Researchers at the University of Chile and the Marine Research Institute (CSIC) in Spain have synthesised a new optimised bioactive lipid (OBL) rich in EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, derived from rainbow trout belly trim and tocopherols extracted from cold-pressed maqui seed oil.
The team used enzymatic acidolysis combined with supercritical CO2 technology to produce the compound. The resulting lipid shows enhanced oxidative stability and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to lead researcher Dr. Alicia Rodríguez of the Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Chile.
The bioactive lipid has been tested in murine models, showing measurable metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits, Dr. Rodríguez said. The research forms part of a Fondecyt-funded project focused on valorising salmon industry co-products and developing structured omega-3 lipids.
Target applications include functional foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements aimed at preventing chronic non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Rodríguez described the results as “a concrete opportunity to advance towards circular economy models, where salmon processing byproducts can be transformed into high-value ingredients for human health.”
The research is published under the title Optimization of Bioactive Lipid Synthesis by Enzymatic Acidolysis Using EPA + DHA Concentrate from Rainbow Trout and Tocopherols from Maqui Seed Oil.