On December 30, 2024, the German Chemical and Veterinary Inspection Authority (CVUA) released a safety analysis of dietary supplements containing algal oil.

The 30 samples analyzed contained no abnormalities in DHA and EPA content, but the DHA/EPA ratio fluctuated considerably. The algal oils contained considerable amounts of cholesterol, ranging from 504 to 4,490 mg/kg, which is comparable to some fish oil products. Some samples contained significant amount of fatty acid ethyl ester (Fettsäure-Ethylester), which might be related to the addition of ethanol during the fermentation process of algae. The peroxide values of some samples exceeded the specified standards, indicating possible oxidation problems. Most samples contained antioxidants, but some were not labeled as required. The inspection also found that 11 samples violated regulations on health claims, particularly on the effects of DHA and EPA on cholesterol levels.

For more details see: https://www.ua-bw.de/pub/beitrag.asp?subid=1&Thema_ID=2&ID=4110&lang=DE&Pdf=No