Encyclopedia of Vital Substances

Bioavailability of algal oil  

The bioavailability of algal oil is in no way inferior to that of fish oil. In comparative studies, fatty acid absorption of algal and fish oil was equally good and within a similar range. Some studies even suggest a potentially superior efficacy of algal oil compared to tuna oil , as algal oil demonstrated a more sustained, longer-term release and greater intestinal digestibility.  

Algae cultivation  

Algae can be cultivated in three different ways. There are open tanks in which the algae can be cultivated, and closed bioreactors. There are two different types of bioreactors: photobioreactors , which use constant light as energy for cultivation and thus consume electricity for lighting, and heterotrophic bioreactors, which use carbon sources as energy and thus consume energy for constant gas exchange, but allow for higher biomass.  

Algal oil and the environment  

The constant demand for fish for their unique nutritional value, such as omega-3 fatty acids, causes fish stocks to increase to a maximum each year to supply fish for human consumption, which significantly impacts fish populations and leads to the possibility of extinction. Supplying the required aquaculture is accompanied by marine pollution from chemicals, antibiotics, and broken net cages. While algal oil consumes energy such as electricity to grow the algae in bioreactors , it is generally a more environmentally friendly alternative to most fish sources. The algae's ability to sequester CO2 contributes to its sustainability by helping to reduce the carbon footprint of its production. Furthermore, algae can be produced on non-arable land using non-potable water (including brackish or seawater). Because algae can grow densely, one study has shown that algae can produce 167 times more useful biomass annually than corn when using the same area.  

Which AgilNature ® products contain DHA and EPA algae oil ? 

Origin and history :  

The pea ( Pisum sativum ) has been an important crop and part of the human diet for thousands of years . Each pod contains several seeds, which can have green or yellow peas when ripe. It has been cultivated since 8,000 BC , making it one of the oldest cultivated plants. Originally it grows wild in Asia Minor, but has spread worldwide and was at times considered a delicacy in cultures such as medieval Europe. The plant is rich in nutrients and has become increasingly popular in recent years as a vegan alternative to protein powders due to its numerous health and sustainability benefits.  

Characteristics :  

A protein source that is quite unexpected for many people is peas. The average protein content of peas is around 22%. Rich in protein, minerals and vitamins such as Rich in vitamin B , as well as being high in fiber and low in fat , pea protein is a good protein alternative for anyone who wants to avoid animal products. In addition, plant-based protein sources are associated with a lower risk of various metabolic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease than animal-based sources. Pea protein is generally hypoallergenic and has numerous health benefits, such as antioxidant, blood pressure lowering, cholesterol lowering and anti-inflammatory properties. Blood sugar also rises less after meals when pea protein is consumed. The high fiber content also benefits the intestines and has an activating effect on them . In addition, flatulence occurs less frequently. due to the high digestibility of the product.  

What makes peas such an excellent source of protein is not only the protein content, but also the fact that they contain all 9 essential amino acids. While the sulfur-containing amino acids are contained in smaller quantities, the lysine content is very high. All amino acids that our body cannot produce itself and that must be taken in through food are considered essential. This is usually not the case with plant-based protein sources , but peas and some other plants such as soybeans are an exception.  

Pea protein is a preferred choice for many people due to its hypoallergenicity and the fact that it is GMO-free. Unlike rice or hemp protein, which can be lower in certain essential amino acids  

environmental friendliness  

Compared to other protein-rich foods and other protein products such as whey and soy protein powders , the production of pea protein powder is much better for the environment. The reason for this is the lower amount of water and fertilizers needed. For example, 1 g of protein from beef requires 6 times more water than 1 g of protein from peas.  

Peas are known for their ability to fix nitrogen from the air, which reduces the need for artificial fertilizers and contributes to soil health. These sustainable farming practices make pea protein not only a healthy choice, but also an environmentally friendly one.  

target group  

For athletes, pea protein offers an effective way to support muscle building and recovery, while for vegans and vegetarians it plays an essential role in ensuring adequate protein intake. People with gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance can also benefit from pea protein as it is a safe and tolerable source of protein.  

Quality  

When purchasing pea protein products, it is important to pay attention to the quality and origin. Products made from non-GMO peas without the addition of artificial colors or flavors offer the purest form of the protein. Third-party certifications can further confirm the quality and sustainability of the product.  

 Which AgilNature ® products contain pea protein ?