Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) - Feed Ingredient

Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is primarily found in marine sources such as fish oil and algae. EPA is a key fatty acid known for its role in modulating inflammatory processes in the body and is often grouped with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in omega-3 nutritional assessments.

In equine nutrition, EPA is included in feed or supplement formulations as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. Its presence may help influence the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in the horse’s diet, which is considered relevant to supporting normal inflammatory responses. Sources of EPA used in equine products typically include cold-water fish oils (e.g., menhaden, sardine, or anchovy oil) and microalgal oils, which offer a plant-based alternative.

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA are generally considered more effective at influencing inflammatory pathways than shorter-chain plant-derived omega-3s, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from flaxseed or chia. While horses can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, the conversion efficiency is low. As a result, direct supplementation with long-chain omega-3s from marine sources provides a more consistent and bioavailable approach to supporting anti-inflammatory mechanisms in equine