Antarctic krill swimming beneath sea ice in the Southern Ocean

Understanding Krill Oil and Omega-3

A closer look at Antarctic krill oil, its marine omega-3s and the phospholipid-rich matrix that makes it distinctive.

Small source. Distinctive marine nutrition.

Antarctic krill are small crustaceans that live in the Southern Ocean. Krill oil naturally contains the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, together with phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine and the carotenoid astaxanthin.

EPA and DHA are found throughout the body and are important components of cell membranes. What makes krill oil nutritionally distinctive is not simply that it contains omega-3s, but the lipid form in which many of those fatty acids occur and the other naturally associated components found alongside them.

EPA + DHA

Marine omega-3 fatty acids

Phospholipids

Cell-membrane lipids

Phosphatidylcholine

A phospholipid and source of choline

Astaxanthin

A naturally occurring carotenoid

Long-chain fats with important roles throughout the body

Omega-3s are a family of fatty acids with structural and functional roles in the body. Two of the best-known marine omega-3s are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

EPA and DHA form part of cell membranes and have been widely studied in relation to cardiovascular and brain health. DHA is particularly concentrated in the brain and retina, while EPA and DHA are used in the body to produce signalling molecules.

The body can convert the plant omega-3 ALA into EPA and DHA, but the conversion is limited. Marine foods and supplements provide these long-chain omega-3s directly.

Omega-3s in a distinctive marine lipid matrix

Krill oil provides EPA and DHA, but its composition differs from many conventional fish oils. A substantial proportion of its omega-3 fatty acids is associated with phospholipids, which are important structural components of cell membranes.

This phospholipid-rich structure has prompted research into how krill-derived omega-3s are digested, transported and incorporated into the body. Some studies report differences between krill oil and fish oil, while others find similar outcomes. Results depend on the product, dose, comparison and measure used.

The useful distinction is not that krill oil is automatically “stronger” or always better absorbed. It supplies marine omega-3s in a different natural lipid matrix, alongside phospholipids and other characteristic components.

A naturally complex marine oil

The nutritional interest in krill oil extends beyond its omega-3 content. Several naturally associated marine components occur together within the oil.

Phospholipids. Specialised fats that form an important part of cell membranes. Much of the EPA and DHA in krill oil is associated with phospholipids.

Phosphatidylcholine. A major phospholipid in krill oil that contains choline, an essential nutrient used in normal cell structure and function.

Astaxanthin. A naturally occurring red carotenoid that contributes to krill oil’s colour and helps protect lipids from oxidation.

Together, these components give krill oil a profile that differs from an isolated omega-3 ingredient.

From one of the world’s most distinctive marine environments

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) live in the Southern Ocean and form an important part of its food web.

Because krill have a central ecological role, responsible harvesting matters. Sustainability depends on how a fishery is assessed, managed and monitored, not simply on the species or location.

Quality after harvesting matters too. Marine oils require careful handling and appropriate testing, including checks for environmental contaminants.

MIP uses sustainably harvested Antarctic red krill oil. The finished product is tested for lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic.

Marine nutrition made simple

MIP Omega-3 Krill Oil brings the characteristic lipid profile of Antarctic red krill oil into a convenient daily softgel.

The adult daily serving of three softgels provides 1,500mg Antarctic red krill oil, including:

  • 330mg total omega-3 fatty acids
  • 180mg EPA
  • 90mg DHA
  • 600mg marine phospholipids
  • 450mg phosphatidylcholine
  • 300mcg naturally occurring astaxanthin

It is manufactured in a GMP-certified New Zealand facility, tested for heavy metals and formulated without artificial flavours, colours, sweeteners or preservatives.

For people seeking marine omega-3 nutrition, it offers a straightforward way to add krill oil to an everyday routine. Follow the product label and take the softgels with food.

Krill oil containing omega-3 EPA and DHA, phospholipids and naturally occurring astaxanthin

Omega-3 Krill

Premium Antarctic krill oil supplying highly absorbable phospholipid omega-3s, naturally occurring astaxanthin and choline to support heart, brain and joint health.

From US$25.01
You save (%)

Shop Omega-3 Krill Oil

Follow the evidence

Scientific research into krill oil and marine omega-3s includes lipid metabolism, cardiovascular markers, bioavailability and the roles of components such as phospholipids and astaxanthin.

Findings vary according to the product, dose, study population, comparator and study design. The selected research below is provided for readers who want to explore the evidence in more detail; individual studies should not be read as proof that every krill-oil product produces the same result.

This article provides general nutritional information and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual needs vary. Follow the product label and seek advice from a qualified health professional where appropriate.