Algal-Oil

• Cardiovascular health
• Cognitive function support
• Anti-inflammatory
• Neurological development

• Eye health
• Maternal and infant health
• Mood regulation
• Immune system modulation
• Skin health

Algal oil exerts its biological effects primarily through its content of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), with some varieties also containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), both of which are long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs). Unlike fish oil, which derives its omega-3 content from marine food chains, algal oil obtains these fatty acids directly from the source—microalgae, which are the original producers of DHA and EPA in the marine ecosystem. The primary mechanisms of action for algal oil are largely identical to those of other marine-derived omega-3 supplements, with the key difference being its plant origin rather than animal source. Upon consumption, the DHA and EPA from algal oil are incorporated into cell membranes throughout the body, partially replacing omega-6 fatty acids, particularly arachidonic acid (AA).

This membrane remodeling alters membrane fluidity, organization of lipid rafts, and function of membrane proteins, including receptors, ion channels, and enzymes. DHA, with its highly flexible structure containing six double bonds, is particularly effective at increasing membrane fluidity and altering lipid raft composition. In the brain, where DHA constitutes approximately 30% of the fatty acid content, this incorporation is crucial for maintaining neuronal membrane structure and function, supporting synaptic plasticity, neurotransmission, and overall cognitive function. A primary anti-inflammatory mechanism involves the competitive inhibition of AA metabolism.

DHA and EPA compete with AA for the cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids derived from AA (such as prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4) while promoting the synthesis of less inflammatory or actively anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. Additionally, DHA and EPA serve as precursors for specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), including resolvins, protectins, and maresins. These potent lipid mediators actively resolve inflammation by inhibiting neutrophil infiltration, promoting phagocytosis of cellular debris, and enhancing tissue repair. Algal oil omega-3s modulate gene expression through interaction with transcription factors, particularly peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs).

This affects genes involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cellular differentiation. DHA and EPA also inhibit the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor that regulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. In cardiovascular health, algal oil reduces triglyceride synthesis in the liver by decreasing the expression of lipogenic genes and increasing fatty acid oxidation. It also improves endothelial function, reduces platelet aggregation, lowers blood pressure through effects on vascular tone, and stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques.

For visual function, DHA is essential for retinal structure and function, particularly in the photoreceptor cells where it maintains membrane fluidity necessary for optimal phototransduction. In maternal and infant health, DHA plays a crucial role in fetal brain and retinal development, with algal oil providing a direct plant-based source of preformed DHA that bypasses the inefficient conversion from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in the maternal system.

The optimal dosage of algal oil is typically expressed in terms of the DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) content, and in some products, the combined DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) content. For general health maintenance, 250-500 mg of DHA daily is recommended for adults. Some algal oil products contain only DHA, while newer varieties may contain both DHA and EPA. The ratio of these omega-3 fatty acids varies by product, with most algal oils containing predominantly DHA (typically 30-50% of the oil) and smaller amounts of EPA (0-20% of the oil) if present.

For therapeutic purposes, higher doses ranging from 1,000-2,000 mg of DHA daily may be used, depending on the specific condition being addressed. It’s important to note that a 1,000 mg algal oil capsule typically contains only 300-500 mg of DHA, so multiple capsules may be needed to reach therapeutic doses.

The bioavailability of algal oil is comparable to that of fish oil, with absorption rates of DHA from algal sources ranging from 70-80% when taken with food. The chemical form of the omega-3 fatty acids is a primary determinant of absorption efficiency. Most commercial algal oil supplements contain DHA in the triglyceride form, which is the natural form found in algae and has good bioavailability. Some products may use ethyl ester forms for concentration purposes, which typically have slightly lower absorption rates (60-70%) when taken without food.

Studies directly comparing the bioavailability of algal DHA to fish oil DHA have generally found equivalent incorporation into plasma and erythrocyte (red blood cell) phospholipids, indicating similar bioavailability between these sources. The DHA from algal oil effectively raises blood and tissue levels of DHA, confirming its efficacy as an alternative to fish-derived omega-3s. Newer algal oil products that contain both DHA and EPA show similar bioavailability characteristics for both fatty acids. The absence of competing fatty acids in some highly purified algal oil products may potentially offer slight advantages in absorption compared to fish oil, which contains a broader spectrum of fatty acids, though clinical significance of this difference is minimal.

Taking with a fat-containing meal increases absorption by 50-60% for ethyl ester forms and by 20-30% for triglyceride forms by stimulating bile release and pancreatic lipase activity, Emulsified algal oil products (liquid or soft gel) increase surface area for enzymatic action, potentially improving absorption by 30-40%, Enteric-coated capsules protect the oil from stomach acid degradation and deliver more intact oil to the small intestine, Nanoemulsion formulations significantly reduce particle size, increasing surface area and enhancing absorption, Consuming with lipase-containing foods (like avocados) or digestive enzyme supplements may enhance breakdown and absorption, Liposomal delivery systems encapsulate omega-3s in phospholipid vesicles, potentially enhancing cellular uptake, Dividing larger doses throughout the day improves absorption compared to a single large dose, Consuming with antioxidants (vitamin E, astaxanthin) may protect the unsaturated fatty acids from oxidation during digestion, Avoiding high-fiber supplements at the same time, as fiber can bind to fatty acids and reduce absorption

Algal oil supplements are best taken with meals, particularly those containing fat, to maximize absorption. This is especially important for ethyl ester forms, which show significantly reduced bioavailability when taken on an empty stomach. For larger therapeutic doses (>1 gram DHA), dividing the dose between two or three meals throughout the day may improve overall absorption and reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects compared to a single large dose. Morning or midday administration is often preferred over evening dosing, as some individuals report sleep disturbances or vivid dreams when taking omega-3 supplements before bed, though this effect varies between individuals.

For cardiovascular benefits, consistent daily dosing is more important than specific timing. For cognitive support, some research suggests that DHA incorporation into brain tissue occurs over extended periods of consistent supplementation, making daily compliance more important than timing. For pregnant women taking algal oil for fetal development, consistent daily dosing is essential, as DHA accumulates in fetal tissues throughout pregnancy, with the third trimester being a period of particularly high demand. If taking multiple supplements, separating algal oil from iron supplements by at least 2 hours may be prudent, as iron can potentially promote oxidation of the omega-3 fatty acids.

• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
• Fishy aftertaste or burping (less common than with fish oil)
• Increased risk of bleeding at very high doses (>3g DHA daily)
• Potential for increased LDL cholesterol in some individuals (primarily with high DHA doses)
• Mild skin reactions (rare)
• Halitosis (bad breath) – uncommon

• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 1-2 weeks prior due to mild anticoagulant effects at high doses)
• Uncontrolled hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Severe liver disease (for high-dose supplementation)
• Bipolar disorder manic phase (may potentially worsen manic symptoms)
• Known allergy to algae or algal components (rare)
• Hemophilia or other bleeding disorders (use with caution at high doses)

• Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) – may increase bleeding risk at high doses
• Blood pressure medications – may enhance hypotensive effects
• Orlistat and other lipase inhibitors – may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in algal oil
• Vitamin E supplements – potential additive anticoagulant effects at high doses
• Glucocorticoids – may reduce the immunomodulatory effects of algal oil
• Contraceptive drugs – theoretical interaction affecting hormone levels
• Diabetes medications – may enhance glucose-lowering effects, requiring monitoring
• Cyclosporine – may affect blood levels of this immunosuppressant

The FDA considers doses up to 3 grams of DHA and EPA combined per day from supplements to be generally safe. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established a supplemental intake of up to 5 grams of DHA and EPA combined per day as safe for adults. For algal oil specifically, which often contains primarily DHA, doses up to 2 grams of DHA daily have been used in clinical studies without significant adverse effects. At these higher doses, increased risk of bleeding and potential immunosuppressive effects become more significant concerns, though still rare.

Individuals with specific health conditions (particularly bleeding disorders, compromised immune function, or uncontrolled hypotension) should use lower doses and consult healthcare providers. Algal oil has several safety advantages over fish oil, including absence of environmental contaminants like mercury, PCBs, and dioxins that can be present in some fish oil products. It also eliminates the risk of fish-related allergic reactions, making it suitable for individuals with fish or shellfish allergies. Quality is still a critical safety consideration, as oxidized (rancid) algal oil may have pro-inflammatory rather than anti-inflammatory effects.

Products should be tested for microbial contamination, heavy metals, and oxidation parameters, with levels below established safety thresholds. Algal oil is generally considered safe for pregnant and lactating women at recommended doses (200-300 mg DHA daily), and is commonly used in infant formulas, indicating its safety profile for these vulnerable populations.

In the United States, algal oil has a unique regulatory status that spans both food ingredient and dietary supplement categories. The FDA has granted Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status to algal oil DHA from specific microalgae strains (primarily Schizochytrium sp. and Crypthecodinium cohnii) for various food applications, including infant formula, food for pregnant and nursing women, and general food categories. This GRAS status represents a higher level of regulatory recognition than many dietary supplements receive.

As a dietary supplement, algal oil is regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. Under this framework, manufacturers cannot make specific claims about treating, curing, or preventing diseases, but can make structure/function claims about effects on normal body functions (e.g., ‘supports heart health’). These claims must be accompanied by a disclaimer stating they have not been evaluated by the FDA. The FDA has acknowledged a qualified health claim for conventional foods and dietary supplements containing EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, stating that ‘supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.’ This claim can be applied to algal oil products that provide DHA (and EPA if present).

The FDA considers doses up to 3 grams of DHA and EPA combined per day from supplements to be generally safe. Algal DHA has been used in infant formula in the U.S. since 2001, reflecting its high safety profile and regulatory acceptance.

Eu: In the European Union, algal oil is regulated both as a novel food ingredient and as a food supplement. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved DHA-rich oil from specific microalgae strains as novel food ingredients, allowing their use in various food categories including infant formula, dietary foods for special medical purposes, and food supplements. The EU has approved several health claims for DHA under Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006, including claims related to brain development, eye development, and heart function. Specifically, foods providing at least 250 mg of DHA per day can claim to contribute to ‘normal heart function,’ and foods with 250 mg DHA can claim to contribute to ‘normal brain function’ and ‘normal vision.’ Additional claims are approved for maternal and infant nutrition. The EU has established a tolerable upper intake level of 5 grams of combined EPA and DHA per day from all sources.

Canada: Health Canada regulates algal oil both as a food ingredient and as a Natural Health Product (NHP). Algal DHA has been approved for use in infant formula and various food categories. As an NHP, algal oil products must have a Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label, indicating they have been assessed by Health Canada for safety, efficacy, and quality. Health Canada has approved specific claims for DHA, including supporting cardiovascular health, brain function, and eye health. The recommended intake for general health is similar to other omega-3 sources, at approximately 500 mg of DHA per day.

Australia: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates algal oil as a listed complementary medicine. Products must be included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and comply with quality and safety standards. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has approved algal DHA as a food ingredient, including in infant formula. The TGA allows certain health claims for algal oil supplements based on evidence levels, including claims related to cardiovascular health, brain function, and eye health.

Japan: In Japan, algal oil is regulated under the Foods with Function Claims (FFC) system, which allows for certain health claims based on scientific evidence without the strict approval process required for Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU). Algal DHA is approved for use in various food categories, including infant formula. Japan has particularly strict standards regarding oxidation parameters for omega-3 oils, including algal oil.

China: The China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) regulates algal oil primarily as a food ingredient rather than a traditional Chinese medicine. Algal DHA has been approved for use in infant formula and other food categories. Products containing algal oil must be registered with specific approved health functions, and the registration process includes safety assessments and quality control requirements.

Medium to High

Algal oil is generally more expensive than conventional fish oil but less expensive than krill oil, positioning it in the mid-to-high price range for omega-3 supplements. The cost of algal oil supplements ranges from $0.30-$1.00 per gram of oil, or approximately $0.60-$2.00 per day for a standard dose providing 250-500 mg of DHA. Premium brands with higher DHA concentration, additional EPA content, or specialized delivery systems may cost $1.50-$3.00 per day for a similar DHA dose. When calculated based on the actual DHA content (rather than total oil), the cost ranges from $1.00-$4.00 per gram of DHA, compared to $0.50-$2.00 per gram for fish oil and $2.00-$6.00 per gram for krill oil.

This price premium over fish oil reflects the higher production costs associated with algal cultivation and extraction, but the technology has improved over time, gradually reducing costs from the much higher prices seen when these products first entered the market in the early 2000s.

The value proposition of algal oil depends largely on individual priorities and needs. For vegetarians, vegans, and those with fish allergies, algal oil provides essential preformed DHA that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain from their diet, making it a high-value supplement despite the premium price. For these populations, the relevant comparison is not to fish oil but to the health costs of potential DHA deficiency. For environmentally conscious consumers, algal oil offers superior sustainability compared to fish oil, with no impact on marine ecosystems, no bycatch issues, and typically a lower carbon footprint, particularly for products from manufacturers using renewable energy.

This environmental benefit may justify the higher cost for those prioritizing sustainability. For those concerned about contaminants, algal oil provides a reliably pure source of omega-3s without the risk of mercury, PCBs, dioxins, or other environmental pollutants that can be present in some fish oil products, potentially offering better value despite the higher upfront cost. For general omega-3 supplementation in omnivores without specific concerns about fish consumption, standard fish oil likely offers better cost efficiency for most consumers. However, the gap has narrowed as algal oil production has scaled up and become more efficient.

The absence of fishy aftertaste or reflux, which are common complaints with fish oil, may provide additional value for those sensitive to these issues. For specific applications like pregnancy and infant nutrition, where DHA is particularly crucial for brain and eye development, the reliable purity and consistent DHA content of algal oil may offer superior value despite the higher cost. Some newer algal oil products that contain both DHA and EPA offer improved value by providing a more complete omega-3 profile similar to fish oil but from a plant-based source. Overall, algal oil represents a premium omega-3 option that offers unique benefits in terms of suitability for plant-based diets, environmental sustainability, and purity.

While not the most cost-efficient omega-3 source on a pure price-per-gram basis, it provides value that extends beyond the simple omega-3 content for many consumer segments.

Properly manufactured and stored algal oil typically has a shelf life of 18-24 months from the date of manufacture when in softgel form. Liquid algal oil generally has a shorter shelf life of 6-12 months after opening due to increased exposure to oxygen. Products with added antioxidants like vitamin E (tocopherols) or astaxanthin may have extended shelf life. The actual stability period varies significantly based on the specific formulation, processing methods, packaging, and storage conditions.

Higher concentrations of DHA generally correlate with decreased stability due to the greater number of double bonds susceptible to oxidation. Algal oil may have slightly better oxidative stability than fish oil due to the natural antioxidant compounds present in some algae species and the more controlled production environment that minimizes initial oxidation during processing. However, once oxidation begins, it can progress rapidly through an autocatalytic process.

Store algal oil supplements in their original, airtight container away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. Refrigeration is recommended, particularly for liquid algal oil products and after opening, as lower temperatures significantly slow oxidation reactions. Even unopened softgel products benefit from refrigeration, though room temperature storage in a cool, dark place is generally acceptable if the temperature remains below 25°C (77°F). Freezing algal oil is acceptable and may further extend shelf life without damaging the oil, though it may affect the integrity of some softgel capsules.

Minimize exposure to air by keeping containers tightly closed when not in use. For liquid algal oil, consider transferring to smaller containers as you use it to minimize the air space in the bottle. Avoid storing near strong-smelling substances as algal oil can absorb odors. If capsules develop a strong, unpleasant smell (resembling rancid oil or strong algal odor) or taste extremely bitter or ‘off,’ this indicates oxidation and they should be discarded.

Dark, opaque bottles with nitrogen-flushed headspace provide the best protection for liquid algal oil products. When traveling with algal oil, consider using insulated containers if exposure to high temperatures is likely.

Oxygen exposure (primary degradation pathway through oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids), Heat (accelerates oxidation reactions; each 10°C increase approximately doubles the rate of degradation), Light exposure (particularly UV light, which promotes photo-oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids), Transition metal ions (especially iron and copper, which catalyze oxidation reactions), Moisture (can promote hydrolytic rancidity and microbial growth in liquid products), Repeated opening of containers (increases oxygen exposure), Fluctuating temperatures (can cause condensation inside containers, promoting degradation), Extended storage beyond expiration date (natural antioxidants in the oil deplete over time), Improper packaging materials (some plastics may allow oxygen permeation), Pre-existing oxidation products (oxidation is autocatalytic, so products with initial oxidation degrade faster), Higher DHA concentration (more polyunsaturated fatty acids means more sites for oxidation), Absence of antioxidants (natural or added antioxidants like tocopherols slow oxidation), Exposure to environmental pollutants or strong odors (oil can absorb contaminants), Enzymatic degradation (more relevant in liquid products without proper preservatives)

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Unlike many traditional supplements with centuries of historical use, algal oil is a distinctly modern nutritional supplement that emerged in the late 20th century as a result of biotechnological advances. The commercial development of algal oil as a source of DHA began in the 1980s, with significant research conducted by NASA as part of its Closed Ecological Life Support System program, which sought sustainable nutrition sources for long-duration space missions. The first patents for commercial production of DHA from microalgae were filed in the late 1980s by Martek Biosciences Corporation (now part of DSM Nutritional Products), with the first products reaching the market in the early 1990s. While algal oil itself lacks traditional historical usage, its development was influenced by scientific understanding of the importance of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which had been established through studies of fish-consuming populations.

The initial commercial application of algal DHA was in infant formula, providing a vegetarian source of this essential nutrient for brain and eye development. By the mid-1990s, algal DHA had been incorporated into numerous infant formulas worldwide, becoming one of the first widespread applications of biotechnology in nutrition. The expansion of algal oil into the adult supplement market began in the early 2000s, coinciding with growing interest in vegetarian and vegan nutrition, as well as concerns about the sustainability and contamination of fish oil sources. While algal oil lacks the traditional usage history of many botanical supplements, certain microalgae species have been consumed by various cultures throughout history.

Spirulina and chlorella, though not the same species used for DHA production, have been used as food sources by ancient civilizations in Mexico, Chad, and parts of Asia. However, the specific microalgae species used for commercial DHA production (primarily Schizochytrium and Crypthecodinium) were not traditionally consumed by humans. The modern development of algal oil represents a case where scientific research and biotechnology created a new nutritional resource that addresses contemporary needs—providing essential nutrients for vegetarians and vegans, offering a sustainable alternative to fish oil, and producing a contaminant-free source of omega-3 fatty acids. This development pathway has meant that algal oil has been subject to scientific investigation from its earliest commercial availability, with studies specifically designed to evaluate its safety and efficacy.

Today, algal oil is recognized as the premier plant-based source of preformed DHA and, increasingly, EPA, playing an important role in vegetarian and vegan nutrition as well as offering an alternative for those concerned about the sustainability or purity of fish-derived omega-3 supplements.

Lane KE, Wilson M, Hellon TG, Davies IG. Bioavailability and conversion of plant based sources of omega-3 fatty acids – a scoping review to update supplementation options for vegetarians and vegans. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2021;62(18):4879-4889. doi:10.1080/10408398.2021.1880364, Bernstein AM, Ding EL, Willett WC, Rimm EB. A meta-analysis shows that docosahexaenoic acid from algal oil reduces serum triglycerides and increases HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol in persons without coronary heart disease. Journal of Nutrition. 2012;142(1):99-104. doi:10.3945/jn.111.148973, Maki KC, Yurko-Mauro K, Dicklin MR, Schild AL, Geohas JG. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that compare the lipid effects of DHA and EPA. Journal of Clinical Lipidology. 2014;8(1):105-118. doi:10.1016/j.jacl.2013.10.003, Martins JG. EPA but not DHA appears to be responsible for the efficacy of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in depression: evidence from a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2009;28(5):525-542. doi:10.1080/07315724.2009.10719785

Effects of Algal DHA Supplementation on Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Adults (NCT03613844), Algal Oil DHA Supplementation and Pregnancy Outcomes (NCT02219399), Algal Oil Omega-3 Supplementation and Inflammatory Markers in Metabolic Syndrome (NCT03482012), Comparison of Algal and Fish Oil Omega-3 Supplements on Cardiovascular Risk Factors (NCT04261192), Effects of Algal DHA on Exercise Recovery and Performance (NCT03902431)