Improving the n − 3 HUFA composition of Artemia using microcapsules containing marine oils

Preparation of gelatin-acacia microcapsules containing cod liver oil or squid oil, and their use for highly unsaturated fatty acid (HUFA) enrichment of Artemia nauplii is described. These microcapsules were readily ingested by Artemia nauplii and were visible in the gut a few minutes after the start of enrichment. Ingestion of microcapsules containing cod liver oil or squid oil resulted in a significant increase in the HUFA content of nauplii after only 1 h. The level of HUFA enrichment was influenced by the density of nauplii during the enrichment procedure; a reduction in the density of nauplii resulted in a large increase in their HUFA content. The levels of HUFA enrichment achieved in this study compare well with similar studies. Gelatin-acacia microcapsules containing marine oils are a suitable means for HUFA enrichment of Artemia; they allow inexpensive enrichment diets to be made on-site and may offer a cheaper alternative to commercial enrichment preparations.