Krill Oil in OEM/ODM Supplements: Phospholipid, EPA & DHA Assays

Write separate composition requirements

A krill oil brief should not use phospholipid content as a substitute for EPA and DHA content. Phospholipids describe a lipid class, while EPA and DHA identify particular fatty acids. NIH notes that krill oil contains omega-3s primarily in phospholipids, but a purchasing specification still needs separate measurements for the quantities the project actually controls.

Identify the intended krill species and exact supplied grade. If the ingredient is blended with another oil, record the blend composition and permitted changes. A product called krill oil blend may create a different label, assay, and sourcing discussion from an unblended ingredient.

Ask how phospholipids are measured

Request the analytical method, reporting unit, and whether the result represents total phospholipids or particular classes. Compare certificates using the same definition. An assay based on one measured marker may not be directly comparable to a different method without an explanation of how each result is obtained.

Keep phospholipid mass outside an EPA/DHA sum. Adding all three percentages together can double-count material because fatty acids are components of lipid molecules. For a marketing comparison, show independently defined attributes rather than constructing a total potency number from quantities that overlap chemically.

Review allergen and source records

Obtain source species, processing information, and supplier allergen documentation for the actual material. FDA allergen guidance addresses crustacean shellfish and ingredients containing their protein, as well as specific exceptions. Have the responsible label reviewer assess the supplied krill preparation using that information, rather than deciding from the oil name alone.

Record controls for handling the ingredient alongside other oils. The relevant question extends beyond what is printed on a certificate: the receiving, storage, blending, and cleaning records must support the intended manufacturing arrangement. Resolve missing documentation before the brand commits to any allergen-related presentation.

Assess color, texture, and fill behavior

Establish a practical appearance reference because color can affect the finished softgel presentation. Measure the physical properties needed for the intended fill equipment with the actual grade. If the material changes during storage, compare warmed and unwarmed observations under a defined procedure instead of informally heating samples until they look alike.

In development, evaluate the complete fill against the proposed shell, including any flavor or antioxidant additions. Track leakage, sticking, appearance, and the agreed capsule performance measurements. A visually attractive red sample does not establish compatibility or demonstrate the amounts of individual fatty acids.

Choose matrix-appropriate quality measurements

Ask the laboratory which oxidation-related methods are suitable for the phospholipid-rich and colored matrix. Do not automatically transplant a test approach from a pale, unflavored triglyceride oil. If interference is suspected, the report should explain the limitation and the alternative evidence used for this material.

Close the sourcing record with independently defined EPA, DHA, phospholipid, appearance, and contaminant criteria. Changes to blending oil or lipid composition should trigger a review of calculations and analytical suitability. A stable product specification makes future lots easier to compare without treating every krill ingredient as equivalent.

Explore relevant dosage forms

Compare manufacturing considerations for your intended product. Suitability depends on the complete formulation.

Common questions