Comparison of Omega-3 from Algal and from Fish Oil

SVK Herbal

Comparison of Omega-3 from Seaweed (Algal Omega-3) and Omega-3 from Fish Oil: Outstanding Benefits of Omega-3 from Algae

Omega-3 is a group of unsaturated fatty acids that play an important role in overall health, especially DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid). The two main sources of Omega-3 are fish oil and algae oil. Although fish oil has been used for a long time, Omega-3 from seaweed is becoming increasingly popular due to its nutritional, environmental, and sustainability advantages. Below are the reasons that prove Omega-3 from algae is better than Omega-3 from fish.

1. Pure origin and does not contain impurities

One of the main advantages of Omega-3 from seaweed over Omega-3 from fish oil is its level of purity and safety. Marine fish, especially fish species high in the food chain, often accumulate environmental pollutants such as:

Heavy metals (mercury): Studies show that many fish species contain high levels of mercury, a toxin that is harmful to the nervous system, especially for pregnant women and young children. Omega-3s from algae, on the other hand, do not contain mercury, as the algae are grown in a controlled environment.
Dioxins và PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls): These substances are industrial pollutants that can persist in the marine environment for decades and easily accumulate in fish. Omega-3 from algae is not exposed to these sources of pollution, so it is safer for health.

2. Sustainability and environmental friendliness

The exploitation of marine fish for fish oil production is causing great pressure on ocean ecosystems. According to reports from Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), overfishing is seriously threatening marine fish stocks, degrading natural ecosystems and affecting biodiversity. Meanwhile:

Seaweed is a renewable source: Seaweed can be grown on a large scale in a controlled environment without harming the marine environment. The process of producing Omega-3 from algae does not put pressure on natural resources, contributing to protecting marine ecology.
Reduce carbon emissions: The fish oil industry not only depletes fish stocks, but also contributes to carbon emissions through fishing and processing. Seaweed, on the other hand, does not require long-distance fishing or transportation, helping to reduce emissions and impact on climate change.

3. Original source of Omega-3 and high absorption efficiency

Fish oil contains EPA and DHA thanks to fish eating algae in their natural environment. Therefore, when using Omega-3 from algae, we are directly accessing the source of Omega-3 without going through the intermediate food chain. This offers several advantages:

High biological efficiency: Omega-3 from algae is a direct source and does not need to undergo complex metabolism, so the human body can absorb it more easily. DHA and EPA in algal oil are also produced as triglycerides or phospholipids, which improves absorption compared to the ethyl ester form commonly found in fish oil.
Preserve nutritional value: Fish oil can rapidly oxidize during processing and storage, leading to some loss of nutritional value. In contrast, Omega-3 from algae is often more stable due to a closed production process and better quality control.

4. Suitable for more audiences

Another advantage of algae-based Omega-3 over fish oil is its suitability for many groups of people, including:

Vegetarians and vegans: Omega-3 from algae is of plant origin, completely suitable for vegetarians or vegans. In contrast, fish oil is of animal origin and cannot be used by people following a strict diet.
Safe for pregnant women and children: Because it does not contain impurities such as mercury or PCBs, Omega-3 from algae is especially safe for sensitive subjects such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women and young children. Health authorities, incl American Pregnancy Association, recommends using Omega-3 from algae for pregnant women to ensure safety.

5. Higher DHA content

Another advantage of Omega-3 from algae is that the DHA content is often higher than that of fish oil. DHA plays an essential role in developing and maintaining the function of the brain, nervous system and eyes. Some studies show that algae-based Omega-3 products may contain up to 40-50% DHA, while fish oil has a lower percentage, usually ranging from 12-30%.

Optimized for the brain and eyes: DHA is the main component in cell membranes of the brain and retina, especially important in the development of infants and the maintenance of neurological function in adults. Providing Omega-3 from algae with higher DHA content can better support brain and eye development, especially during critical periods such as pregnancy, infancy and old age.

6. Less risk of odor and taste

A common problem with fish oil is fishy smell and an unpleasant taste after use, making it difficult for some people to supplement Omega-3 regularly. Fish oil can also cause symptoms fishy burp, an unpleasant side effect. Omega-3 from algae, on the other hand, usually does not have an unpleasant taste, is easier to use and is suitable for people who are sensitive to odors.

7. Consistency in Omega-3 content

Fish oil, depending on natural sources and fishing conditions, can have large fluctuations in DHA and EPA content between production batches. Meanwhile, Omega-3 from algae is produced in a controlled environment, ensuring consistency in product content and quality.

Omega-3 from algae (Algal Omega-3) brings many superior benefits compared to Omega-3 from fish oil, from purity, absorption efficiency, to sustainability and safety for health. In particular, for people with a high need for DHA such as pregnant women, children, the elderly and those who want to protect brain, eye, and cardiovascular health, Omega-3 from algae is the choice. optimal.

References:

The Lancet Neurology. “DHA and Brain Development: The Critical Periods.” 2020.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “Global Fisheries and Sustainability Report.” 2021.
American Pregnancy Association. “Algal Omega-3: A Safe Source for Pregnant Women.” 2019.
Journal of the American College of Nutrition. “Comparative Absorption of Algal vs. Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids.” 2020.
The New England Journal of Medicine. “Environmental Contaminants in Fish Oil Supplements.” 2018.
Archives of Ophthalmology. “DHA from Algal Oil in Vision Health.” 2020

1. Pure origin and does not contain impurities

2. Sustainability and environmental friendliness

3. Original source of Omega-3 and high absorption efficiency