Why krill is the new star in the omega-3 pet supplement space

Antarctic krill is an increasingly popular option in pet food as it offers multiple benefits. The same can be said for its role in supplements.

When diet just isn’t enough

Sufficient omega-3 levels are essential for health, but – like humans – pets cannot produce omega-3s on their own, and sometimes diet just isn’t enough. In that case, supplementation is necessary and krill oil is an excellent option for humans and pets alike.

A super supplement for pets

Not all omega-3s are equal. Krill is made up of a powerful combo of nutrients and, unlike other omega-3 options, it provides long-chain omega-3s (EPA and DHA) mainly in the form of phospholipids. Phospholipids are unique in that they are water-soluble, allowing easy integration into the vital organs where they are needed the most. Krill is also naturally rich in choline and astaxanthin. Choline is essential for a healthy liver and important for brain and muscle health. Meanwhile, astaxanthin is an antioxidant and natural protectant. Just like vitamin E, it helps to boost a pet’s immune system, but is a hundred times more effective.

Innovation possibilities

Pets can enjoy the benefits of two unique krill oil products:

• Antarctic Phospholipid Oil is rich in easily utilized marine phospholipid omega-3 (EPA and DHA), choline and the antioxidant astaxanthin.
• AstaOmega Oil offers a natural combination of marine triglyceride omega-3s and high levels of astaxanthin.

As unique and superior ingredients, both QRILL Pet Antarctic Phospholipid Oil and AstaOmega Oil provide several health benefits and can be used as stand-alone products or as ingredients for innovation purposes.

Superior and sustainable

Consumers continue to seek out krill oil to support their overall health and well-being, and numerous studies document the health benefits and efficiency of krill oil in humans. The same can be said for krill oil in pets.

And while it’s clear that the health benefits are endless, the health of the planet is also an important topic. Krill is considered one of the most sustainable sources of marine omega-3s. All of Aker BioMarine’s QRILL Pet ingredients carry Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, the highest-ranking sustainability certificate available. Furthermore, as the world’s most sustainable reduction fishery, the Antarctic Krill Fishery has received an ‘A’ rating from the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership for the past 7 years.