Institute of Rheological Functions of Food (IRFF)

Scallop Secrets: Plasmalogens for Wellness

Using an innovative extraction method, we have successfully obtained high-purity plasmalogens from scallops, a renowned seafood product. Our process isolates two primary types: ethanolamine-type plasmalogen (PL-PE) and choline-type plasmalogen (PL-PC). The PL-PE fraction is enriched with 23.9% eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 38.9% docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and 9.0% arachidonic acid, while the PL-PC fraction contains 8.3% EPA, 50.2% DHA, and 3.4% arachidonic acid. For quality assurance, our standards ensure 100% purity for both the ethanolamine-type and choline-type plasmalogens, with the combined fraction (PL-PE + PL-PC) reaching a purity level of 78%. This advancement in plasmalogen extraction and production is supported by a series of patents, including Patent 5062873 for a complex lipid fraction, human sphingomyelin, and plasmalogen isolation, as well as Patent 5185539 detailing the method for producing sphingomyelin and plasmalogen-type glycerophospholipid. Additionally, Patent Application No. 2013-249902 covers the ether phospholipid and its manufacturing method, and Patent Application No. 2014-170286 outlines a quantitative method for ether phospholipids.