20 Years of Science Behind Zooca® Calanus® Oil: Health Effects, Sustainability, and Innovation
A newly published peer-reviewed article in Lipidology brings together two decades of interdisciplinary research on Calanus oil. The articles cover everything from the biology of Calanus finmarchicus and harvesting methods to oil composition, health effects, and regulatory milestones. Authored by scientists from The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), Leibniz University Hannover and Zooca® – The Calanus Company, the article represents the most comprehensive scientific summary of Calanus oil to date.
From ocean to innovation - A sustainable source of omega-3
Calanus finmarchicus, the most abundant zooplankton in the North Atlantic, represents one of the largest untapped biomass resources in the ocean. The review explains how Norwegian resource management and sustainable harvesting techniques enable responsible access to this species, with minimal ecological impact and strong alignment with international sustainability goals.
Unique lipid structure – Unique health potential
Zooca® Calanus ® Oil is chemically distinct from traditional marine oils. Its omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA, and SDA) are primarily bound in wax esters – a format that also includes naturally occurring marine policosanols and high levels of the antioxidant astaxanthin.
This wax ester structure allows for slower digestion and may result in a different bioavailability profile and metabolic response compared to triglyceride- or phospholipid-based oils. The article highlights how these features contribute to the oil’s novel health effects.
Clinical evidence: from lab to human trials
The review provides a synthesis of the scientific evidence from both animal models and clinical studies. Zooca® Calanus oil has demonstrated consistent effects related to fat metabolism, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and cardiac function – particularly when combined with exercise. The results suggest that even low doses of Calanus oil may have measurable impacts on metabolic health.
Implications for Omega-3 Innovation and Product Development
With full transparency around composition, production, and efficacy, this review strengthens the scientific foundation for using Zooca® Calanus oil in functional foods, dietary supplements, and cardiometabolic health applications.
Download the full review on Calanus oil’s health benefits and lipid composition
A Novel Marine Oil from the Copepod Calanus finmarchicus: Source, Harvesting, Chemistry and Potential Application in Human Health
