Sustainable Omega-3
Marine and plant-based Omega 3 supplements that are sourced with techniques that protect the marine environment, public health and animal welfare are considered to be sustainably sourced.
Sustainable omega 3 supplements are often sourced from certified fisheries with strict criteria for harvesting fish from the ocean.
Friend of the Sea is one such certifier. They are an international organisation whose mission is the conservation of the marine environment. They ensure that companies and products that are Friends of the Sea certified are respecting the ocean and its resources and fish is sourced in line with strict standards for fishing methods and farming. This includes no use of growth hormones, respecting endangered species, looking after critical habitats and not exploiting target fish stock.
Best practice guidelines are followed rigidly and independent certification bodies conduct audits to ensure strict adherence to the criteria.
Small fish, such as Mackerel, Sardines and Anchovies are considered the most environmentally sustainable options, they are said to reproduce rapidly and so replenish the population more effectively.
Omega 3 from algae sources are thought to be more environmentally sustainable and is becoming more widely recognised as a beneficial, vegan alternative to fish oil. Fish feed on algae as a primary source of omega 3, this is why fish has a high concentration of these beneficial omega 3 fatty acids. Algae is considered a renewable source of omega 3, because of its small size it is easily grown on a large scale.
Sustainability is essential in ensuring that there is a future supply of marine life for our current generation and future generations.