Algae-based omega-3 DHA for pet food, treats and supplements

What is algae-based omega-3 DHA for pet food?

Algae-based omega-3 DHA is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) produced from microalgae for use in animal and human nutrition. Microalgae are the original source of marine omega-3s, which accumulate throughout the marine food chain.

AlgaPrime™ DHA goes directly to this source, using controlled fermentation to provide highly concentrated DHA with consistent quality and traceable production. For pet food manufacturers, it provides an additional source of long-chain omega-3s that can help diversify sourcing and strengthen supply-chain resilience.

Why pet food formulators are considering algae-based DHA

Pet food brands need reliable omega-3 sources that deliver nutritional value while meeting practical requirements for quality, supply and formulation. AlgaPrime™ DHA addresses these needs through consistent quality, traceable supply independent of marine resources, flexibility across validated formulation systems, and sustainability performance supported by life-cycle assessment.

Omega-3 nutrition across pet life stages

DHA and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids have nutritional roles relevant to different pet life stages, including neurological development and cognitive function as well as skin and coat, eye, heart, kidney and joint health. Evidence and regulatory requirements for consumer-facing health claims should be evaluated for the specific species, dose, formulation and market.

How AlgaPrime™ DHA is produced

AlgaPrime™ DHA is produced from microalgae through controlled fermentation on land. The production model combines high DHA concentration, consistent quality and traceable supply with responsibly sourced cane sugar and renewable energy. As an additional source of long-chain omega-3s, AlgaPrime™ DHA can help manufacturers diversify sourcing and reduce exposure to fluctuations in marine-derived omega-3 supply.

Quality designed for pet nutrition

AlgaPrime™ DHA provides a highly concentrated source of omega-3 DHA with the consistent quality and performance pet food manufacturers require. Produced through controlled fermentation, it offers stability and flowability along with odor and palatability characteristics suited to pet nutrition applications. Available in multiple product forms and backed by technical expertise, AlgaPrime™ DHA can support integration into different manufacturing processes and formulations.

Diversify omega-3 sourcing

As demand for omega-3 nutrition grows, manufacturers are looking to build more resilient supply chains. AlgaPrime™ DHA complements traditional marine sources by providing a highly concentrated, traceable source of DHA produced at industrial scale. This additional production platform can help reduce exposure to volatility in marine supply while supporting long-term supply security and diversified omega-3 sourcing.

Sustainability supported by life-cycle evidence

AlgaPrime™ DHA sustainability claims are supported by ISO 14040/14044-compliant, peer-reviewed life-cycle assessments. Current assessments for the AlgaPrime™ DHA portfolio report a 30–40% lower climate impact compared with average fish oil, with results varying by fish species and production pathway. Learn more about the AlgaPrime™ DHA life-cycle assessment.

From nutrition need to product

For detailed product specifications, available forms and technical support, continue to the AlgaPrime™ DHA product page. For the broader technology and sourcing context, explore Corbion’s algae fermentation solutions and explore Corbion's approach to diversified omega-3 sourcing  content.