Abstract
The regular intake of marine omega 3’s DHA and EPA has been scientifically established as providing a wide range of health benefits. This paper reviews recent developments in the commercial production of DHA and EPA rich oils from micro-algae. The selection of suitable micro-algae species is discussed. The complexities of producing algal oil rich in marine omega 3’s is examined in terms of both upstream and downstream production.
Highlights
The marine omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA have a wide range of scientifically established health benefits attributed to their consumption
These algal oils are already established for use in infant formula and are increasingly being used in health supplements and enriched food products
Algal oil is likely to provide an increasing proportion of our DHA and EPA needs in Europe in the future
Summary
The marine omega-3 fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) have a wide range of scientifically established health benefits attributed to their consumption. A recent commercial development of this century has been the production of oils rich in DHA and EPA from microalgae. DHA (C22:6 n-3) is a long chain omega-3 fatty acid that is found throughout the human body. It is a major structural lipid in the brain and the retina of the eye and is a key component of the heart. The major health benefit of EPA is its role as an eicosanoid; playing an important role in regulating inflammation and It is widely accepted that EPA-derived eicosanoids are effective in helping manage heart disease and other chronic and inflammatory processes
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