Marine oils

Marine oils are lipids derived from marine animals, including fish oils (from anchovy, sardine, menhaden, tuna), squid oils, seal oils and whale oils — the latter now largely of historical interest. They are valued for long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) used in foods, infant formulas, dietary supplements, aquaculture feeds and pharmaceuticals. Because they are highly unsaturated, they oxidise readily: refining (degumming, neutralising, bleaching, deodorising), antioxidant addition, nitrogen blanketing and cold, dark storage protect quality, with peroxide and anisidine values monitored. Sourcing must be sustainable (certified fisheries) and contaminants — heavy metals, dioxins, PCBs — controlled within regulatory limits, verified by testing.