We all know that pet parents are paying more and more attention to the food they are feeding their pets. As a result of this, they also want to know all about the nutritional needs of their furry family members.
Omega-3 is one of those important nutrients for humans and pets alike. Antarctic krill, a tiny crustacean that swims in the clear waters of Antarctica, is a superior source of omega-3s.
Here are 5 reasons why pet parents should know more about the mighty krill.
1. Meeting their pet’s nutritional needs
Paying attention to their pet’s nutritional needs, particularly the omega-3s ones, means that pet parents will need to purchase pet food that contains a well-balanced ratio of omega-6s and omega-3s. All pets need omega-3s and there are a variety of ways to get them. And research has shown that adding krill to pet food contributes to an optimal level of omega-3s in a pet’s body.
2. Krill is a superior source of omega-3
Krill delivers beneficial levels of omega-3s, which are unique in structure and function. The omega-3s found in krill are EPA & DHA, supporting the health of several vital organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, joints, brain, eyes, skin, and coat. The unique distinction of omega-3 from krill is their phospholipid form.
Recent studies have shown that the phospholipid form of omega-3s from krill are more effective in raising omega-3 levels in a dog’s body compared to triglyceride-based omega-3s, such as those found in fish oil.
Read more on how important are the right omega-3s for pets
3. Krill is more than an omega-3 source
Krill is a functional marine ingredient that delivers more than just omega-3s. Krill is also naturally rich in natural choline – a conditionally essential nutrient with many health benefits, powerful astaxanthin – a natural antioxidant that protects all body cells from oxidative damage and tasty marine proteins.
Choline is also an essential nutrient for a healthy liver and important for brain health. Another study done by Aker BioMarine shows that dogs on a krill diet had a significant raise in their choline levels. This means that both omega-3s and choline attached to phospholipids are highly effective and valuable. (Study)
Read more about the health benefits of choline
4. Krill is rich in tasty marine proteins
Due to its high marine protein content, krill is highly palatable for pets and an attractive protein source. Pets parents can therefore give their pets a healthy and tasty meal.
A study performed by Aker BioMarine showed that 9 out of 10 dogs preferred the food that included Antarctic dried krill meal in it.
5. Krill is sustainable
Krill comes from one of the most sustainable fisheries in the world and is the first krill ingredient for pets certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as being sustainable and traceable from sea to the product.
Is krill a sustainable ingredient for the pet food industry?
Krill, a sustainable marine ingredient for pets
Krill is a great addition to every pet’s diet, being a source of omega-3, choline, the antioxidant astaxanthin, and tasty marine proteins. More than that, this unique functional marine ingredient also carries the highest-ranking sustainability certificate (MSC) on the market. The MSC certification ensures that this ingredient's entire supply chain can be traced back to the location it originates from.
