For decades, salmon oil was the gold standard in the feeding bowl. "Good for the coat," they said. But times have changed. The oceans are empty, the fish are contaminated with heavy metals, and science has found a source that is closer to the origin: Algae.

Anyone concerned with longevity for their pet inevitably encounters the topic of inflammation. Chronic, silent inflammation (Inflammaging) is the fuel for aging. The most effective fire extinguisher against this is Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. But where these come from makes a huge difference.

Why Linseed Oil is NOT sufficient

A common misconception: "I give linseed oil, that's enough Omega-3." Unfortunately, no. Linseed oil contains ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). Dogs can only convert this into the biologically active forms EPA and DHA to a very small extent (< 5%). Cats cannot convert it at all (enzyme deficiency). Horses are also inefficient converters.

Conclusion: Plant-based oils like linseed or hemp oil are good for energy, but therapeutically useless against inflammation in the joint or organ.

The Problem with Fish Oil

Fish do not produce Omega-3 themselves. They ingest it by eating algae. Fish oil is therefore only the "filtered" intermediate stage. This brings disadvantages:

  • Toxins: Fish accumulate heavy metals (mercury), microplastics, and dioxins in their fatty tissue.
  • Ecology: For one liter of salmon oil, kilograms of fish are processed. Overfishing is a massive problem.
  • Rancidity: Fish oil oxidizes quickly upon contact with oxygen. Rancid oil promotes inflammation instead of inhibiting it.

The Solution: Algae Oil (The Original)

We skip the fish and go directly to the source: The microalgae Schizochytrium sp.. It is cultivated in closed tanks on land.

The advantages for Longevity:

  • Purity: No contact with polluted seawater. Guaranteed free of heavy metals and microplastics.
  • Potency: The concentration of EPA and DHA is often higher than in fish oil.
  • Taste: It smells slightly nutty-maritime, but not penetrantly "fishy". Acceptance is significantly higher, especially with cats.

Bioavailability

Studies show that Omega-3 from algae oil is absorbed by the body just as well, if not better, than from fish oil. It lowers inflammatory markers (CRP) and protects telomeres (the ends of chromosomes).

Conclusion

If you want to provide your animal with high-quality Omega-3 to protect joints, heart, and kidneys, algae oil is the modern, safe, and ethical choice. It is the "clean fuel" for a long life.