Omega-3 oils are only as good as they are fresh: omega-3 fatty acids are naturally reactive and prone to oxidation processes, leading to rancidity. Oxidised omega-3 fatty acids produce primary fatty acid peroxides, which further degrade into secondary oxidation products, such as aldehydes (e.g., malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxyhexenal). Assessing oxidative by-products is therefore vital to guarantee the quality of omega-3 supplements.
To gauge omega-3 oil oxidation, three key values are employed: the peroxide value (PV), p-anisidine value and the TOTOX value, the latter of which is calculated from anisidine and peroxide values (TOTOX value = p-anisidine value + (2 * PV)).
The TOTOX value (TOTal OXidation) is an internationally recognised indicator which assesses overall oxidation levels in fats and oils, serving as an important barometer of their freshness. The anisidine value (AV) measures aldehyde formation during fat oxidation, revealing whether the oil was processed and stored correctly. The peroxide value (PV) quantifies the state of oxidation. Higher TOTOX values indicate greater rancidity.
We continuously monitor our omega-3 products for anisidine and peroxide values, not only at the raw material stage but also after the oil has been filled into our capsules and bottles at the final product stage. During production, we take the greatest possible care to ensure that all contact with oxygen is minimised in order to prevent oxidation processes. We prioritise the freshness of our raw materials and proper end-product storage, minimising extended storage times.
Official bodies (IFOS, IKOS, GOED, GMBI) stipulate that the following limits must not be exceeded:
- Peroxide value (PV): maximum 5 mEq/kg
- Anisidine value (AV): maximum 20
- TOTOX value: maximum 26
Depending on the product's composition, laboratory analysis of the TOTOX value can be technically challenging, or potentially skewed by ingredients such as lemon oil. In such cases, we rely on measuring and stating the Peroxide value instead.
A TOTOX value greater than 26 indicates that the omega-3 oil is spoiled and should no longer be consumed. A TOTOX value below 20, or a Peroxide value below 5, signifies a fresh, high-quality oil. Ideally, omega-3 products should be stored protected from light at the bottom of the refrigerator. The low temperature significantly slows down the oxidation process of the algae oil. This applies both before opening and especially after the packaging has been opened.
If the taste or smell of the algae oil deteriorates despite proper storage, this indicates premature oxidation. This can be caused, for example, by contact between the dosing pipette and the mouth or tongue, or by improper storage.
Our products exhibit values well below the recommended thresholds.