A new study, co-led by researchers from the University of Cincinnati, outlines the development of a method of processing that scientists believe to be a superior way to better produce healthy dietary omega-3s and dietary supplements containing fish oil.
What is so unique about fish oil? It is generally recognized as an exceptional dietary source of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (PUFAs) that have positive effects on human health, including heart and eye health, inflammation, and bone density. These must come from food, for they can not be made by our bodies.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two key omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3s exist in fatty fish such as tuna, mackerel, and sardines. Some plants are rich in alpha-linolenic acid, another form of omega-3 fatty acid, which the body can convert to DHA and EPA. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and canola oil are good sources of these.
A new instrument called a vortex fluidic system (VFD) developed by research collaborators at Flinders University of Australia uses the novel method mentioned in the study. Harshita Kumari, co-author of the report and associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences at UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, says the method is effective in improving the consistency of the active ingredients of PUFAs in fish oil.
To enrich the omega-3 fatty acid content of apple juice, researchers added VFD-mediated encapsulated fish oil.
"This novel process enriches the omega-3 fatty acid content of apple juice remarkably without changing its taste," Kumari said then noting that taste and odor are two typical customer concerns concerning fish oil supplements. When exposed to oxygen, which contributes to oxidation, liquid omega-3 oils will also break down over time.
Kumari said the product will improve PUFA levels and purity by reducing oxidation and significantly increasing shelf life compared to normal homogenization processing. Natural bioactive compounds, often used in processing, show that flavonoids and other healthy nutrients can be consumed by the fish oil medium.
When it comes to brain activity, normal growth and development, and inflammation, omega-3s play significant roles. A variety of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, mood disturbances, arthritis, and more, have been related to deficiencies. But that doesn't mean taking higher doses leads to improved prevention of infection and illness.
As a simple way to protect the heart, relieve stress, boost mental health, and lengthen life, fish oil supplements have been marketed. These arguments are one reason why more than $1 billion a year is spent on over-the-counter fish oil by Americans. And it is applied to dairy, yogurt, cereal, cake, biscuits, coffee, and hundreds of other items by food companies.
The study is published in Nature Papers Journals Science of Food.
