A Comparative Analysis and Production Insights on Ahiflower®

In the realm of omega-3 supplementation, Ahiflower® has emerged as a noteworthy contender, boasting a distinct composition and metabolic impact compared to traditional fish oil-derived omega-3. In this exploration, we unravel the rudimentary comparison between Ahiflower and fish-oil-derived omega-3, shedding light on their compositional and metabolic disparities.

Compositional Comparison

Let's first delve into the compositional differences between Ahiflower-derived omega-3 and fish-oil-derived omega-3. Typically, fish oil contains approximately 30% total omega-3, with 18% EPA and 12% DHA. In contrast, Ahiflower oil presents a remarkable composition, comprising 65% total omega-3, with 20% SDA and 45% ALA. This distinctive profile sets Ahiflower apart, offering a higher concentration of essential fatty acids crucial for various health benefits.

Ahiflower's omega-3 composition is unique due to its significant SDA content, a rarity in plant sources. Combined with ALA found in flax and chia, Ahiflower becomes a powerful source for efficiently producing EPA and DHA, vital for cardiovascular, joint, and cognitive health. Notably, Ahiflower also contains omega-6 GLA (6%), absent in fish oil and algal EPA/DHA sources, recognized for its anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing properties.

Metabolic Distinctions

The metabolic aspect further differentiates Ahiflower from traditional fish oil-derived omega-3. Ahiflower provides precursor omega-3s, allowing the body to internally produce EPA and DHA as needed. This metabolic pathway is distinct from fish oil, which contains preformed EPA and DHA. The body's ability to generate its own EPA and DHA through Ahiflower's precursor omega-3s appears to yield additional benefits and demonstrates a self-regulating mechanism, producing the required amounts as needed, unlike preset daily levels.

Ahiflower Production: A Natural and Sustainable Process

Addressing the complexity of Ahiflower-derived omega-3 production, it's essential to understand the technology and processes involved. Ahiflower is cultivated as a biodiverse oilseed crop, similar to flax, with cold/expeller pressing of its small seeds to extract oil. The oil undergoes light refinement, involving physical processes like steam distillation, clay, and carbon filtration to remove impurities, ensuring a clean and natural end product.

The production of Ahiflower-derived omega-3 is remarkably straightforward, resembling the manufacture of olive oil. The entire supply chain is designed to be clean, green, and low-risk. What sets Ahiflower apart is its minimal input requirements and cultivation using regenerative agricultural practices. Importantly, the production process avoids the use of chemical solvents, contributing to a sustainable and environmentally friendly omega-3 source.

Overcoming R&D Challenges

The journey of Ahiflower faced initial challenges in developing wild-type weed varieties of Buglossoides arvensis. Through natural selection and conventional breeding techniques, a superior set of seed lines gradually emerged over two decades of patient and persistent efforts. These patented varieties demonstrated climate resilience, providing reliable yields, stable crop rotation, and resistance to environmental challenges, earning Ahiflower the prestigious 'Best of British' award for Food Innovation in 2017.

One industry-level challenge involved the under-recognition of SDA's efficient DHA metabolism, a paradigm shift from the established understanding of EPA/DHA metabolism. Overcoming this required collaborative research efforts and technological advancements, marking a significant turning point in acknowledging the unique benefits of Ahiflower-derived omega-3.

Pros of Ahiflower Derived Omega-3s

The benefits of Ahiflower-derived omega-3s extend across species, including humans, dogs, horses, and poultry. The efficient conversion and supply of Ahiflower's omega-3s to longer-chain EPA and DHA in key tissues underscore its efficacy. Importantly, Ahiflower's plant-based nature overcomes sensory challenges, consumer preferences, and concerns over environmental contaminants faced by fish oil.

Ahiflower's science-backed findings emphasize its role as a sustainable and functional alternative to conventional fish oil. By avoiding excessive circulating omega-3 DHA, Ahiflower enables the body to form a broader range of anti-inflammatory omega-3 metabolites, enhancing its overall effectiveness.

In conclusion, Ahiflower emerges not only as a compositionally rich omega-3 source but also as a product of sustainable and technologically advanced production processes, overcoming R&D challenges with resilience. Its unique metabolic pathway and numerous benefits position Ahiflower as a frontrunner in the evolving landscape of omega-3 supplementation.