Vegan Omega 3 Algae Oil, Frequently Asked Questions

Vegan omega 3 algae oil is a plant-based supplement alternative to krill or fish-based omega 3 oils.

It is made from types of microalgae, commonly classified under the genus Schizochytrium, including species such as: Schizochytrium aggregatum, Schizochytrium limacinum and Schizochytrium minutum.

These are algae that are commercially specific for their high lipid content.

Basically, instead of extracting omega fatty acids from fish, who eat these algae, you're getting them directly from the source.

While some online references refer to it inaccurately as "seaweed oil", these species are not botanically considered seaweeds.

And, in case you were wondering, these types are also different than the ones frequently utilized to make algae-based biofuel. 

As a supplement, vegan algae oil is a clear pale yellow color and usually available in soft gel capsule format rather than a liquid oil.

No, not exactly. For commercial production, it does not come from the ocean.

It is typically cultivated on land in enclosed sterile fermentation tanks as oppose to natural marine environments.

Some may call it "marine algal oil", but that's simply because the microalgae species originate in seawater.

We will get into the main processing steps further along on this page.

Just like marine-based omega oils, these microalgae are known for their ability to synthesize and concentrate the valued DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) omega-3 nutrient,

In addition, they are likewise good sources of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DPA (docosapentaenoic acid). 

Supplements usually contain about 300-500 milligrams of DHA per serving.

On average, adults are advised to consume between 250-500 milligrams of combined DHA and EPA daily.

The genus Schizochytrium produces a high lipid output of both DHA and EPA comparable to krill and fish oil supplements.

In 2025 research, it was identified that "microalgal oil" or algae oil contains similar amounts to fish oil, meeting the nutritional needs for both DHA and EPA when taken in supplement form.

Unlike cod liver oil, however, algae oils don't naturally contain vitamin D or vitamin A.

Some fish oil brands can add in these vitamins, but this is currently rare for vegan algae oil.

Strict vegans who don't eat seafood or fish-based omega-3's can be deficient in these vital dietary fatty acids. Algae oil can be a great way to supplement.

Not only do omega-3's like DHA and EPA balance the pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid (which are in a lot of foods and vegetable oils) but these nutrients are also essential for certain bodily functions.

Cognitive Support

DHA, being the main structural compound that is found in the human brain and cerebral cortex, is an essential macronutrient for the brain and central nervous system.

When replenished through adequate dietary uptake, there is a reduced risk of neurological issues such as depression and cognitive decline.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids have long been considered beneficial to the cardiovascular system. (*)

In the results of one study, it was identified that the docosahexaenoic acid from algae oil can potentially reduce serum triglycerides and increase HDL, the "good cholesterol". 

Keep in mind, it’s always best to consult a medical professional before adding omega-3 algae oil to the diet if you have cardiovascular related health conditions or are taking blood thinners.

Eyesight and Joints

DHA is also a component found in the skin and retina of the eye and omega-3 algae oil can be a valuable source of nutrition is this regard.

Because of its attributes as an anti-inflammatory agent, it is likewise a good dietary supplement for general joint maintenance.

Algae oil is extracted via a precise production process.

First, the Schizochytrium species is cultivated in stainless-steel fermenters and fed nutrients that maximize growth and lipid accumulation.

It is harvested when the cell density reaches wanted omega-3 fatty acid levels. The microalgae is then heated (pasteurized) to break down cell walls and separate the oil and water content.

Next, the algae oil is extracted using any one of several methods depending on the company. The four most common include:

1. Mechanical/Expeller Pressing
2. Aqueous Enzymatic Extraction
3. Supercritical CO₂ Extraction
4. Solvent Extraction

Of these four, solvent extraction is the only one that uses a chemical process and solvents like hexane or ethanol.

After that, the algae oil extract is refined and purified to remove saturated fat and waxes. It is usually deodorized with steam refining to eliminate volatile compounds which provides a neutral-tasting oil that won't have a strong seaweed-like flavor.

Some brands that use less processing may use a darker colored soft gel to encapsulate the oil and protect it from light oxidation.

Finally, the oil is stabilized and standardized to prevent it from going rancid and also to control the desired ratio of omega-3's. 

Some brands with higher DHA levels may also use a procedure called transesterification which converts them into ethyl esters to make it easier to standardize.

Most supplements sold as "vegan omega 3 algae oil" can contain other plant-based omega-3's like flaxseed oil. However most do not tend to include other main ingredients with the exception of sunflower oil.

Brands use sunflower oil primarily as a carrier oil, usually listed as the second ingredient after the algae oil Schizochytrium sp extract.

This is done to standardize the concentration and increase absorption, but also the vitamin E in sunflower oil helps to protect against oxidization. Other ingredients such as tocopherols and sunflower lecithin may also serve the same purpose.

We noticed that most top brands use rosemary extract as a natural preservative and include ascorbyl palmitate, a form of vitamin C made by bonding ascorbic acid with palmitic acid.

Some may contain carrageenan as part of the soft gel capsule, so good to be aware if you have allergies.

Another one of the selling points of taking a vegan omega 3 algae oil over a fish-based supplement is that it has less of an environmental impact on fish populations.

It's likewise first on the food chain. The fish eat the lipid-concentrated microalgae and accumulate it. Vegan algae oil leaves the fish out of the equation and goes directly to the source.

Since it's commercially grown indoors in controlled tanks, it is also very pure and free of heavy-metal contaminants and other toxins common to marine waters.

What is Methylene Blue? Is It Healthy? Do We Take It?

Olive Leaf Extract Benefits as an Herbal Supplement

Supplement Gummies, Are They Effective?

What are Collagen Peptides? Reasons to Use