You've probably been told to eat more fish to increase your omega-3 intake. Salmon, sardines, mackerel — the usual suspects.
And yes, they're rich in the important omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA.
But here's something many people don't know:
Fish don't actually produce omega-3.
Not a single drop.
Where Do Omega-3s Actually Come From?
The answer is surprisingly simple:
Marine Microalgae & Phytoplankton.
These microscopic organisms are the original producers of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. Using sunlight, carbon dioxide and naturally occurring nutrients, they create these essential fats through photosynthesis.
Fish don't make omega-3 themselves. Instead, they accumulate DHA and EPA by eating microalgae directly or by eating smaller marine organisms that have already consumed algae.
In other words, fish are simply the middleman.
Not All Microalgae Are the Same
One important detail that's often overlooked is that DHA and EPA don't typically come from the same species of microalgae.
Different species, and even different natural strains within a species, produce different types and concentrations of omega-3.
For example, many algae grown for DHA supplements belong to naturally DHA-rich species, while EPA is commonly produced by entirely different species of marine microalgae or phytoplankton.
This diversity is one of the reasons algae has been such an important part of the marine food chain for millions of years.
Why Not Go Straight to the Source?
If algae is where omega-3 begins, it makes sense to ask:
Why not go directly to the original source?
Algae-derived omega-3 provides the same beneficial DHA and EPA found in fish oil, without relying on fish as the middleman.
It's a cleaner, more sustainable and plant-based way to enjoy the benefits of omega-3.
What are DHA & EPA?
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) are the two most important long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Your body can produce only very small amounts, so obtaining them through your diet or supplementation is important.
Research shows DHA and EPA help support:
- Brain health and cognitive function
- Heart and cardiovascular health
- Healthy inflammatory responses
- Eye health
- General wellbeing
These are the forms of omega-3 your body can use most efficiently.
Is Algae Omega-3 the Same as Fish Oil?
Yes.
Both fish oil and algae-derived omega-3 provide DHA and EPA. The difference isn't the omega-3 itself, it's the source.
Fish obtain their omega-3 by consuming algae somewhere along the marine food chain.
Algae supplements simply provide these same beneficial fatty acids directly from their original source.
Many people also choose algae omega-3 because it is:
- 100% plant-based and vegan-friendly
- Sustainably cultivated on land
- Ocean-friendly
- Naturally milder taste and odour
Why Phytality Uses Marine Microalgae
At Phytality, we believe nature usually gets it right.
That's why our omega range is sourced directly from marine microalgae, the original producers of omegas.
We also believe the future of omega-3 lies in the incredible diversity of marine microalgae, with different natural species offering unique nutritional benefits, including both DHA and EPA.
By going straight to the source, we're able to deliver exceptionally pure, plant-based omega-3 while helping reduce pressure on our oceans.
The Bottom Line
Fish may be the most well-known source of omega-3, but they were never the original source.
Marine microalgae and phytoplankton have been producing DHA and EPA for billions of years, forming the foundation of the entire marine food web.
Choosing algae simply means getting your omega-3 from where nature made it first.
Looking for a cleaner, more sustainable way to support your omega-3 intake?
Explore Phytality's range of marine microalgae omega-3 products today.
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