Catherine Saxelby's Foodwatch | Q. I’ve seen DHA listed on food labels. What is it and where do I find it?

Q. I’ve seen DHA listed on food labels. What is it and where do I find it?

 

A.  DHA stands for DocosaHexaenoic Acid, a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that forms part of our eye, brain and nerve tissues.  It is one of three key omega-3 fatty acids that are important in our health.

The others are:

• EPA, usually found together with DHA in fish, seafood and ultra-lean meats.
• ALA, a simpler plant form of DHA that’s in flaxseed, canola and green vegetables.

   It is a critical compound in our body’s brain, nerve and eye structure and is the most important of these well-studied omega-3s.  Everyone needs it throughout life but babies and toddlers whose body are growing have particularly high needs.

 

Many Australians don’t like fish or don’t eat enough, so manufacturers are now adding DHA (and other forms of fish oil) to foods like bread eg Tip Top Up sliced bread, eggs and low-fat milks.

 

 

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