The Environmental Impact: Vegan Omega-3 vs. Fish Oil

Fish, seafood, and fish oil supplements are traditional sources of Omega-3s, but plant-based options are also available for those with different dietary preferences or who prioritize sustainability.

Now, if you check your typical fish oil supplement label, you'll probably notice that fish oil is likely the go-to source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. But there's a twist. Beneath the water's surface, where fish swim and thrive, lies their secret: algae.

Algae is the primary source from which fish obtain their Omega-3s.¹ So, why not bypass the middleman and get your Omega-3s directly from the source? Because yes, it's possible. And it may offer some benefits you probably haven't considered yet.

Here's what you need to know:

Fish oil product quality has jumped the shark.

Algae, mainly marine varieties like Nannochloropsis sp., are teeming with Omega-3s. These tiny plants pack a punch when it comes to nutritional value. And they can offer the same bioavailable DHA and EPA components found in fish oil.*²

Some fish oil supplements, especially the more inexpensive ones, may come from low-end forage fish. These fish undergo processes that may compromise the quality of the Omega-3s. Plus, the necessary high-heat treatments and long shipping routes can raise further concerns.³

It may be a 'toxic' association.

Speaking of cutting corners, another concern is that some fish oil dietary products may bypass the essential molecular distillation and fractionation.⁴

That means some fish oil products may contain toxins like mercury, PCBs, and dioxins.

For instance, a 2018 study concluded that "dietary fish oil contains relative high concentrations of marine pollutants (particularly POPs) and is the main vector carrying marine pollutants to human consumers."⁵

These impurities can pose health risks, overshadowing the benefits of Omega-3s.

Marine algae are O-Mega good for you.

Made from algae grown in controlled lab conditions, algae oil is free from the harmful toxins that sometimes taint fish oil. The controlled environment ensures a consistent quality, typically devoid of potential ocean pollutants.⁶ It can be a game-changer. In short, our algal oil is designed to deliver the same Omega-3 benefits but with a focus on quality control and sustainability.*

Plus, Omega-3 supplements using marine algae, such as Nannochloropsis sp., can boast about 450 mg of EPA and DHA per dose, which may help you reach the recommended 'sweet spot' of suggested daily fatty acid intake.*⁷

Our algae-based EPA and DHA nootropics are formulated to support brain network health, the immune system, joints, skin, heart health, and liver when used alongside regular exercise and a nutritious diet.*^8,9

It's the only eco-friendly choice.

But the advantages of algae don't end with personal health. The environment can reap the benefits, too.

With commercial fishing casting a dark shadow on marine ecosystems, bycatch (the unintended capture of non-target species) is a significant concern. It's often wasteful and devastating to marine life. It also means some fish-derived omega dietary products may not be sustainably sourced, which can be as harmful as it is reckless.

Algae cultivation, on the other hand, has a minimal environmental footprint. It's sustainable, requiring just sunlight, water, and a controlled setting. No vast trawling nets, no bycatch, no devastated marine habitats.

Algae, an excellent vegan alternative, and why flax may not be enough.

You likely heard that chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, brussels sprouts, and walnuts are excellent sources of vegan Omega-3s. It's true. But, eating these foods to get your Omega-3s may come with some drawbacks.

Compared to the direct EPA and DHA found in marine algae, other plant-based omega sources primarily offer ALA. The challenge with ALA is that it requires our body to transform this complex fatty acid into EPA and DHA.¹⁰ Not only that, but our body's ability to convert ALA can be limited. For example, only about 5% of ALA is converted to EPA, while less than 0.5% is converted to DHA.*¹¹

Essentially, most plant-derived Omega-3s may necessitate an additional conversion step for your body to reap the benefits of EPA and DHA.*

On the other hand, algae products help your body cut the hard part of this conversion process and get nourishment immediately.* Which is why we at HCF® prefer algae-sourced Omega-3s for our nootropics while being mindful of sustainability.