Can algal oil stop overfishing?

You may already know that omega-3 is good for your health: EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function* and DHA is good for the brain*. But did you know that the growing demand for omega-3 supplements is also impacting 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 nearly a third of all fish stocks are overfished. More fish are being caught than are being added.

Another 60% of stocks are fished at the maximum. If this continues, these stocks are also in danger of being overfished. The consequences are great: many fish species may become locally extinct and entire ecosystems will become unbalanced.

Omega-3 and fishing

Some of the world's 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 include a lot of bycatch: unwanted fish and other marine animals that are accidentally caught along with them.

While the demand for omega-3 supplements is growing (and understandably so, given the health benefits), the pressure on fish stocks is increasing. But there is good news: there is an alternative that doesn't tax 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 farmed micro-algae in controlled environments. No bycatch, no impact on wild fish stocks, and you get the same EPA and DHA your body needs. Your body may not even notice the difference, because omega-3 from algae works exactly the same as from fish.

What can you do yourself against overfishing?

Want to cover your omega-3 needs without contributing to overfishing? Algae oil is the most sustainable alternative because it requires no fish at all. It is grown in controlled environments, assuring you pure quality without contaminants from polluted oceans.

Do you live vegan or vegetarian? Then too, 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 normal heart function* and DHA is good for the brain*.

But you can also make sustainable choices when you choose fish oil. 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 when eating fish, try to choose consciously: alternate between fish species, don't eat fish every day, and try plant-based omega-3 sources such as walnuts and flaxseed. Be careful though: these contain ALA that your body does not convert as well to EPA and DHA.

In conclusion: 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 EFSA health claims. The beneficial effect for heart and brain function is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg EPA and DHA.