At the upcoming Petfood Forum Europe 2026, Julian Pietrzyk, a technical product manager at MiAlgae Ltd., will discuss the essential role of omega-3 fatty acids in pet nutrition. His talk, titled “Perceptions, sources and the evolving role of long-chain omega-3s in pet nutrition,” will shed light on the differences between the three main types: EPA, DHA, and ALA.
Pietrzyk emphasizes that not all omega-3s are created equal. He believes the key takeaway is understanding how these forms affect pet health. Research indicates that while most veterinarians recognize that omega-3s are beneficial, many don’t fully grasp which types provide specific health advantages. According to a survey of 100 vets, EPA and DHA significantly support inflammation management, skin health, joint mobility, cognitive function, and heart health. Meanwhile, ALA needs to be converted by pets’ bodies into EPA and DHA, a process that is often inefficient, especially in cats and dogs.
With pet owners becoming increasingly label-conscious, Pietrzyk warns that many products claim to contain omega-3s without specifying the type. This can lead to well-meaning choices that don’t provide the desired health benefits for pets. He stated, “Without this understanding, even the best intentions can fall short.”
This knowledge also affects how pet food is developed. While plant sources rich in ALA might seem appealing due to their cost or sustainability, they don’t always offer the benefits that EPA and DHA provide.
Pietrzyk highlighted another issue: many fish oils may not have the levels of omega-3s they claim. Often, ALA dominates the omega-3 profile, leading to questions about ingredient quality.
He plans to share insights from independent surveys that show a general agreement among veterinarians about the importance of omega-3s, yet a disparity in understanding their different forms. Similarly, manufacturers recognize the sustainability concerns tied to traditional long-chain omega-3 sources. For example, salmon oil, a common ingredient, often has lower DHA and EPA levels than expected.
Looking ahead, Pietrzyk anticipates significant changes in omega-3 sourcing. Overfishing, climate change, and rising demand in both human and animal nutrition will put pressure on traditional fish oil supplies. This scarcity could elevate prices and affect quality.
As a result, the industry is likely to shift towards alternative sources like algae. Algae-derived omega-3s can match the benefits of fish oils while avoiding environmental and ethical concerns. “Sustainability is becoming a must-have rather than a nice-to-have,” he noted. Advances in algae production will mean higher concentrations and better consistency. MiAlgae even produces DHA using by-products from whisky production, offering a contaminant-free choice.
The Petfood Forum Europe will take place in Nuremberg, Germany, on May 11, 2026. This one-day conference coincides with Interzoo, the pet supplies trade fair. Attendees can expect a day filled with valuable presentations, networking opportunities, and discussions that will help shape the future of pet nutrition.
For more details, you can visit the official Petfood Forum Europe site.
