The majority of United States citizens are not receiving enough omega 3 unsaturated fatty acids in their everyday diet. Although fish are a significant source of omega 3 unsaturated fatty acids, they are a declining resource, making the discovery of alternative sources of omega 3 unsaturated fatty acids necessary. Different types of essential fatty acids, fish derived omega 3 supplements, and algae derived omega 3 supplements were tested using a free fatty acid quantitation kit. The different types of essential fatty acids and supplements were tested with human plasma, which allowed for the quantitation of the fatty acids absorption by human plasma. The results showed that algae derived omega 3 supplements were absorbed almost two times more than the fish derived omega 3 supplements. This analysis supports algae being considered a significant source of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that can be used as a dietary supplement in everyday diet.
