Studies Finds Mussels Are Viable Source of Omega-3’s

Mussels are high in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and are
also a good source of protein and essential amino acids. A recent study has
found that mussels are a viable source for increasing omega-3 levels.

Twelve people participated in the study. Three times per week for
two weeks they consumed a personalized lunch that derived approximately 20% of
its calories from cooked mussels. Each participant received an average of 709.2
mg of EPA + DHA per meal from the mussels. Blood samples were taken throughout
the study to measure omega-3 levels.

At the end of the study, the participants had significant increases
in the omega-3 index, as well as whole blood EPA content. Six of the twelve
participants improved their omega-3 status to a degree that is associated with
a 20% reduction in sudden cardiac death risk.

The researchers noted that mussels might be a more environmentally
sustainable way of achieving sufficient protein intake than other protein
sources. The greenhouse gas emissions related to mussel production are a
fraction of that related to production of other protein sources such as pork,
beef, or chicken.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of
Stirling, Australia. It was published online ahead of print on October 2, 2019
in the journal Nutrients.