You may already know that omega-3 is good for your health: EPA and DHA contribute to the normal functioning of the heart* and DHA is good for the brain*. But did you know that the growing demand for omega-3 supplements also impacts our oceans? Fortunately, there is a sustainable alternative: algae oil .
The overfishing problem
Our oceans are under pressure. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, approximately 90 million tonnes of fish are taken from the sea annually. The World Wildlife Fund warns that nearly a third of all fish stocks are overfished. More fish are being caught than are being replenished.
Another 60% of fish stocks are being fished to the maximum. If this continues, these stocks are also at risk of becoming overfished. The consequences are significant: many fish species could become locally extinct and entire ecosystems could fall out of balance.
Omega-3 and fishing
A portion of the global fish catch is used for omega-3 production. Fatty fish, such as sardines, herring, and anchovies, are particularly caught for fish oil. The problem? These catches also involve a significant amount of bycatch: unwanted fish and other marine animals that are accidentally caught.
While the demand for omega-3 supplements is growing (and that is understandable, given the health benefits), the pressure on fish stocks is increasing. But there is good news: there is an alternative that does not burden our oceans.
Algae oil: straight to the source
Here comes the smart solution: algae oil. Fish do not produce omega-3 themselves. They obtain EPA and DHA by eating algae. By going directly to the source, we can obtain the same omega-3 fatty acids without catching fish.
Algae oil is made from specially cultivated microalgae in controlled environments. No bycatch, no impact on wild fish stocks, and you get the same EPA and DHA your body needs. Your body can't even tell the difference, because omega-3 from algae works exactly the same as from fish.
What can you do yourself to combat overfishing?
Do you want to meet your omega-3 needs without contributing to overfishing? Algae oil is the most sustainable alternative because it requires no fish at all. It is cultivated in controlled environments, ensuring pure quality free from contaminants from polluted oceans.
Are you vegan or vegetarian? Even then, algae oil is perfect, because it is 100% plant-based but contains the same EPA and DHA as fish oil. And most importantly? The effect is exactly the same. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal functioning of the heart* and DHA is good for the brain*.
But even if you choose fish oil, you can make sustainable choices. At Arctic Blue For example, we only use trimmings for our fish oil that would otherwise be thrown away. Many other brands use tiny fish that are actually food for dolphins and whales.
Always choose MSC-certified fish oil or algae oil. And try to make conscious choices when eating fish: alternate between types of fish, do not eat fish every day, and try plant-based omega-3 sources such as walnuts and flaxseed. Do note, however: these contain ALA, which your body converts less efficiently into EPA and DHA.
Finally: a sustainable future
The growing demand for omega-3 does not have to contribute to overfishing. By making smart choices, such as algae oil or fish oil from cuttings, you get the same health benefits and protect marine life. Arctic Blue we believe that health and sustainability can go hand in hand.
EFSA-approved health claims. The beneficial effect on heart and brain function is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg EPA and DHA.
