All About: Algal Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable in a healthy diet and consist of the fatty acids ALA, EPA, and DHA. ALA is found in plant-based foods, while EPA and DHA are found in animal-based foods. Although ALA is present in plant-based foods, it is important for vegetarians or vegans to pay extra attention to their Omega-3 intake and consider supplementing with algal oil. We explain why.
What is Algal Oil?
Algal oil contains Omega-3 derived from Schizochytriumsp., a microalga that naturally occurs in the South Pacific Ocean and produces an oil rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Many people use fish (oil) to supplement their diet with the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). What most people do not know is that fish do not produce DHA and EPA themselves, but actually obtain it by consuming algae.
The Benefits of Algal Oil
A major advantage of obtaining EPA and DHA from algae is that the Omega-3 is sourced directly from the origin. Algal oil is one of the few natural sources that provides both DHA and EPA. Currently, the majority of EPA and DHA products available on the market still come from fish, but there are also more sustainable alternatives available, such as algal oil. The algae are cultivated in sterile fermenters under controlled conditions. This ensures there is no contamination from the ocean, and the algal oil is free from impurities such as heavy metals (including mercury), dioxins, and PCBs, which can be present in unfiltered fish oil. Another benefit is that algal oil has no, or a less pronounced, fishy taste and smell. Algal oil is 100% plant-based and is therefore an excellent alternative for vegetarians and vegans instead of fish oil.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids DHA and EPA
DHA and EPA are polyunsaturated fatty acids found in animal-based foods such as oily fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. Together with ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), they fall under the Omega-3 fatty acids. ALA is considered an essential fatty acid because our body cannot produce this fatty acid itself. ALA is found in plant-based foods such as flaxseed, chia seeds, pistachios, hemp seeds, and walnuts. ALA can be converted by our body into EPA and DHA. However, this conversion from ALA to EPA and DHA by the body is very inefficient, making the intake of 'ready-made' EPA and DHA desirable to benefit from their health effects. And these benefits are significant. Together, EPA and DHA contribute positively to the normal functioning of the heart with a daily intake of at least 250 mg. DHA is an important building block for the brain and also plays a role in brain function. These positive effects are obtained with a daily intake of at least 250 mg DHA.Furthermore, DHA is beneficial for vision; at least 250 mg DHA per day supports eye health, plays a role in the functioning of the retina, and helps maintain sharp vision. In short, these fatty acids are indispensable in our diet!
Written by: Noëlle van Seggelen
