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DHAid™ - omega-3 DHA from a vegetarian source

DHAid™ is a pure vegetarian source of omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is produced from microalgae in a controlled process in fermentation vessels. Due to its renewable sources DHAid™ is environmentally friendly. DHAid™ is allergen free and is free of potential contaminants that are discussed for seafood.

There are distinct types of omega-3 fatty acids that are ingested with the diet and used by the body. These are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) as well as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Whereas ALA can be found most abundantly in foods, it has become clear that DHA is the most important omega-3 fatty acid for human health, particularly in the areas of brain, heart and eye health. It occurs naturally as a building block of cell membranes and contributes to membrane properties such as fluidity, flexibility and permeability. In respect of this background the uptake of DHA from the diet might be critical for maintaining adequate membrane DHA concentrations. Therefore, Health Organisations throughout the world have made specific recommendations to increase DHA levels.

In a study including more than 100 healthy vegetarians, 8 weeks of DHAid™ supplementation was found to significantly increase both their DHA and EPA plasma levels compared with placebo.

Using naturally occurring microalgae, Lonza’s innovative technology allows DHA oils to be produced with superior quality. During the unique production process in fermentation vessels, microalgae are grown in large volumes and accumulate significant quantities of DHA. Then, DHAid™ is extracted from the dried microalgae and refined in processes that are very similar to those used in the production of conventional vegetable oils.

Lonza is producing and offering DHAid™ in different forms: Lonza DHA FNO (Functional Nutrition Oil) is a food-grade oil which contains at least 40% DHA of total fatty acids. Lonza DHA FNO is best suited for use in food products, especially enriched foods. Lonza DHA CL (Clear Liquid) is a clear food-grade oil with at least 43% DHA of total fatty acids. Lonza DHA CL is especially developed for use in dietary supplements (soft gels), where the oil is visible in the capsules, but it can also be used in any other food application. Lonza DHA Dry is a free-flowing powder with at least 10% DHA. Specially developed for use in dry mixes, like powdered special nutrition beverages, the DHA is embedded in a matrix of casein and corn starch.

Further information can be found at www.dhaid.info