Helping to expedite the processing of fatty acid blood samples coming from Australia and the Asia-Pacific region, OmegaQuant, a leader in omega-3 and fatty acid blood testing, has partnered with Australia’s science agency, CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization).

Omega-3s, specifically EPA and DHA, are important for heart, brain, eye, and joint health. But most people don’t get enough of these fatty acids, which can increase their risk of several serious health issues.
 
The only way for a person to know how much of these omega-3s they are getting from their diet or supplements is by testing their omega-3 level, which is also known as the Omega-3 Index.
 
The Omega-3 Index is expressed as a percent of total red blood cell (RBC) fatty acids and is a long-term, stable marker of omega-3 status that accurately reflects tissue levels of EPA and DHA. An Omega-3 Index between 8% and 12% is considered the optimal range. 
 
Blood samples can be collected at home or in a GP’s office by a finger prick. Only one drop of blood is needed. In a matter of weeks, test-takers will receive a detailed explanation of their results.
 
The Omega-3 Index test was developed by William S. Harris, PhD, an internationally recognized expert in omega-3 fatty acids, who has spent several decades studying these nutrients. The test itself has been used in more than 200 studies and referenced more than 700 times in various research papers.
 
Harris founded OmegaQuant in 2009 and has received several institutional grants for studies on the effects of fatty acids on human health. He currently has more than 300 publications in this field of research.
 
Studies using the Omega-3 Index in Australia have reported an average level of about 5%, which is well below the target value of 8-12%. But Australians are not alone. Many populations globally struggle to make it above 6%. The Omega-3 Index test is a first step people can take to improve their omega-3 status.
 
The Omega-3 Index can be increased by simple dietary modification or supplementation with fish, krill or algal oils containing EPA and DHA. Once people know their level, they can immediately make changes to improve their Omega-3 Index.
 
The Partnership
For over a century, CSIRO has been at the forefront of solving the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. But it’s tomorrow’s innovations that excites the organization—wearable technology that alerts a doctor when you are sick, digital tools to support dietary change, and more.

“Omega-3s are so important for consumers of all ages and tests of nutritional status such as the Omega-3 Index will only encourage people to make better choices and take the steps needed to improve their health. We are proud to partner with OmegaQuant, as they bring innovation and a strong foundation of science to the table,” said Dr. Welma Stonehouse, Group Leader in the Nutrition and Health Program at CSIRO.

OmegaQuant will continue to support fatty acid research and the use of Omega-3 Index testing to improve health in the APAC region through its collaboration with CSIRO. It will also continue to seek out partners interested in bringing the benefits of omega-3 testing to the APAC region.

“Having a partner like CSIRO in the APAC region will help elevate the importance of omega-3 testing. CSIRO’s reputation in Australia, and throughout the world, is excellent and we are excited to be working so closely with them,” said Jason Polreis, CEO, OmegaQuant.