Marine Oils

In the late 1970s, epidemiological studies found that a traditional Greenlandic diet rich in long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) significantly reduced the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Since then, marine oils are receiving more and more attention as a source of C 20 and C 22 carbon omega-3 polyenoic fatty acids.

Marine oils are rich in PUFAs, especially those of the omega-3 family such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In addition, marine oils also contain high levels of monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids, as well as small amounts of omega-6 PUFAs. In addition to fatty acids, they have other chemical species, including fat-soluble vitamins, carotenoids, phospholipids, cholesterol and glycerol. The presence of these nutrients makes marine oils one of the most popular supplements in the world today.

Microencapsulation of marine oils

Marine oils are beneficial to humans in terms of promoting health and reducing the risk of disease. However, they are unstable in nature and prone to degradation. Microencapsulation is an effective and important tool for the preparation of oil-based high-quality and health-beneficial products in various industries. Different technologies have been used for the microencapsulation of marine oils including emulsification, spray drying, coaxial electrospray systems, freeze drying, coacervation, in-situ polymerization and supercritical fluid technology. Microencapsulation technology helps to enhance the stability of marine oils, including chemical stability, oxidative stability and thermal stability. In addition, the technology can also improve the biological activity, functional activity, physicochemical properties, overall quality and shelf life of marine oils. Currently, microencapsulated marine oils are successfully used in food and pharmaceutical products.

Figure 1. Composition of an oil microcapsule in simplified form ^[1].

Health benefits of marine oils

Marine oils are rich in EPA and DHA, which have profound effects on health and disease. When consumed in small amounts, marine oils may help to meet the need for omega-3 fatty acids, while in large amounts they produce pharmacological effects and modify the requirements for other nutrients. The main beneficial effects of marine oils on health are described below.

Our products

With a deep research base in the field of marine chemistry, Alfa Chemistry has the ability to offer a wide range of high quality marine oils. The main products we offer are listed below.  

If you do not find what you need, please contact us. We also offer product customization according to customer's detailed requirements.

Reference

1. Bakry, A. M.; et al. Microencapsulation of oils: A comprehensive review of benefits, techniques, and applications. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. 2016, 15: 143-182.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.