Krill Oil VS Fish Oil: Know 10 Differences To Choose The Best Supplement!

Are you deciding between krill oil and fish oil? Both offer essential omega-3 fatty acids, but their sources (krill oil vs fish oil), absorption rates, and even taste can differ. Like krill oil, which is derived from tiny Antarctic crustaceans and contains omega-3s in phospholipids, it offers superior absorption and additional benefits from astaxanthin. However, fish oil, sourced from fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, contains omega-3s in triglyceride form and is more widely available and affordable. Thus, knowing the major differences will help you determine which supplement is better suited, krill oil versus fish oil, for your health needs and lifestyle.

To select the best oil for your health needs, explore ten main differentiators of krill oil vs fish oil for better selection. Let’s begin!

Table Of Contents

1. What Is The Difference Between Krill Oil And Fish Oil? 10 Key Points

2. Is Krill Oil Better Than Fish Oil?

3. Is Krill Oil The Same As Fish Oil?

4. Dietitian’s Recommendation

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

What Is The Difference Between Krill Oil And Fish Oil? 10 Key Points

Let’s understand the krill oil versus fish oil for selecting the right omega 3 supplements for the intended purposes:

1. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Sources

Krill Oil: Derived from tiny, shrimp-like crustaceans called Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), which are abundant in the cold waters of the Southern Ocean. Krill are a fundamental part of the marine ecosystem and serve as a main food source for many larger marine animals, such as whales, seals, and penguins.

Fish Oil: Extracted from the oily fish tissues, commonly including species like salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, and herring. These fish produce omega-3 fatty acids in their tissues by consuming smaller fish and marine organisms.

2. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Colour

Krill Oil: Due to the presence of astaxanthin, krill oil is distinctively red or pink. This vibrant colour visualises the antioxidant content and can help consumers identify krill oil supplements.

Fish Oil: Typically has a pale yellow to golden colour, which can vary depending on the fish source and the level of purification. High-quality fish oil is usually clear and free of cloudy impurities.

Also Read: Incredible Krill Oil Benefits for Skin and Health | ToneOpCare

3. Difference In Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content

Krill Oil: Contains omega-3 fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), predominantly in phospholipids. Phospholipids are a type of fat that is a major component of all cell membranes, which allows for easier and more efficient absorption by the body. This results in potentially higher bioavailability of omega-3s.

Fish Oil: It includes the required EPA and DHA as triglycerides. While effective, these need to be broken down by the body before absorption, which can be less efficient than phospholipid forms. High-quality fish oil supplements may use re-esterified triglycerides to enhance absorption.

4. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Antioxidant Effect

Krill Oil: Naturally rich in astaxanthin, a potent carotenoid antioxidant that gives krill oil its distinctive red colour. Astaxanthin helps protect the oil from oxidation and offers required health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects and potential protection against oxidative stress.

Fish Oil: Typically lacks natural antioxidants and may be more prone to oxidation, which can lead to a shorter shelf life and rancidity. Some fish oil supplements add antioxidants like vitamin E to help stabilise the oil and extend its shelf life.

Also Read: Are Digestive Enzyme Supplements Safer Option? Check Out These 5 Benefits!

5. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Sustainability Factor

Krill Oil: Generally considered more sustainable due to the massive populations of krill and their rapid reproduction rates. However, it's crucial to ensure that krill is sourced responsibly to avoid disrupting the marine ecosystem.

Fish Oil: The sustainability of fish oil depends on the species of fish used and the harvesting methods employed. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices significantly deplete fish populations and harm marine environments. 

6. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Purity And Contaminants

Krill Oil: Generally has lower contaminants like mercury, heavy metals, and other pollutants because krill are low on the food chain and have a shorter lifespan, reducing their exposure to environmental toxins.

Fish Oil: Depending on the species of fish and their environment, fish oil may contain higher levels of contaminants. High-quality fish oil supplements undergo purification processes such as molecular distillation to remove these contaminants and ensure safety.

Also Read: 4 Surprising Benefits Of Fish Oil During Pregnancy Every Mom Should Know!

7. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Taste And Aftertaste

Krill Oil: Typically has a milder taste and is less likely to cause irritating fishy burps or aftertaste, making it more palatable for many people. The phospholipid content helps the oil mix better with stomach contents, reducing the likelihood of reflux.

Fish Oil: This oil is more likely to cause a fishy aftertaste and burps, although some formulations are flavoured or coated to mask the taste and minimise this effect. Enteric-coated capsules can also help reduce aftertaste by preventing the oil from being released until it reaches the intestines.

8. Capsule Size Of Krill Oil VS Fish Oil

Krill Oil: Often available in smaller capsules due to its concentrated nature and higher bioavailability. Smaller capsules can be easier to swallow, especially for those who have difficulty with larger pills.

Fish Oil: Usually requires larger capsules to deliver the same omega-3 fatty acids. Some people may find these larger capsules more challenging to swallow.

9. Differ In Additional Health Benefits

Krill Oil: The phospholipid form of omega-3s and the presence of astaxanthin provide additional health benefits, including better brain health, improved cardiovascular function, and enhanced anti-inflammatory properties.

Fish Oil: Provides essential omega-3 fatty acids supporting heart health, brain function, and reduced inflammation. While lacking the benefits of phospholipids and natural astaxanthin, fish oil remains a valuable supplement for general health.

10. Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Cost

Krill Oil: Often more expensive than fish oil due to the complex harvesting and extraction process, as well as the added benefits of phospholipids and astaxanthin. The higher cost reflects the enhanced bioavailability and additional health benefits.

Fish Oil: Generally more affordable and widely available in various formulations and concentrations. The cost varies slightly depending on the source of the fish, the purification process, and the presence of added ingredients.

Also Read: Are you Worried About High Triglyceride (Fat) Levels? Discover Antarctic Krill Oil Benefits To Manage Cholesterol!

Is Krill Oil Better Than Fish Oil?

The debate on whether krill oil is better than fish oil centres around several key differences, particularly in absorption and additional health benefits. Here, have a look:

1. Krill Oil For Better Efficiency Of Nutrients

It contains the required omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipid form, which are more easily absorbed than the triglyceride form found in fish oil. This enhanced bioavailability means that a smaller dose of krill oil can be more effective than a larger dose of fish oil.

Also, krill oil naturally contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that provides further health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and protection against oxidative stress. These factors make krill oil a compelling choice for those seeking a highly efficient omega-3 source with added health advantages.

2. Fish Oil For A Budgeted Consideration

It remains a highly beneficial and widely used supplement, particularly for those on a budget. Fish oil is generally more affordable and readily available in various concentrations and formulations, making it accessible to a broader population.

While it lacks the phospholipid form of omega-3s and natural astaxanthin, high-quality fish oil supplements can still provide significant health benefits, including improved heart health, brain function, and reduced inflammation.

Ultimately, the choice in krill oil vs fish oil may depend on individual health needs, budget, and personal preferences. Consulting with a doctor eventually help to determine which supplement best suits one’s specific health goals.

Also Read: 7 Recommended Multivitamins For Men To Fulfill Their Nutritional Needs!

Is Krill Oil The Same As Fish Oil?

Note these eight major considerations which differentiate krill oil and fish oil and reveal why they are not the same for all purposes:

Dietitian’s Recommendation

To decide between fish oil and krill oil, you should first determine what you prefer, what you can afford, and why you want to use them. I recommend omega-3 fish oil if you're looking for something cheap and well-studied. But if you like strong antioxidant content and better absorption, consider ToneOp Care’s Krill Oil Capsules a good option.

                                                                                      Dt. Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

Ultimately, krill oil vs fish oil is not a dietary battle but rather a choice of preference. Both offer high omega-3 essential fatty acids and EPA and DHA levels. Regular intake of essential EPA and DHA helps lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function, which are important for heart health. Omega-3s can also reduce inflammation.

It is greatly beneficial for people, especially pregnant women, to take quality fish oil, krill oil, or algae oil supplements. However, talking to your doctor first is a good idea, especially if you're taking certain medications.