Krill Oil vs Fish Oil: Why Astaxanthin Sets Krill Apart

When it comes to omega-3 supplements, most people reach for fish oil without a second thought. Krill oil comes from Antarctic krill, small crustaceans; our Krill Oil Antarctic gives 500 mg krill oil per softgel.

The most fundamental distinction between krill oil and fish oil is the form in which their omega-3 fatty acids are carried. Fish oil typically provides omega-3s as triglycerides, which the body must first break down before they can be absorbed. Krill oil, by contrast, delivers its EPA and DHA predominantly as phospholipids — the same type of fat that makes up your cell membranes. In krill oil, much of the EPA and DHA is carried as phospholipids (200 mg per softgel on our label).

This antioxidant is not present in standard fish oil. Krill oil naturally contains astaxanthin, a red pigment (100 µg per softgel on our label).

One of the most common complaints about fish oil is the unpleasant aftertaste or "fishy burps" that can occur hours after swallowing a capsule. Krill oil softgels are small (500 mg). The capsules themselves are also significantly smaller — often half the size of a standard fish oil softgel — making them easier to swallow, especially for those who struggle with large pills. For many people, this simple difference is enough to switch and stick with krill oil for the long term.

Environmental impact matters more than ever, and here krill oil holds a meaningful edge. Antarctic krill are one of the most abundant biomasses on the planet, and the fishery is managed under strict quotas by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). The krill fishery is managed under CCAMLR quotas.

Choosing between krill oil and fish oil ultimately comes down to what you value most. Krill oil and fish oil are two sources of EPA and DHA. Our Krill Oil Antarctic label says it is not intended for use by pregnant or lactating mothers, and people with coagulopathy or taking blood thinning medication should consult their doctor before use.

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Krill Oil Antarctic — 60 Softgels

£16.49

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Vitadefence supplements are food supplements, not medicines. Consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or have a medical condition.

From the Krill Oil Antarctic label: Not suitable for persons with an allergy to FISH or SHELLFISH. People with coagulopathy or taking blood thinning medication should consult their doctor before use. Not intended for use by pregnant or lactating mothers.