Heart Healthy Algae Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids are the healthy fats that support heart health. Fish oil derived from wild-caught fish stocks, a popular source of omega-3s, is in limited supply as demand for aquaculture products containing these healthy fats increases. The shortage has created the need to identify alternative sources of omega-3 lipids for use in aquaculture. Vegetable oils are insufficient in providing the nutritional requirements for normal growth and well-being of fish and do not provide the heart-healthy nutrients valued by seafood consumers.

ARS researchers in the Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit in Aberdeen, ID, and Bozeman, MT, as well as research collaborators from around the U.S., demonstrated that oils from algae can produce the necessary omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils. These findings provide an alternative lipid source that will increase the capacity for raising high-quality fish aquaculture products and meeting the nutritional needs of seafood consumers.

Related Information

Research Project: Trout-Grains Project