Aker BioMarine

Sponsored by Aker BioMarine
Aker BioMarine

A source as old as nature itself, but a relatively new ingredient to the pet food industry:  krill brings great health benefits to pets.

Harvesting the best for pets 

Krill is a relatively newly discovered functional marine ingredient for pet food which is rich in omega-3s, choline, marine proteins and the antioxidant astaxanthin. QRILL Pet is a product developed and owned by Aker BioMarine, a biotech innovator and Antarctic krill harvesting company. The company develops krill-based ingredients for nutraceutical, aquaculture and companion animal food applications. Made only from whole Antarctic krill, QRILL ingredients have demonstrated great health benefits for pets. The company’s ongoing focus on research and development of krill-based ingredients makes it unique in the market. 

Not all omega-3s are the same

Not all omega-3s are taken up by pets in the same way. Therefore, choosing the right source is important. Studies have shown that omega-3s from krill have a higher uptake in dogs, when compared to some traditional omega-3 sources. In contrast to omega-3s from other sources, the omega-3 in krill mostly binds with so-called phospholipids. Known as the foundation of all cells, omega-3s are more effectively incorporated into tissues and cells when bound to phospholipids.

Sustainability first 

As the demand for sustainable sourcing is growing, the company is proud to offer pet food brands and manufacturers a fully traceable and one of the most sustainable marine feed ingredients. The company was one of the first krill fishing companies to receive the MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) quality mark.

Market expansion 

QRILL Pet has recently secured FDA approval in the US, which makes it the only krill-derived meal that meets the FDA standards. This opens up opportunities for US pet food brands to use krill in their products and launch new, healthy pet food products. QRILL Pet is also looking to expand into emerging markets, thereby making healthy, nutritious pet food available there also.