Antarctic Krill as a Functional Ingredient in Companion Animal Health

Written by: Venttura Nutrition Team
Reviewed by: a certified veterinary nutritionist

Published: July 2026 | Last Updated: July 2026
Reading time: 11 minutes

Short Answer

Antarctic krill is a marine-derived source of highly bioavailable omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), bound to phospholipids for superior absorption, with research showing benefits for joint health, antioxidant defense, skin, liver, and metabolic health in dogs.

 

Key Takeaways

• Krill's omega-3s (EPA and DHA) are bound to phospholipids rather than triglycerides, giving them greater bioavailability than standard fish oil.
• A dog study found krill meal produced the greatest improvement in Omega-3 Index compared to fishmeal/oil and flaxseed.
• A combination supplement with krill oil and green-lipped mussel showed pain relief in dogs with hip osteoarthritis comparable to the NSAID meloxicam.
• Krill oil supplementation in dogs improved antioxidant markers, immune function, and coat/hair quality over 8 weeks.
• Krill also contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant carotenoid, and supports liver health through its high phosphatidylcholine content.

 

I . Introduction

Euphausia superba, widely recognized as krill, is a small marine crustacean native to the Antarctic Ocean that functions as a vital food source for the vast majority of fish [1]. Antarctic krill are tiny crustaceans distinguished by black eyes and an exoskeleton with a semi-transparent, reddish hue [11, 12]. Thriving within the Antarctic waters, Antarctic krill ranks as the planet's most prolific wild animal, holding a central function in the regional ecosystem driven by its massive biomass [13, 14]. Given the growing interest in Antarctic krill as a source of omega-3 fatty acids and other bioactive compounds, its potential applications in companion animal nutrition and health warrant further consideration. This review summarizes the nutritional and bioactive properties of Antarctic krill and evaluates the available evidence regarding its potential health benefits and dietary applications in companion animals.

 

 

II . Nutritional and Bioactive Profile of Antarctic Krill

The primary components of Antarctic krill consist of moisture (77.9% to 83.1%), protein (11.9% to 15.4%), lipids (0.4% to 3.6%), ash (3%), carbohydrates (2%), chitin, chitosan (2%), and additional glucides [15]. Regarding its lipid profile, Antarctic krill functions as an exceptionally rich source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), featuring high levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) that are mainly attached to phospholipids (PLs) like phosphatidylcholine, contrasting with fish oil where they are chiefly linked to triacylglycerols (TG) [16]. Studies have demonstrated that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids bound to phospholipids are absorbed and integrated into cellular membranes with greater efficiency than those bound to triacylglycerols, implying that the omega-3s present in krill oil provide superior bioavailability [17]. Over 80% of the EPA and DHA within krill oil exist in the phosphatidylcholine structure. Krill oil supplementation provides the dual benefit of delivering essential EPA and DHA alongside choline, a conditionally vital nutrient.

Choline is required for synthesizing neurotransmitters like acetylcholine as well as various phospholipids including phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, choline plasmalogen, and sphingomyelin, playing a crucial role in lipid transport and homocysteine reduction [18, 19]. The proportion of phospholipids in krill oil spans from 39.9% to 80.7%, a concentration that fluctuates based on the analytical techniques utilized and the specific sample type. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) emerges as the most dominant phospholipid category, accounting for 44.58% to 99.80%, while phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), though present in lesser amounts, constitutes between 0.20% and 24.74% of the total phospholipids [9]. Additional critical components have also been documented, occasionally in minor concentrations amounting to under 10% of total phospholipids, which include phosphatidylglycerol, cardiolipin, phosphatidylserine, sphingomyelin,  and phosphatidic acid. Because of its high phosphatidylcholine concentration, krill oil is presently regarded as an exceptionally promising marine-based source of phospholipids and a viable alternative to those originating from egg yolks, vegetable oils, and dairy goods [19].

According to the Codex Alimentarius Commission’s Standard for Fish Oils, adopted in 2017, krill oil contains a diverse range of fatty acids, with several occurring in relatively high proportions. These include C14:0 (myristic acid) at 5.0-13.0%, C16:0 (palmitic acid) at 17.0-24.6%, C16:1 (n-7) (palmitoleic acid) at 2.5-9.0%, C18:1 (n-7) (vaccenic acid) at 4.7-8.1%, and C18:1 (n-9) (oleic acid) at 6.0-14.5%. Among the omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5 n-3) accounts for 14.3-28.0%, while docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 n-3) represents 7.1-15.7% of the fatty acid profile [5, 20]. EPA and DHA have been reported to occur predominantly in the phospholipid (PL) fraction of krill oil, accounting for 31.13% and 14.87%, respectively, whereas substantially lower proportions were detected in the triacylglycerol (TAG) fraction, with EPA and DHA comprising only 3.17% and 1.5%, respectively [2]. Their association with phospholipids has been linked to greater bioavailability of these fatty acids compared with their presence in the TAG fraction, enhancing their potential value as pharmacological and nutraceutical components [3,4].

Astaxanthin, a type of carotenoid, functions as one of the key minor constituents found in krill oil [5]. This specific substance gives krill oil its characteristic deep red hue and possesses exceptionally strong antioxidant capabilities, surpassing other carotenoids like zeaxanthin, lutein, beta-carotene,  canthaxanthin and alpha-tocopherol [6]. Typically, astaxanthin concentrations in krill oil span from 40 to 5000 mg/kg, fluctuating based on inherent properties of the krill such as the raw material and species, or shifting due to the extraction and analytical techniques utilized [7]. Sterols constitute another notable lipid fraction of krill oil, accounting for approximately 2.3-3.9% of its total lipid content [8].

Krill oil is also a rich source of α-tocopherol (vitamin E), a lipid-soluble vitamin well recognized for its strong antioxidant activity. In addition to vitamin E, vitamin A has been detected in frozen krill samples [9]. The occurrence of vitamin A further enhances the nutritional significance of krill-derived products and supports the potential of krill oil as a dietary supplement for supporting immune function and helping the body respond to certain infectious challenges. Flavonoids are also present in krill oil. Beyond the organic molecules driving its therapeutic effects, specific krill samples have been shown to contain high concentrations of various minerals. Calcium which supports skeletal health along with phosphorus and magnesium stand out as the primary minerals found in krill [5]. Trace amounts of other minerals like zinc, selenium, and potassium are also present. In addition to these necessary nutrients, krill features a high level of fluoride reaching 2400 mg/kg of dry weight, which poses a risk of skeletal fluorosis if consumed in large amounts. Fortunately, the majority of this fluoride resides in the outer shell of the krill, a component that can be eliminated during the extraction process to prevent excessive accumulation and maintain low fluoride concentrations in the final product [5, 10].

 

 

III . Dietary Benefits of Antarctic Krill

Antarctic krill meal has potential as a nutritionally valuable marine ingredient for animal diets, providing highly digestible protein and fat along with bioavailable omega-3 fatty acids. Studies in mink and dogs have also demonstrated its potential as a dietary source of EPA and DHA and as an alternative to conventional marine ingredients such as fishmeal.

A study involving breeding female mink assessed the nutritional quality, digestibility, taste appeal, and safety of Antarctic krill meal as a prospective ingredient for pet food. The krill meal demonstrated exceptional protein and fat digestibility rates of 85% and 98%, respectively. Incorporating krill meal at 9 percent and 17 percent of the dietary dry matter caused no negative impacts on reproductive output, organ masses, blood profiles, clinical chemistry metrics, or tissue structure. At the maximum inclusion rate of 35 percent, certain alterations became evident within the liver, digestive tract, hematology, and clinical chemistry markers. The research ultimately determined that Antarctic krill meal delivers nutritional properties comparable to premium fishmeal and can be securely integrated into rations for breeding female mink at concentrations up to 17 percent of dry weight [21]. Another feeding trial in growing male and female mink examined whether Antarctic krill meal could serve as a nutritionally valuable and safe alternative ingredient in animal diets. Growth performance of mink receiving the krill-based diets was similar to that of the control animals, suggesting that krill meal could provide nutritional benefits comparable to those of the fishmeal included in the control diet. Safety was also supported at an inclusion level of 8% of dietary dry matter, as no treatment-related abnormalities were detected in hematological measurements, blood biochemical parameters, or tissue morphology. In contrast, increasing the inclusion level to 17% resulted in some hepatic and renal tissue alterations, while the highest level tested (33%) was associated with additional changes, including joint and skeletal deformities. The authors therefore concluded that Antarctic krill meal has nutritional quality comparable to good-quality fishmeal and can be incorporated into diets for growing animals at up to 8% of dietary dry matter without observed adverse effects [22]. Another study involving 45 dogs investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with krill meal, fishmeal/oil, and flaxseed cake on the Omega-3 Index (O3I), an indicator of EPA and DHA incorporation into red blood cell membranes. Following four weeks of dietary intervention, dogs receiving krill meal exhibited a significant rise in O3I values from 1.36% to 2.36%, while the fishmeal/oil group showed an increase from 1.35% to 1.90%. In contrast, supplementation with flaxseed cake did not result in a significant improvement in O3I. Among the tested dietary sources, krill meal produced the most pronounced elevation in Omega-3 Index, indicating that marine-derived EPA and DHA sources, particularly Antarctic krill meal, may be effective in improving omega-3 status in dogs [23].

 

 

IV. Potential Health Benefits of Antarctic Krill

 

Anti-inflammatory Benefits

Osteoarthritis (OA) involves the gradual damage and loss of normal structure in one or more tissues that make up a joint. When this condition causes pain, it can have broader effects on dogs, affecting their mobility, daily activities, musculoskeletal health, and sensory function, ultimately reducing their overall quality of life [26]. It has been estimated that around 37% of dogs may develop OA accompanied by pain-related clinical signs [24]. OA is also frequently detected through radiographic examination in younger dogs aged 8 months to 4 years, with approximately 40% showing radiographic evidence of the disease and about 16% experiencing moderate or greater levels of associated pain [25]. These findings indicate that OA and the pain associated with it are common concerns in dogs [26]. A 6-week clinical trial assessed EAB-277 (Antinol® Rapid), a supplement combining green-lipped mussel with Antarctic krill oil extract, in dogs diagnosed with hip osteoarthritis. The study used a prospective, block-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Compared with placebo-treated dogs, those receiving EAB-277 demonstrated better weight-bearing on the affected limb, reflected by a greater improvement in peak vertical force, along with lower orthopedic assessment scores. The response observed with EAB-277 was similar to that achieved with meloxicam, whereas Biota orientalis supplementation did not produce a significant benefit over placebo. The findings indicated that EAB-277 may help alleviate pain and clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis in dogs [26].

Another study using primary chondrocytes and a surgically induced rat model of knee osteoarthritis (OA) evaluated the potential joint-protective effects of krill oil (KO). Oral administration of KO at 100 or 200 mg/kg for 8 weeks improved joint function, including reduced swelling and better mobility. KO treatment was also associated with greater bone mineral density and cartilage compressive strength, along with enhanced expression of cartilage-related genes such as type II collagen, aggrecan, and Sox9. KO lowered the levels of inflammatory mediators, including 5-lipoxygenase and prostaglandin E2, as well as the matrix-degrading enzymes MMP-2 and MMP-9 in cartilage and synovial tissues. Similar protective effects were observed in cultured chondrocytes, where KO supported cell viability and limited inflammatory responses and extracellular matrix degradation. Histological examination additionally indicated reduced cartilage/joint damage and synovial inflammation. Overall, the study suggests that krill oil may exert anti-inflammatory and cartilage-preserving effects in experimental knee osteoarthritis [27]. In another study, researchers evaluated different processing methods for Antarctic krill oil, including supercritical fluid extraction and ethanol extraction, both with and without purification. The oil extracted using supercritical fluid contained greater amounts of astaxanthin, total fatty acids, and monounsaturated fats than the refined version. Additionally, this extract demonstrated a stronger capability to block the NF-κB inflammatory pathway [28].

 

 

Antioxidant Benefits

Although studies evaluating the antioxidant effects of Antarctic krill in companion animals are limited, available evidence in dogs suggests that krill oil may enhance antioxidant defenses and reduce oxidative stress. In vitro studies of krill-derived peptides further support its potential antioxidant activity.

A study in dogs evaluated the effects of snacks containing 0.5% krill oil (KO) supplementation for 8 weeks and found improvements in antioxidant and immune-related parameters. Krill oil supplementation increased serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and immunoglobulin G (IgG), while lowering levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, and malondialdehyde (MDA). KO supplementation also improved hair quality, with reduced hair scale thickness and increased total amino acid and methionine content in newly grown hair. Additionally, krill oil influenced fecal microbiota composition and diversity by increasing the abundance of bacterial groups such as Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, and Proteobacteria. Overall, the study demonstrated that krill oil supplementation may support antioxidant activity, immune function, hair quality, and gut microbiota balance in dogs [31]. An in vitro study found that peptides obtained from Antarctic krill hydrolysate exhibited antioxidant and cytoprotective activity in Chang liver cells exposed to H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. Of the 12 peptides identified, LKPGN and LQP demonstrated particularly strong radical-scavenging activity. Treatment with these peptides improved cell viability and reduced apoptosis following H₂O₂ exposure. They also enhanced the activities of the antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-PX, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased DNA damage and MDA levels. The findings suggest that LKPGN and LQP may contribute to the protective effects of Antarctic krill peptides against oxidative stress and could have potential applications in health-promoting products [32].

 

 

Skin Health Benefits

Krill oil provides EPA and DHA in a phospholipid-rich form, which may contribute to maintaining skin barrier integrity and hydration. Clinical evidence has demonstrated improvements in these skin parameters following krill oil supplementation.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial demonstrated that daily oral administration of 1 or 2 grams of krill oil over a 12-week period enhanced skin health parameters in healthy adults. Across the study cohorts, krill oil notably elevated the omega-3 index relative to the placebo group and significantly decreased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), pointing to enhanced skin barrier integrity. Furthermore, krill oil intake boosted skin hydration and elasticity compared to placebo. These improvements in TEWL, moisture levels, and elasticity strongly correlated with shifts in the omega-3 index. Ultimately, the trial determined that daily supplementation with krill oil yielded dose-responsive benefits for skin barrier function, moisture, and elasticity [37].

 

 

Liver Health Benefits

Krill provides phosphatidylcholine and bioactive peptides that may support liver function through effects on choline metabolism, antioxidant defenses, and inflammatory signaling. In particular, the choline-related findings in dogs provide a relevant nutritional basis for considering krill in relation to hepatic health.

A six-week controlled dietary trial revealed that incorporating Antarctic krill meal at an eight percent level markedly elevated blood choline levels in sled dogs relative to an unsupplemented control group. Canines receiving the krill-enriched diet likewise displayed substantially greater surges in circulating betaine, dimethylglycine, trimethylamine-N-oxide, and trimethyllysine, alongside notable statistical correlations linking shifts in choline to its metabolic breakdown products. The research ultimately concluded that Antarctic krill meal serves as a viable dietary provider of phosphatidylcholine, successfully boosting systemic choline concentrations and altering its metabolic processing in dogs [29]. A study using ICR mice demonstrated that Antarctic krill-derived peptides (AKP) exerted protective effects against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced acute liver injury. Pretreatment with AKP for 15 days attenuated liver damage, as evidenced by reduced serum ALT and AST levels and decreased hepatocyte necrosis. AKP also suppressed the inflammatory response by lowering TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Furthermore, AKP improved hepatic antioxidant defenses by decreasing MDA and 8-iso-PG levels while enhancing the activities of SOD, GSH, and GSH-PX. These effects were accompanied by increased expression of Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1, suggesting activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Overall, the findings indicate that Antarctic krill peptides may help protect against acute liver injury through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects associated with Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation [30].

 

 

Metabolic Health Benefits

Evidence from experimental models suggests that Antarctic krill oil may support metabolic health by influencing lipid and glucose metabolism, reducing fat accumulation, and improving cholesterol profiles. Its effects on oxidative stress and pathways involved in lipid and cholesterol homeostasis may further contribute to these metabolic benefits.

A twelve-week investigation involving C57BL/6J mice revealed that supplementing a high-fat diet with Antarctic krill oil (KO) enhanced both lipid and glucose regulation. Compared to subjects maintained exclusively on the high-fat diet, those treated with KO exhibited decreased weight gain alongside diminished fat storage in both adipose tissue and the liver. Furthermore, KO mitigated high-fat-diet-driven dyslipidemia, most notably through a substantial decrease in serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The intervention also lowered fasting blood glucose and enhanced glucose tolerance. Lastly, hepatic oxidative stress was alleviated by KO, demonstrated by reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations paired with increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity [33]. An obesity model utilizing male ICR mice demonstrated that Antarctic krill oil (ESKO) mitigated high-fat-diet-induced fat deposition, oxidative stress, hypercholesterolemia, and associated obesity complications. ESKO enhanced metabolic profiles by regulating key pathways linked to lipid and cholesterol homeostasis, such as CD36/LXRα/SREBP1c, PCSK9, and HMGCR. Moreover, the supplement prevented the decline in low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) expression typically triggered by a high-fat diet. Ultimately, these results indicate that Antarctic krill oil shows promise for treating metabolic and cholesterol disorders tied to obesity [34].

 

Anticancer Benefits

Although evidence on the anticancer effects of Antarctic krill in companion animals is currently lacking, studies in experimental cancer models suggest that krill-derived bioactive compounds may influence tumor growth and promote cancer cell death. These findings provide preliminary evidence for further investigation of krill in veterinary oncology.

A review examining the bioactive constituents of krill, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids and astaxanthin, highlighted their potential anticancer effects. Available evidence suggests that krill-derived components may interfere with cancer cell growth, tumor progression, and metastasis, while also promoting programmed cell death. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of the omega-3/omega-6 fatty acid balance, reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9, and regulation of mitochondrial function. The review therefore indicated that krill and its bioactive compounds may have potential as supportive agents in cancer prevention and management [35]. Investigations using a mouse model of colorectal cancer demonstrated that krill oil (KO) suppressed tumor progression. Subjects administered KO exhibited marked decreases in both tumor volume and weight, achieving results comparable to treatment with oxaliplatin. Furthermore, KO elevated DNA damage as well as the expression of cytochrome c and active caspase-9 and caspase-3 within the tumor microenvironment, while simultaneously downregulating PD-L1, PD-L2, and HSP-70 levels. Comparable outcomes were achieved when KO was administered alongside a reduced dose of oxaliplatin. The research ultimately highlights the in vivo anticancer efficacy of krill oil, suggesting its viability as a standalone therapeutic or complementary treatment option for colorectal cancer [36].

 

 

V . Conclusion

Antarctic krill is a nutritionally rich marine ingredient with a distinctive combination of EPA and DHA, phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, astaxanthin, and other bioactive constituents. The available evidence indicates that krill and its derived products may offer multiple benefits relevant to companion animals, including improved omega-3 status, antioxidant defense, inflammatory regulation, skin health, liver function, and metabolic health. Its high nutrient digestibility and ability to serve as an alternative source of marine-derived nutrients further support its application in pet diets. Overall, Antarctic krill shows considerable potential as a multifunctional ingredient that may contribute to both the nutritional quality and health-supportive properties of companion-animal diets.

 

At Venttura, we offer Nutri+Cat, a comprehensive micronutrient supplement formulated with Antarctic krill, along with a blend of plant extracts and essential nutrients to support overall health and well-being. The inclusion of Antarctic krill  helps support antioxidant defenses, joint health, healthy inflammatory responses, skin health, and overall vitality, helping cats maintain their health and well-being.

 

Nutri+cat -  https://venttura.com/products/nutri-cat

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What makes krill oil different from fish oil?

2) Can krill oil help dogs with joint pain or arthritis?

3) What is astaxanthin and why is it in krill oil?

4) Does krill oil support skin and coat health in dogs?

 

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