Marine phytoplankton powder for dogs & cats, 150g

Marine phytoplankton—the plant-based source of omega-3

What is phytoplankton?

Phytoplankton are tiny, microscopic plants—essentially the starting point of the ocean’s food chain. All life depends on it. It is one of the most valuable food sources on our planet. It is not the fish themselves that produce omega-3 fatty acids, but the phytoplankton, which the fish consume as part of their diet. Phytoplankton has a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids from the omega-3 fatty acid family.

What can microalgae do?

In addition to high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, the microalga Schizochytrium sp. also contains other beneficial compounds, such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Schizochytrium sp. is an excellent source of DHA—a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that offers a wide range of health benefits. DHA is particularly important for the development and function of the brain, eyes, and cardiovascular system. An adequate intake is therefore important to reap the numerous health benefits.

Our powder contains both EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Omega-6 fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained from external sources (essential), as the body cannot “produce” them on its own. Although dogs can metabolize the plant-based omega-3 precursor alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (e.g., flaxseed oil) for energy and convert it into EPA (and EPA into DHA), the amount produced is quite low (approx. 2–5%). These most biologically active fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are not found in our dogs’ typical diet. Today, too much omega-6 is being administered through dog food—in meat, dry food, dairy products, and some vegetable oils, such as sunflower and safflower oil. And because omega-6 and omega-3 compete for the same enzyme system, an imbalance can lead to the few omega-3 fatty acids being displaced without being utilized. One consequence of this is that more arachidonic acid (from omega-6) is produced, which can promote or possibly even cause inflammation and allergies. An adequate supply of omega-3 with EPA can act as an anti-inflammatory counterbalance to omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 is essential for BARF (raw feeding)!

The ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids we provide through our dog’s diet is crucial to their health.

Many dog owners therefore turn to fish oil to balance out or prevent an excess of omega-6. But be careful! Fish are living creatures that feed on phytoplankton. And humans kill and process fish contaminated with radioactive radiation and pollutants (e.g., pesticides, hormones, drug residues, and plasticizers) to extract omega-3. In addition, the toxins absorbed by the fish from the sea (heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead), which are stored in the fish’s fatty tissue, are also ingested by the dog through the oil. Fish oil is a byproduct of the global fishing industry—often from unregulated Asian factories with low quality standards—and undergoes many different processing steps to create a product suitable for consumption from fish slaughter byproducts. When fish oil/omega-3 oil oxidizes—that is, reacts with oxygen from the air—so-called lipid peroxides, as well as harmful aldehydes and ketones, are formed. These oxidation byproducts are responsible for the unpleasant, rancid odor. Scientific evidence suggests that lipid peroxidation can lead to DNA damage. We must also not forget the already problematic issue of overfishing in the seas and the resulting expansion of dead zones in our oceans.

Our phytoplankton powder is a high-quality dietary supplement. It contains the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), trace elements, chlorophyll, amino acids, protein, carotenoids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Environmentally conscious> Compared to fish oil, the production of omega-3 fatty acids from Schizochytrium sp. and Nannochloropsis is more environmentally friendly and does not contribute to overfishing.

Just a few of the areas where our phytoplankton can be used

To support

• the immune system
• brain and nerve function
• during brain development—important in puppies and young dogs
• for skin health
• mobility and joint health
• the body’s own cellular function
• in inflammatory processes
• the gastrointestinal tract
• for increased energy needs (dog sports, working dogs, etc.)
• for natural heart function
• during stress
• as a plant-based omega-6 supplement
• for vegan diets
• especially with BARF

The polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid EPA is present in phytoplankton in its original, natural form (phospholipid) and thus exhibits higher bioavailability. This allows the body to absorb these valuable fatty acids more effectively and efficiently.

Where does the phytoplankton come from?

We source our phytoplankton from the Netherlands. There, it is cultivated in aquaculture at an unspoiled location on the shores of the Markermeer. The phytoplankton grows sustainably in pristine, filtered seawater (130,000-year-old Pleistocene) that is free of contaminants and heavy metals. The seawater is extracted deep below the surface.

If your pet has health issues or symptoms, contact your veterinary naturopath or veterinarian.

Legal Notice: This product is intended for animal nutrition and is therefore not subject to the German Law on the Advertising of Medicinal Products (HWG). Good nutritional status can help the organism prevent or overcome illnesses. All statements made about the product describe properties and physiological effects that may naturally vary among animals. They do not constitute any promises of healing or health benefits.

Source:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4681158/

https://www.luckynumberfive.com/2017/12/28/omega3-oxidation/

Packaging:
We use compostable bags made from plant-based materials. The paper is produced from agricultural waste and has the same qualities and properties as regular paper. The key difference, however, is that no trees need to be cut down for “PaperWise”! (Plastic-free. No PE coating. Keimling certified.)

natural.eco-conscious.napani.