, agar-agar, furcellaran, carrageenans, etc.). In addition, the complex processing of algae produces other valuable components of biomass, which include polysaccharides – laminarans and fucoidans and low-molecular metabolites – free amino acids, polyphenols, iodine-containing compounds, vitamins, lipids. All these substances are of interest for practical use as biologically active compounds, which are widely used in the food industry, biotechnology and medicine. Algae are sources of protein and microelements that are little used in world practice. Artificial cultivation of certain types of algae in the future can become a profitable business, especially in conditions of increased demand for environmentally friendly, in particular, protein products of plant origin. Algae, due to their habitat, can use carbon dioxide and nutrients more efficiently than terrestrial plants, resulting in increased growth rates. Algae are more resistant to the negative effects of the environment, which simplifies the conditions for their cultivation and collection for the production of biomass, which can be used as food and for the production of biofuel, food additives and in cosmetology. The key stage that determines the efficiency of algae processing to obtain biologically active compounds is extraction. Systematization of extraction methods known in the literature and their technical support allows us to conclude that in order to intensify mass transfer processes when extracting raw materials of plant origin, in particular algae, it is advisable to use the effect of ultrasonic radiation on the extraction mixture (raw materials and extractant).