Microalgae: An alternative natural source of bioavailable omega-3 DHA for promotion of mental health in East Africa

Mental health illness associated with poor nutrition is a serious public concern worldwide. The most at risk individuals are children and adolescents in the developing world. Deficiencies in omega-3 DHA fatty acids have long been recognized as a major contributing factor for mental health illnesses. Provision of products rich in omega-3 DHA could address this problem. But most commonly used products do not have preformed omega-3 DHA, making them less suitable for prevention of mental illnesses in resource-poor countries. The objective of this study was to provide a narration of the best alternative source of bioavailable omega-3 DHA for promotion of mental health in developing countries. This study identified microalgae as the best natural source of preformed omega-3 DHA over fish oil which has been reported to contain heavy metals, antibiotics and other contaminants that may pose a serious safety concerns to consumers. The study has further narrated future opportunities around microalgae in East Africa. One of the opportunities is development of a business model that could accelerate sustainable production and utilization of microalgae for improved nutrition and health in Eastern Africa. (C) 2019 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of African Institute of Mathematical Sciences / Next Einstein Initiative.