Critical Extraction

QÜELL Omega–3 uses a Supercritical Dual–Process CO₂ technology to gently extract, concentrate, and purify the omega–3 fatty acids. The CO₂ prevents oxygen from being exposed to the oil, therefore protecting the oil from degradation.

The first step is called Supercritical Fluid Extraction. In this step, CO₂ under high pressure is pumped through minimally processed fish oil. Certain components of the oil including EPA and DHA, are soluble in the supercritical CO₂ and can be separated from the insoluble and less desirable fractions (saturated fats, cholesterol, contaminants). Once the pressure is reduced, the CO₂ exits its supercritical state and returns to a gas to be re–circulated through the system. The EPA and DHA is collected and moved to the second step in the purification process.

The second step is called Supercritical Fluid Chromatography, in which CO₂ is used as the solvent to separate and further purify and concentrate
EPA and DHA.