Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: 18 September 2026.
Algae oil completes a circle: fish get their EPA and DHA from eating algae — we get it directly from the source. Microalgae fermentation in controlled bioreactors provides the same omega-3 fatty acids as fish, without a fishy taste, practically without heavy metals and without overfishing. At Plenthera you will find premium algae oil in plant-based softgels from Plantforce and Nordic Naturals — for vegans, pregnant women and anyone who does not want to eat fish without compromising on EPA/DHA.
Which algae oil suits you?
This is what the market looks like — at Plenthera you will find the softgel forms:
| Form | EPA/DHA per serving | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Softgels EPA + DHA (at Plenthera) | 250-750 mg total | Daily basis, heart, brain, eyes |
| DHA-rich softgels (at Plenthera) | 300-500 mg DHA | Brain/eye focus, pregnancy |
| Liquid (drops) | Variable | Those who do not want capsules, children |
| Prenatal formulas | 300+ mg DHA | Pregnancy |
| Children's formulas | Adjusted | Children, vegan families |
What is algae oil?
Algae oil is a plant-based (vegan) omega-3 supplement extracted from microalgae, mainly Schizochytrium sp. It contains EPA and DHA — the same omega-3 fatty acids as in fish oil. Algae are the original source of EPA and DHA in the food chain.
An often-forgotten fact: fish do not produce omega-3 themselves. They get EPA and DHA from eating zooplankton, which in turn eats microalgae — the ultimate producer of these fatty acids in the ocean food chain. By harvesting directly from microalgae, you skip a few trophic levels: practically no risk of accumulation of heavy metals, dioxins or PCBs (which can build up in fish), no overfishing and no fishy taste.
Commercial algae oil is produced in controlled bioreactors — not wild harvested, but by fermentation of selected algae strains on a sugar substrate. The oil is then mechanically pressed or extracted using mild solvents. Well-known producers are DSM (life'sDHA) and Corbion — with traceable production chains.
For those choosing between fish oil and algae oil: EPA and DHA are molecularly identical — the EFSA claims apply to both. The choice is therefore about philosophy (plant-based or not), practical preference (fishy taste) and sustainability. Also see our fish oil category for the Nordic Naturals/Green Pasture route and our omega 3 category for the broader context with krill oil and plant-based ALA.
Algae oil and EFSA — what is scientifically recognised?
EPA and DHA from algae oil have the same EFSA claims as those from fish oil. The following wordings may be used literally — provided the threshold is met:
"DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart." (250 mg/day)
"DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function." (250 mg/day)
"DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision." (250 mg/day)
"Maternal intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) contributes to the normal brain development of the foetus and breastfed infants." (200 mg DHA/day on top of the usual 250 mg EPA+DHA)
"Maternal intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) contributes to the normal development of the eye of the foetus and breastfed infants." (200 mg DHA/day)
"Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake contributes to the normal visual development of infants up to 12 months of age." (100 mg DHA/day)
Thresholds as indicated above. Our algae oil softgels provide 250-750 mg EPA+DHA per serving and therefore comfortably exceed the 250 mg threshold.
Algae oil vs fish oil — which suits you?
EPA/DHA: Identical at the molecular level. EFSA claims apply to both. Clinical studies show comparable increases in blood levels.
Taste: Algae oil: neutral, no fishy taste. Fish oil: can have a fishy taste (especially with oxidation or lower quality).
Purity: Algae oil: practically no heavy metals, dioxins or PCBs — controlled bioreactor production. Fish oil: also very clean with premium brands (Nordic Naturals, IFOS-tested), but the wild fish origin theoretically means a risk.
Sustainability: Algae oil: no overfishing, a lower ecological footprint. Fish oil: sustainable with MSC-certified products, but the industrial scale puts pressure on the oceans.
Concentration/dosage: Fish oil can reach higher EPA/DHA concentrations (rTG concentrated, ethyl ester). Algae oil typically provides 250-750 mg per serving — sufficient for most goals.
Price: Algae oil is generally slightly more expensive than fish oil. The difference is shrinking — the production scale is growing.
Target group: Algae oil: vegans, pregnant women (no vitamin A issue as with cod liver oil), children, people with a fish allergy. Fish oil: traditionalists, those who prefer the longer clinical history.
Algae oil at Plenthera
Plantforce Vegan Omega-3 (softgels)
Plant-based softgels with EPA and DHA from Schizochytrium algae oil from the Dutch brand Plantforce. For the daily basis (heart, brain, eyes) and as a vegan alternative to fish oil. Also available as a 3+1 value pack.
Nordic Naturals Algae Omega (softgels, 715 mg omega 3)
Vegan algae oil from the American premium house Nordic Naturals, with 715 mg omega-3 (EPA + DHA) per serving of two softgels. For those who want a higher daily dosage with the same quality standard as Nordic Naturals fish oil.
Other forms on the market
Liquid algae oil (drops) for children or those who do not want capsules, prenatal formulas with an increased DHA dosage and children's formulas with an adjusted dosage. We do not currently stock these forms; the EPA+DHA softgels above cover the pregnancy claim (200 mg DHA extra) at a suitable dosage. Also see the advice of the Gezondheidsraad (Health Council of the Netherlands) on omega-3 in pregnancy.
How do you use algae oil?
A simple basic approach to algae oil:
- Determine your goal: daily basis (250-500 mg EPA+DHA), pregnancy (an extra 200 mg DHA) or simply a vegan replacement for fish oil.
- Choose the dosage: Plantforce for the basis, Nordic Naturals Algae Omega for a higher daily dose.
- Always take with a fat-containing meal for optimal absorption.
- Split higher dosages over two moments.
- Store in a cool, dark place — omega-3 can oxidise.
- For pregnancy: check the DHA per softgel on the label so that you reach 200 mg DHA extra — without the vitamin A issue that applies to cod liver oil.
- If you use blood thinners (especially warfarin) at high dosages: consult a doctor beforehand.
Myths and misconceptions about algae oil
Myth 1: "Algae oil works less well than fish oil."
Incorrect. At the molecular level, EPA and DHA are identical — the same EFSA claims. Clinical studies confirm comparable blood levels at the same dosage.
Myth 2: "Algae oil is only for vegans."
Not only — it is an excellent choice for pregnant women (no vitamin A issue), children, people with a fish allergy and anyone who does not want a fishy taste. Vegan status is an advantage, not a limitation.
Myth 3: "Algae oil has less clinical evidence than fish oil."
Half true. The clinical history is shorter, but the molecules are identical to fish oil and all EPA/DHA research is therefore applicable. Research specific to algae oil has grown rapidly since 2010.
Myth 4: "Algae do not provide enough EPA."
No longer true in 2026. Early algae oil products were mainly DHA. Modern production (Schizochytrium strains) also provides EPA in significant amounts, sometimes in a 1:1 ratio with DHA.
Combining algae oil with other supplements
Algae oil is often combined within a heart, brain or pregnancy theme. Popular combinations:
- Vitamin D: for broad basic coverage, without the vitamin A component that cod liver oil brings.
- Vitamin E: "Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress" — often added to limit oxidation of EPA/DHA.
- Vitamin K2: bone and blood vessel theme.
- Multivitamin: for pregnancy with DHA, folic acid, iron and iodine together.
- Magnesium: "Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function" — in the heart and muscle theme.
- Q10: mitochondrial cluster in the heart theme.
Frequently asked questions
What is algae oil?
Plant-based omega-3 oil from microalgae — contains EPA and DHA, identical molecules to those in fish oil.
What is the difference between algae oil and fish oil?
Both provide EPA/DHA. Algae oil: vegan, no fishy taste, practically no heavy metals. Fish oil: a longer clinical history.
How much algae oil per day?
250-500 mg EPA+DHA for the basis, +200 mg DHA for pregnancy.
Does algae oil work as well as fish oil?
Yes. EFSA claims apply to both. Molecularly identical.
Is algae oil suitable during pregnancy?
Yes — no vitamin A issue as with cod liver oil. EFSA claim: maternal intake of DHA contributes to the normal brain and eye development of the foetus and breastfed infants.
Which algae oil is the best?
Choose a producer with traceable bioreactor production (DSM, Corbion) and a clear EPA/DHA content on the label. At Plenthera: Plantforce for the basis, Nordic Naturals Algae Omega for a higher dosage.
Algae oil for children — is that possible?
Yes — EFSA claim: DHA intake contributes to the normal visual development of infants up to 12 months of age (100 mg DHA/day). For young children, liquid forms on the market are more practical than softgels.
Does algae oil have side effects?
Generally well tolerated. At high dosages (>5 g EPA+DHA per day), attention to blood clotting.
Algae oil is vegan — really?
Yes, 100% plant-based. Microalgae fermentation in a bioreactor, plant-based softgel capsule. No animal components.
When should you take algae oil?
With a fat-containing meal for absorption. Split higher dosages.
Sources
- EFSA Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — EPA and DHA claims (algae oil identical to fish oil).
- Geppert J. et al., "Microalgal docosahexaenoic acid decreases plasma triacylglycerol", Br J Nutr (2006).
- Sanders TA. et al., "Effect of varying the ratio of DHA to EPA on biomarkers of CV health", J Nutr (2011).
- Doughman SD. et al., "Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Nutrition and Medicine: Considering Microalgae Oil as a Vegetarian Source", Curr Diabetes Rev (2007).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Algae oil is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.