Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most thoroughly researched nutrients of our time. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are of particular interest because they perform different, complementary roles in the human body.
What's striking is that algae oil almost always contains significantly more DHA than EPA . But why is that – and what does it mean for daily intake?
Omega-3 doesn't start in fish – but in algae.
A common misconception is that fish are the primary producers of omega-3 fatty acids. In fact:
Fish do not produce DHA and EPA themselves. They obtain these fatty acids through their food – primarily from microalgae , which are at the beginning of the marine food chain.
Algae are therefore the primary source of omega-3 fatty acids in nature. Fish oil is merely an "intermediate route," while algae oil represents direct access to the original source.
The biological role of DHA in microalgae
Microalgae – especially species such as Schizochytrium sp. – do not produce Omega-3 fatty acids by chance, but out of cellular biological necessity .
DHA fulfills key functions in algae:
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It is a structural component of cell membranes.
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It ensures high membrane fluidity , especially at low temperatures.
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It stabilizes photosynthesis and metabolic processes.
With six double bonds, DHA possesses a particularly flexible molecular structure. This property is essential for single-celled organisms such as algae to maintain their cell functions under changing environmental conditions.
EPA, on the other hand, also has structural functions, but is needed in significantly smaller quantities in algae.
➡️ Result: The algae naturally produces more DHA than EPA.
Evolutionary difference: structure vs. signal
Another key to understanding lies in the different biological functions of DHA and EPA:
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DHA is primarily a structural fatty acid
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EPA functions more strongly as a functional or signaling fatty acid.
In more complex organisms (e.g., humans), EPA plays an important role as a precursor for eicosanoids. In microalgae, however, the focus is less on signaling processes and more on stable, flexible cell membranes – a clear advantage for DHA.
Why fish oil often contains more EPA
Fish partially alter the fatty acid profile of the algae they consume through their own metabolism:
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EPA is being concentrated more heavily in fish.
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DHA can be used up or converted in certain tissues.
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The ratio depends on the fish species, age, diet, and environmental conditions.
Therefore, many fish oils have a more balanced or EPA-heavy profile – not because this is more “original”, but because it has been secondarily metabolized .
Algae oil = original DHA profile
Algae oil reflects the natural, unmodified Omega-3 profile :
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DHA-dominant
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EPA supplement
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free from animal metabolic influence
This profile is particularly interesting for:
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People with a specific DHA requirement
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Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
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People who prefer a plant-based, sustainable source of Omega-3
Modern algae cultivation increases the focus on DHA.
Today's microalgae are specifically selected to provide a stable and reproducible fatty acid profile. They can be cultivated in closed tank or fermentation systems.
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Precisely control growth conditions
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Cultivate DHA-rich strains
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Ensure consistent quality
The result is a highly concentrated algae oil that remains true to the algae's natural DHA profile – without the fluctuations that can occur with fish oil.
Conclusion: More DHA is not marketing – it's biology
The fact that algae oil contains more DHA than EPA is not a trend or technical manipulation , but a direct expression of biological reality:
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Algae are the original producers of Omega-3.
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DHA is their most important structural fatty acid.
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EPA adds – but does not dominate
Those who choose Omega-3 from algae opt for a naturally DHA-rich profile that comes directly from the source – vegan, cultivated under controlled conditions and without going through fish.
