5 Facts You Should Know About Krill and Krill Oil.

Krill Group

Krill contains long chain Omega-3 fatty acids EPA & DHA, as well as phospholipids, choline and astaxanthin. Compared to other sources, krill is one of the most underexploited marine sources of Omega-3s on Earth.

Here’s more on krill and krill oil.

1) What are krill?

Krill are crustaceans, not fish.

So what Is a crustacean? Crustaceans are a very diverse group of invertebrate animals. You are probably more familiar with some other crustaceans – crabs, lobsters and shrimp. The word ‘crustacean’ comes from the Latin word ‘crusta’, which means shell.

2) Where do krill live?

This tiny shrimp-like creature is found in all the world's five oceans, but they only swim in huge swarms around Antarctica. These swarms can become so large and dense they have previously been seen from outer space! Because krill live at the bottom of the food chain, down deep in the pristine waters of the Antarctic, there is little industry or agriculture to contaminate the water with toxins.

3) What do krill eat?

Krill feed on microalgae. This is the source of the potent antioxidant astaxanthin, which gives krill oil its distinctive red color and, more importantly, acts as a natural preservative.

4) What nutrients does krill oil provide?

Antarctic krill oil represents a healthy source of the Omega-3s eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are among the most researched nutritional ingredients in the world today, according to the Global Organization of EPA & DHA Omega-3s. Omega-3 EPA & DHA support immune, heart, brain, joint, eye and skin health.* Krill oil also contains choline, an essential nutrient which supports brain and metabolic health.

5) Is harvesting krill sustainable?

Krill are sustainably harvested. The Antarctic krill fishery is one of the most sustainably managed fisheries in the world, notable for low harvesting levels. It has been recognized as sustainable by many leading organizations. The krill fishery also takes proactive steps to protect other Antarctic wildlife.