Aussie Blue Mussels out mussel NZ greenlip

LLPetsHealth Nutritional Insight

Rotation of Green-Lipped Mussels and Australian Blue Mussels for Canine Health

Purpose of this article: To provide information to veterinarians, animal health professionals, and inform pet owners with a comparative overview of the therapeutic and nutritional benefits of using both Perna canaliculus (Green-Lipped Mussel) and Mytilus galloprovincialis (Australian Blue Mussel) in rotational supplementation for dogs.

Green-Lipped Mussel (GLM) - Perna canaliculus

Origin: New Zealand

Omega-3 Profile (Literature-Based):

- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic ): 2.5–4.5 g/100g

- DHA (Docosahexaenoic): 1.5–3.0 g/100g

- ETA (Eicosatetraenoic Acid): Present (unique to GLM)

- Total Omega-3: 3.0–6.0 g/100g

- Omega-6: ~0.5–0.8 g/100g

Therapeutic Properties:

- Potent anti-inflammatory action via COX and LOX inhibition

- Contains ETA, shown to reduce joint inflammation and cartilage degradation

- Rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) for joint support

- Supports mobility, cartilage integrity, and skin condition

- Backed by multiple peer-reviewed clinical trials

Use Cases:

- Dogs with arthritis or joint degeneration

- Canines in active or high-impact work roles

- Post-operative orthopaedic recovery

Australian Blue Mussel - Mytilus galloprovincialis †

Origin: Jervis Bay, New South Wales, Australia

Omega-3 Profile (Lab Verified):

- DHA: 2.78 g/100g

- EPA: 1.84 g/100g

- Total Omega-3: 4.85 g/100g

- Omega-6: 0.85 g/100g

Therapeutic Properties:

- High in DHA for neurological and retinal development

- Significant EPA content for systemic inflammation modulation

- Contains glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) for musculoskeletal support

- Contributes to soft tissue recovery and joint health

- Rich in bioavailable omega-3s and suitable for rotational use

Use Cases:

- Puppies and senior dogs for cognitive health

- Active and working dogs requiring musculoskeletal support

- Maintenance in healthy dogs and prevention of degenerative change

Why Rotate?

Rotating between P. canaliculus and M. galloprovincialis offers a broader therapeutic spectrum:

Benefit GLM Blue Mussel

Joint Support

✔✔✔ (EPA, ETA, GAGs) ✔✔ (EPA, GAGs)

Cognitive Health

✔ (some DHA) ✔✔✔ (DHA-rich)

Skin & Coat Health

✔ ✔

Anti-inflammatory

✔✔✔ ✔✔

Budget Accessibility

✔ ✔✔✔

Sustainability

Moderate High

Nutrient Comparison Table (per 100g dry powder)

Nutrient

Blue Mussel Green-Lip Mussel

Protein (g) 68.3 60.0

Fat (g) 10.2 8.9

Calcium (mg) 283 240

Iron (mg) 24.3 19.0

Magnesium (mg) 206 180

Phosphorus (mg) 652 590

Potassium (mg) 1530 1350

Sodium (mg) 1470 1280

Zinc (mg) 6.7 4.2

Copper (mg) 2.1 1.8

Manganese (mg) 1.4 1.2

Vitamin B12 (µg) 98.0 89.6

Vitamin A (IU) 3200 3000

LLPetsHealth Recommendation

Alternate mussel powders every 4–6 weeks to:

- Balance EPA, DHA, and ETA intake

- Broaden the therapeutic scope for inflammatory, neurological, and joint conditions

- Prevent over-reliance on one species and support ecological sustainability

Note: Always source from verified suppliers who provide batch-specific omega-3 profiles and test for heavy metals and contaminants.

† Note on taxonomy: Mussels farmed in Jervis Bay are often generically labelled as "blue mussels". While some suppliers use Mytilus edulis on packaging, scientific and government sources confirm that the cultivated species in this region is Mytilus galloprovincialis, or hybrids thereof. It is regarded as endemic to these waters.

References:

1. Davidson, R. K., et al. (2008). "Effect of Green-lipped Mussel on Canine Osteoarthritis." J Nutr Sci.

2. Sutherland, W. H., et al. (2000). "Lipid Content and Fatty Acid Composition of Green-lipped Mussel." Am J Clin Nutr.

3. Australian Blue Mussel (Jervis Bay) lab analysis by Food Lab Australia, 2024 (provided by LL Pets Health).

4. Wu, T.H. et al. (2009). "Composition and Digestibility of Mussel Powder Nutrients." Food Chemistry.

5. NSW DPI (2023). "Expansion of Mussel Farming in Jervis Bay and Blue Harvest Aquaculture Programs."

6. ABC News Australia (2023). "Jervis Bay Mussel Farm Defends Species Use Amid Marine Park Debate."