Algal oil (DHA)
Algal DHA oil is produced by fermenting marine microalgae, most often Schizochytrium or Aurantiochytrium strains, in closed tanks. The biomass is harvested, the oil is extracted and then refined, bleached and deodorized like other edible oils. Grades are sold by DHA content, commonly from about 35 to over 50 percent, and some also contain EPA. It is the usual non-fish source of DHA for vegan softgels, infant formula and fortified foods.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Refined oil sold at a stated minimum DHA content; higher-DHA grades cost more but need less fill per serving.
Strains or blends that deliver both EPA and DHA, used where a fish-oil-like ratio is wanted.
Oil spray-dried with proteins, starches or gums for powders, gummies and dry blends.
Grades made and documented for infant formula use, often with tighter contaminant and oxidation limits.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Keep oil sealed under nitrogen, protected from light, and refrigerated or below the temperature the supplier specifies; powders should stay sealed and dry. Most algal oils are supplied with added tocopherols or other stabilizers to slow oxidation. Shelf life follows the supplier specification, with peroxide and anisidine values retested before use of aged stock.
DHA content and oxidation values differ between lots and between strains, so record the actual DHA figure for each lot used in a formula. Opened containers should be blanketed with nitrogen and used quickly.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
GRN 137, for algal oil from Schizochytrium sp. notified by Martek Biosciences Corporation, closed with FDA having no questions.
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)GRN 553, for algal oil with 40% DHA from Schizochytrium sp. notified by DSM Nutritional Products for infant formula, closed with FDA having no questions.
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's Fixed Oil Products monograph lists Schizochytrium oil, from whole Schizochytrium spp., as a medicinal ingredient.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · Saskatoon, Canada
Sells it as AlgalPure DHA
Canadian supplier of plant and marine oils, coconut and MCT oils, seeds and proteins in bulk and finished formats for food, supplement and pet nutrition brands.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include oil by DHA level, dHA plus EPA grades, microencapsulated powder and infant-formula grade. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect dHA and EPA, peroxide, anisidine and TOTOX, residual solvents, heavy metals and microbiology (powders), each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Keep oil sealed under nitrogen, protected from light, and refrigerated or below the temperature the supplier specifies; powders should stay sealed and dry. Most algal oils are supplied with added tocopherols or other stabilizers to slow oxidation. Shelf life follows the supplier specification, with peroxide and anisidine values retested before use of aged stock.
GRN 137, for algal oil from Schizochytrium sp. notified by Martek Biosciences Corporation, closed with FDA having no questions. GRN 553, for algal oil with 40% DHA from Schizochytrium sp. notified by DSM Nutritional Products for infant formula, closed with FDA having no questions. Health Canada's Fixed Oil Products monograph lists Schizochytrium oil, from whole Schizochytrium spp., as a medicinal ingredient.
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