Schizochytrium powder - It is a powder that is made from microalgae (Schizochytrium sp.), and is highly nutrient-dense, especially packed with polyunsaturated fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA). The powder is made from spray drying and usually comes as a powder of fine white or pale yellow, with a distinctive odor. Schizochytrium powder is widely used in animal feed, food supplements and nutraceuticals because of its DHA content and health benefits. This is an article about the various uses, health benefits and science behind the positive effects of Schizochytrium powder.
Nutritional Composition and Health Benefits
Schizochytrium powder is mainly coveted for the amount of DHA which is a valuable omega-3 fatty acid with health properties. Neben DHA, there are other bioactive elements present in Schizochytrium powder, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), carotenoids, polyphenols, squalene and amino acids.
| Nutrient | Benefit |
| DHA | Cardiovascular protection, cognitive function, eye health |
| EPA | Anti-inflammatory, immune system modulation |
| Carotenoids (β-carotene) | Antioxidant, protection against oxidative stress |
| Squalene | Immune support, antioxidant properties |
| Amino acids | Growth, tissue repair, essential physiological functions |
| β-glucans | Immune system enhancement, gut health promotion |
DHA is a structural component of the brain and retina and helps prevent inflammation, cholesterol, and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have also found that the use of Schizochytrium powder lowers blood lipids such as triglycerides and total cholesterol which increases cardiovascular protection. Additionally, DHA and EPA also synergistically enhance immunity by modulating macrophages, dendritic cells and lymphocytes, cellular signaling, and the immune system.
Antioxidants like carotenoids (β-carotene) and phenols also help in protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases such as cancer by neutralizing free radicals and suppressing inflammatory processes. Also infused is squalene, another powerful antioxidant that explains the powder's anti-oxidant effects.
Schizochytrium powder also contains digestible protein and essential amino acids, like arginine, lysine and methionine, to support normal body functions and to support growth and repair of tissues.
Health Benefits in Human Nutrition
Schizochytrium powder is of good nutritional value to the human body as a nutritional supplement.
- Cardiovascular Protection
Schizochytrium powder is a great source of DHA, which makes it a great cardio support supplement. DHA's anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effect reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and heart disease. Clinical trials also indicate that microalgal-sourced DHA has been found to reduce plasma triglycerides significantly and maintain cardiovascular health, which makes Schizochytrium powder an ideal alternative to standard fish oil supplements.
- Cognitive Function and Eye Health
DHA is important for the brain and eyes, so Schizochytrium powder is a good choice to help boost the brain and your eyes. The benefits of DHA in brain development and function are fairly well documented and there's already a large body of evidence suggesting that DHA is a great way to boost memory, learning and mood. DHA prevents age-related macular degeneration and other retinal diseases, so it is extremely beneficial for your eyes.
- Immune System Support
The actives of Schizochytrium powder (β-glucans, polyphenols) boost the immune system by activating immune cells like macrophages and dendritic cells. The chemicals also have a gut nutritive effect, stimulating the expansion of good gut bacteria to support immune function.
Applications in Animal Feed and Aquaculture
Schizochytrium powder has been extensively researched for use in animal feed (especially in poultry, hog and aquaculture). The powder's high nutrient content makes it a powerful addition for growth-boosting, meat quality-enhancement and overall health.
- Boosting Egg Productivity and Quality
In poultry, Schizochytrium powder added to chicken feed can increase egg production and change the composition of egg yolks containing fatty acids. Research has found that feeding laying hens with Schizochytrium powder produces higher eggs. Moreover, the powder increases the yolk's polyunsaturated fatty acids (mostly DHA and EPA) and minimizes the saturated fatty acid. This adds not only to eggs' nutritional benefits but optimizes the ratio of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids (which is critical for humans)..
In addition, Schizochytrium powder supplementation has been observed to boost the lipid metabolism of blood in poultry and lower serum triglycerides and cholesterol. This behavior shift indicates that Schizochytrium powder can improve birds' cardiovascular function and therefore animal welfare as a whole.
- Livestock Growth
Schizochytrium powder is a great supplement to help with growth and antioxidants for your livestock, especially dairy cows and calves. In calves, the powder is known to enhance growth by increasing protein intake and supplying the fatty acids required for energy and growth. Moreover, Schizochytrium powder's antioxidants enhance the immune system and therefore make the animals healthier and stronger.
- Protein and Fish Health
The Schizochytrium powder in fish diets in aquaculture has shown increases in protein and fish health. The powder's content in DHA is sufficient to support fish development and boost the nutrition of aquacultured fish. It also has antioxidant activity, enabling better resistance to disease and stress, and can be used as a supplement for sustainable and efficient aquaculture.
