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Send EmailOmega-3 Fatty Acids, Eicosa Pentaenoic Acid, Docosa Hexaenoic Acid, EPA, DHA, 10417-94-4, 6217-54-5
Omega-3 Fatty Acids / Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) / Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
CAS Numbers: 10417-94-4 (EPA); 6217-54-5 (DHA)
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA) |
| Chemical Definition | Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) |
| EPA CAS Number | 10417-94-4 |
| DHA CAS Number | 6217-54-5 |
| EPA Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₀O₂ |
| DHA Molecular Formula | C₂₂H₃₂O₂ |
| EPA Molecular Weight | 302.46 g/mol |
| DHA Molecular Weight | 328.49 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) |
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid |
| Odor | Slight fishy odor (source-dependent) |
| Solubility | Fat-soluble; insoluble in water |
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids belonging to the class of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the two most important omega-3 fatty acids for human health. They cannot be synthesized in sufficient amounts by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. EPA and DHA are known for their cardiovascular health benefits, brain function support, eye health, and anti-inflammatory effects. Their primary sources include fish oil, algal oil, and krill oil. They are widely used in dietary supplements, functional foods, infant formulas, and pharmaceutical preparations.
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| EPA Names | Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Timnodonic Acid, Icosapentaenoic Acid, EPA |
| DHA Names | Docosahexaenoic Acid, Cervonic Acid, DHA |
| Chemical Class | Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), Omega-3 fatty acids |
| EPA CAS Number | 10417-94-4 |
| DHA CAS Number | 6217-54-5 |
| EPA Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₀O₂ |
| DHA Molecular Formula | C₂₂H₃₂O₂ |
| E Number | Not applicable |
EPA is a 20-carbon omega-3 fatty acid with 5 double bonds (C20:5 n-3). The final double bond is located at the third carbon atom from the omega (methyl) end.
Structural Formula:
CH₃ - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - (CH₂)₃ - COOH
Abbreviated Notation:
C20:5 n-3 (or 20:5ω-3)
DHA is a 22-carbon omega-3 fatty acid with 6 double bonds (C22:6 n-3). The final double bond is located at the third carbon atom from the omega (methyl) end.
Structural Formula:
CH₃ - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - CH₂ - CH = CH - (CH₂)₂ - COOH
Abbreviated Notation:
C22:6 n-3 (or 22:6ω-3)
| Feature | EPA | DHA |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Count | 20 | 22 |
| Double Bond Count | 5 | 6 |
| Omega Position | n-3 (ω-3) | n-3 (ω-3) |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₀O₂ | C₂₂H₃₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 302.46 g/mol | 328.49 g/mol |
| Carboxyl Group | Present (-COOH) | Present (-COOH) |
| Structure | Long-chain, polyunsaturated | Long-chain, polyunsaturated |
| Property | EPA | DHA | Omega-3 Mixture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid |
| Odor | Slight fishy odor | Slight fishy odor | Slight fishy odor (source-dependent) |
| Solubility | Fat-soluble; water-insoluble | Fat-soluble; water-insoluble | Fat-soluble; water-insoluble |
| Melting Point | -54°C | -44°C | Variable |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes | Decomposes | Decomposes |
| Density (20°C) | ~0.91 g/cm³ | ~0.93 g/cm³ | 0.90 – 0.95 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | ~1.47 | ~1.48 | 1.47 – 1.49 |
| Iodine Value | High | High | High |
| Oxidation Sensitivity | High (polyunsaturated) | High (polyunsaturated) | High |
| pH | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral |
| Solvent | EPA | DHA | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble | Insoluble | 20°C |
| Vegetable Oils | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Ethanol | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Chloroform | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Hexane | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Acetone | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Ether | Soluble | Soluble | 20°C |
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Character | Weakly acidic (carboxylic acid) |
| Polyunsaturated Structure | Contains multiple cis-double bonds |
| Oxidation | Undergoes autoxidation in air; causes fishy odor and rancidity |
| Isomerization | Double bonds in cis configuration; trans isomerization possible with heat and light |
| Esterification | Forms triglycerides, phospholipids, and ethyl esters |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizers, heat, light, oxygen, heavy metals |
Omega-3 + O₂ → Peroxides → Aldehydes → Ketones (off-odor)
Omega-3 + Glycerol → Triglyceride + H₂O
Omega-3 + H₂ (catalyst) → Saturated Fatty Acid (double bonds saturated)
Omega-3 + NaOH → Sodium Salt (Soap) + Glycerol
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Essentiality | Cannot be synthesized sufficiently by the body; must be obtained from diet |
| Cell Membrane Structure | Found in cell membrane phospholipids; regulates membrane fluidity |
| Eicosanoid Synthesis | Precursor to anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (prostaglandins, thromboxanes) |
| Metabolism | Participates in energy metabolism via beta-oxidation |
| Tissue Distribution | Concentrated in brain, retina, and nervous tissue (especially DHA) |
| Placental Transfer | Crosses the placenta for fetal development |
| Effect | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Triglyceride Reduction | Reduces VLDL synthesis in the liver; inhibits triglyceride synthesis |
| Anti-inflammatory Effect | Reduces pro-inflammatory eicosanoids; promotes formation of anti-inflammatory mediators (resolvins, protectins) |
| Blood Pressure Reduction | Increases vasodilation; improves vascular tone |
| Platelet Aggregation | Reduces blood clotting by decreasing thromboxane A2 synthesis |
| Brain Function | Increases neuronal membrane fluidity; supports synaptogenesis and neurotransmission |
| Anti-arrhythmic Effect | Modulates ion channel activity in cardiac myocytes |
| Source | EPA Content | DHA Content | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fish Oil | High | High | Most common source; cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) |
| Algal Oil | Medium | High | Vegetarian/vegan source; derived from microalgae |
| Krill Oil | High | Medium | Derived from Antarctic krill; phospholipid form |
| Fish Meat | Medium | Medium | Obtained through consumption of oily fish |
| Flaxseed Oil | None (ALA) | None (ALA) | Contains ALA; conversion to EPA/DHA in the body is limited |
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart Health | Lowers triglyceride levels, supports vascular elasticity, regulates blood pressure |
| Brain Function | Plays a critical role in cell membrane structure, supports memory and learning, may reduce risk of neurodegenerative diseases |
| Anti-inflammatory Effect | Reduces inflammation in the body; supports joint health |
| Eye Health | Plays an important role in retinal health; may reduce risk of age-related macular degeneration |
| Pregnancy and Fetal Development | Plays a critical role in fetal brain and eye development |
| Immune System | Modulates immune response |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Capsule Form | Commonly used in soft gelatin capsules. |
| Liquid Form | Used as liquid supplements in bottles or dropper forms. |
| Powder Form | Microencapsulated powder form; can be added to food products. |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Infant Formula | Added to infant formulations for brain development. |
| Dairy Products | Used in fortified milk, yogurt, and cheese products. |
| Beverages | Used in functional beverages (fruit juices, cold drinks). |
| Bakery Products | Omega-3 enriched bread and cereal products. |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Clinical Nutrition | Used in enteral and parenteral nutrition products in hospitals. |
| Pharmaceutical Preparations | Prescription omega-3 products (e.g., triglyceride-lowering drugs). |
| Dermatological Products | Used in creams and lotions to support skin barrier. |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Fish Feed | Added to fish feeds in aquaculture. |
| Pet Food | Used as a health supplement in dog and cat foods. |
| Property | EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) | DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Count | 20 | 22 |
| Double Bond Count | 5 | 6 |
| Molecular Weight | 302.46 g/mol | 328.49 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -54°C | -44°C |
| Primary Role | Anti-inflammatory, triglyceride reduction | Brain development, eye health, neuroprotection |
| Tissue Distribution | More widespread (blood, heart) | Brain, retina, nervous tissue |
| Eicosanoid Precursor | Yes (anti-inflammatory eicosanoids) | Limited (neuroprotectins, resolvins) |
| Substance / Environment | Compatibility | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Oils | COMPATIBLE | Easily miscible; forms solution. |
| Water | INCOMPATIBLE | Insoluble; forms two phases. |
| Oxygen / Air | LIMITED | Susceptible to oxidation; inert atmosphere required. |
| Light (UV) | LIMITED | Accelerates oxidation; dark-colored containers recommended. |
| Heat | LIMITED | Oxidation accelerates at high temperatures; store in cool place. |
| Antioxidants | COMPATIBLE | Vitamin E and other antioxidants should be added for stability. |
| Heavy Metals | INCOMPATIBLE | Catalyze oxidation. |
| Plastic (HDPE, PET) | COMPATIBLE | Suitable as packaging material (oxygen barrier). |
| Glass | COMPATIBLE | Suitable for storage and packaging. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Stability | Susceptible to oxidation; must be stabilized with antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E). |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool (15-25°C), dry, and well-ventilated area; protect from light and oxygen. |
| Temperature Effect | Storage at low temperature (refrigerator) extends shelf life. |
| Light Effect | UV light accelerates oxidation; use dark-colored glass or opaque packaging. |
| Oxygen Effect | Oxygen accelerates oxidation; package under inert atmosphere (nitrogen). |
| Shelf Life | 12-24 months (under proper storage conditions, stabilized with antioxidants). |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | > 5000 mg/kg (low toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity | Low |
| Acute Inhalation Toxicity | Low risk |
| Skin Irritation | Mild irritant (liquid form) |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritant |
| High Dose Effects | Blood-thinning effect; interaction with anticoagulant drugs; gastrointestinal discomfort |
| Mutagenicity | Negative |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Reproductive Toxicity | Not classified |
| Recommended Daily Dose | 250-1000 mg (EPA+DHA) |
GHS Classification (Generally Not Classified as Hazardous):
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Not classified as hazardous | - | - |
Signal Word: None (not classified as hazardous)
Hazard Pictograms: None
Hazard Statements (H-Codes): None
Safety Phrases (Historically):
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| S24/25 | Avoid contact with skin and eyes. |
| S26 | In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. |
| S36/37/39 | Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves, and eye/face protection. |
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling. |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water. |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. |
| P337+P313 | If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. |
| Route of Exposure | Action to Be Taken |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air. If breathing difficulty occurs, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. If large amount is swallowed, seek medical attention. |
| General Note | If symptoms persist, always consult a healthcare facility. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Flammable liquid; keep away from heat, sparks, and flames. |
| Hazards During Fire | Thermal decomposition produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and toxic fumes. |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Dry chemical powder, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam, water spray. |
| Special Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing. |
| Special Precautions | Prevent fire-fighting water from entering the environment. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Protective gloves, goggles, coverall. |
| Ventilation | Increase ventilation; use local exhaust in confined spaces. |
| Containment | Cover spilled area with inert material (sand, vermiculite). |
| Cleaning Methods | Collect with inert absorbent material and place in appropriate waste container. |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies. |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of in accordance with local regulations. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool (15-25°C), dry, and well-ventilated area; protect from light and oxygen. |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed, under inert atmosphere (nitrogen), in dark-colored glass or oxygen-barrier plastic containers. |
| Materials to Avoid | Light, oxygen, heat, heavy metals, strong oxidizers. |
| Shelf Life | 12-24 months (under proper storage conditions, stabilized with antioxidants). |
| Stability Note | Susceptible to oxidation; antioxidants (vitamin E, ascorbyl palmitate) should be added. |
| Packaging Options | 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg, 200 kg (drums, IBC tanks). |
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Dark-colored glass bottle | 1 – 5 kg | Glass (dark-colored) |
| Plastic drum (oxygen barrier) | 10 – 25 kg | HDPE / Aluminum foil-lined |
| Metal drum (stainless steel) | 25 – 200 kg | Stainless steel |
| IBC Tank | 1000 kg | HDPE / Stainless steel |
| Capsule / Softgel | Variable | Gelatin / Vegetable capsule |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not classified as dangerous goods). |
| Hazard Class | Not classified as hazardous for transport. |
| Packing Group | Not applicable. |
| ADR/RID | Not classified as dangerous goods. |
| IMDG Code | Not classified as dangerous goods. |
| IATA (Air) | Not classified as dangerous goods. |
| Marine Pollutant | No. |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient temperature; protect from light and oxygen. |
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Approved as a dietary supplement and functional food ingredient. |
| USA (FDA) | Recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). |
| Turkey | Approved as a dietary supplement; regulated by Turkish Food Codex. |
| EFSA | Health claims (heart health, brain function) have been approved. |
| WHO/FAO | Recommended daily intake levels have been established. |
| Pharmaceutical | Used as an active ingredient in prescription products. |
| Sector | Suitability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dietary Supplements | HIGH | Widespread use in capsules, liquid, and powder forms. |
| Functional Foods | HIGH | Infant formulas, dairy products, beverages, bakery. |
| Clinical Nutrition | HIGH | Enteral and parenteral nutrition products. |
| Pharmaceutical | HIGH | Prescription triglyceride-lowering drugs. |
| Cosmetics | MEDIUM | Skin care products (anti-inflammatory, barrier support). |
| Animal Nutrition | MEDIUM | Fish feed and pet food. |
| Property | EPA | DHA |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 10417-94-4 | 6217-54-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₀O₂ | C₂₂H₃₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 302.46 g/mol | 328.49 g/mol |
| Carbon Count | 20 | 22 |
| Double Bond Count | 5 | 6 |
| Omega Position | n-3 (ω-3) | n-3 (ω-3) |
| Melting Point | -54°C | -44°C |
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid | Colorless to light yellow oily liquid |
| Primary Role | Anti-inflammatory, triglyceride reduction | Brain development, eye health |
| Shelf Life | 12-24 months (with antioxidants) | 12-24 months (with antioxidants) |
CRITICAL NOTICES:
Oxidation Sensitivity: Omega-3 fatty acids are highly unsaturated and very sensitive to oxidation. Air, light, heat, and heavy metals accelerate oxidation. Stabilization with antioxidants (vitamin E, ascorbyl palmitate) is essential.
Fishy Odor: Oxidative degradation produces aldehydes and ketones, causing fishy odor. This is an indicator of quality loss. Microencapsulation or odor removal technologies may be used.
Anticoagulant Effect: High doses of omega-3 may have a blood-thinning effect. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) should use under medical supervision.
Dosage: Doses of 250-1000 mg (EPA+DHA) daily are recommended for general health. High doses (>3 g/day) require medical supervision.
Source Quality: Products derived from fish oil should be tested for heavy metal (mercury, PCB) contamination. Molecularly distilled products are preferred.
Pregnancy and Lactation: DHA is critical for fetal brain and eye development. Special formulations should be preferred for pregnant and lactating women.
Regulation: Health claims (heart health, brain function) are subject to varying regulations by country. Check local regulations before use.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Storage: Store in a cool (15-25°C), dry, and well-ventilated area, protected from light and oxygen. Refrigeration (2-8°C) is recommended for long-term storage.
Packaging: Use dark-colored glass or oxygen-barrier containers. Use promptly after opening to minimize air exposure.
Antioxidant Addition: Add natural antioxidants (vitamin E, ascorbyl palmitate, rosemary extract) to the product for stabilization.
Quality Control: Monitor quality with peroxide value (PV), anisidine value (AV), total oxidation value (TOTOX), and heavy metal analysis.
Personnel Protection: Use protective gloves and goggles. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Waste Management: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations. Do not pour down drains.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith; however, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are obligated to test the suitability of the product for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted.