You may already know that omega-3 is good for your health: EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart* and DHA is good for the brain*. But did you know that the growing demand for omega-3 supplements also has an impact on 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, about 90 million tons of fish are taken from the sea every year. The World Wildlife Fund warns that almost a third of all fish stocks are overfished. More fish is being caught than is being replenished.
Another 60% of fish stocks are fished at the maximum. If this continues, these stocks also risk becoming overfished. The consequences are significant: many fish species can become locally extinct and entire ecosystems become unbalanced.
Omega-3 and the fishing industry
Part of the global fish catch is used for omega-3 production. Especially oily fish such as sardines, herring and anchovies are caught for fish oil. The problem? These catches also involve a lot of bycatch: unwanted fish and other marine animals that are accidentally caught along.
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 get EPA and DHA by eating algae. By going directly to the source, we can get 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 cannot even tell the difference, because omega-3 from algae works exactly the same as from fish.
What can you do yourself against overfishing?
Do you want to cover your omega-3 needs without contributing to overfishing? Algae oil is the most sustainable alternative because it does not require any fish at all. It is cultivated in controlled environments, so you are assured of pure quality without contaminants from polluted oceans.
Do you live vegan or vegetarian? Then algae oil is perfect too, because it is 100% plant-based but contains the same EPA and DHA as fish oil. And the most important thing? The effect is exactly the same. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function 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 very small fish that are actually food for dolphins and whales.
Always choose MSC-certified fish oil or algae oil. And try to choose consciously when eating fish: alternate between fish species, do not eat fish every day, and try plant-based omega-3 sources such as walnuts and flaxseed. Do note: these contain ALA, which your body converts less well 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 trimmings, you get the same health benefits and protect marine life. At Arctic Blue we believe that health and sustainability can go hand in hand.
*Approved health claims from the EFSA. The beneficial effect for heart and brain function is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA.
