The health benefits of Omega-3 DHA for human health are well established (see below). Traditionally, Omega-3 supplements have been derived from fish or krill oils, but this is increasingly seen as unsustainable, and problematic due to toxicity from heavy metals and pesticides. In addition, fish has a strong off-flavor that requires a lot of chemical processing in order to formulate in food, beverages and dietary supplements.
Algarithm’s AlphaMega3 algal Omega-3 DHA oil is derived from a strain of wild-crafted microalgae initially discovered and isolated from pristine coastal waters at the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia. Providing a minimum of 400mg/g of omega-3 DHA, the algal oil undergoes an environmentally-friendly, chemical-free extraction process to eliminate virtually all traces of taste and odor – making the “beautifully tasteless” oil an ideal ingredient in foods and beverages where manufacturers want the nutritional benefits of plant-derived Omega-3 DHA without an underlying marine smell or taste. Algarithm then works closely with partner Virun®, utilizing their Esolv® technology to encapsulate the oil in a way that minimizes oxidation and ensures a high quality algal oil powder.
In order to demonstrate the sensory experience of beverages formulated with our BetaMega3 algal oil powder, and the relative ease of doing it, our formulation scientist Mia developed a tasty and refreshing matcha latte (see prep guide below).
A strong advocate of “Let food be thy medicine,” Mia believes food plays a significant role in daily life and overall wellness, both physically and mentally. Therefore she carefully selects what is going into the formulation, in her role as a formulation scientist.
To meet ever-changing consumer demand, Mia believes that a food product has to be functional and palatable at the same time so that consumers can actually gain the health benefits from it and enjoy it as a food concurrently.
Delivering Omega-3’s in alternative delivery systems to softgels has been a core area of focus for Algarithm since the beginning. We believe there are a number of consumer trends that support the interest of alternative delivery systems such as beverages. These new delivery systems help to address pill fatigue, consumer convenience, swallowing / choking hazards for children, etc.
To combine the health benefits of vegan Omega-3 DHA and green tea, we developed a matcha latte infused with DHA from encapsulated algal oil powder. For each cup (250ml) of DHA matcha latte, it provides 120 mg of DHA.
DHA matcha latte is lightly sweetened, full-bodied and is a strong matcha flavored beverage that quenches your thirst. It is vegan friendly, and allergen-free. People tried the matcha latte at NURIV Expo and loved the taste and mouthfeel (photo above).
To prepare a DHA matcha latte, first prepare the matcha latte dry blend, using a combination of matcha tea and Algarithm’s BetaMega3 powder. Once the dry blend is prepared, simply add the matcha latte blend into your favorite milk and blended till smooth. For the best experience, we recommend using Silk Original Coconut Milk to enhance the fruitiness, creamy mouthfeel and refreshing taste. Download fact sheet here.
Matcha is a finely grounded green tea powder and it originates from the same plant Camellia sinensis as black tea, oolong tea and white tea. Tea has been long associated with its antioxidant and anti-aging properties, and it is considered one of the best drinks for consumers with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. To compound the anti-inflammation properties of green tea, DHA is introduced.
DHA is a long chain Omega-3 poly-unsaturated fatty acid naturally found in breast milk. It is an essential nutrient we must obtain from food sources. It provides an array of health benefits along the lifelong journey. From fetal development,maintaining body structure,energy signaling, eye and brain health to better mood and anti-depression; DHA is beneficial to every step of our life.
While our standard algal DHA oil can be widely found in dietary supplement applications, at Algarithm, we’re thinking outside the softgel. We developed and improved delivery choices, combating pill fatigue with our range of offerings such as:
• Emulsified oils with a creamy, non-oily texture
• Tasteless, odorless, shelf-stable oils
• Heat-stable powders
Formulation Scientist
Co-founder & Chief Scientific Officer