The primary oil found in the liver of the shark is squalene.
Understanding Squalene: Shark Liver's Natural Oil
Squalene is a natural organic compound, specifically a triterpene, found in significant quantities within the liver of sharks. This oil plays a vital role in shark physiology, contributing to their buoyancy and helping them maintain neutral buoyancy in water without a swim bladder, a common organ in most bony fish.
What is Squalene?
Squalene is a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C30H50. In its natural state, it is an oily substance. For commercial applications, especially in products requiring greater stability and a longer shelf life, squalene is often hydrogenated to form squalane. Squalane is a saturated form of squalene, making it more resistant to oxidation and degradation.
Sources and Applications of Squalene
While historically known for its presence in shark liver, squalene is not exclusive to marine animals. It is also found in various plant-based sources, making it a versatile compound with a broad range of uses.
Diverse Sources of Squalene:
- Shark Liver: Traditionally, shark liver has been a significant source, sometimes containing up to 60-70% squalene by weight.
- Plant-Based Alternatives: Squalene is naturally present in several botanical sources, offering sustainable alternatives:
- Olive Oil: A common dietary source that contains varying amounts of squalene.
- Sugarcane: Increasingly harvested for commercial squalene production due to its high yield and sustainability.
- Soapbox Trees (e.g., Saponaria officinalis): Another plant known to contain squalene.
- Other plant sources include amaranth, rice bran, and wheat germ.
Key Applications:
Squalene and its derivative, squalane, are highly valued for their unique properties, including their excellent emollient and moisturizing capabilities. They are extensively utilized across various industries:
- Synthesis of Other Compounds: Squalene serves as a crucial precursor in the biosynthesis of cholesterol, steroid hormones, and vitamin D within living organisms. Industrially, it is used for the creation of various specialized chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care: Squalane is a popular ingredient in skincare products, admired for its ability to moisturize, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It is found in creams, lotions, serums, and hair care products due to its non-greasy feel and compatibility with the skin's natural lipids.
- Nutritional Supplements: Squalene is also used in dietary supplements, often touted for its potential antioxidant properties and benefits for overall health.
Shark-Derived vs. Plant-Derived Squalene: A Comparative View
Although chemically identical, the origin of squalene carries important implications, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and ethical considerations.
| Feature | Shark-Derived Squalene | Plant-Derived Squalene |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source | Liver of various shark species | Olives, sugarcane, amaranth, rice bran, soapbox trees |
| Chemical Makeup | C30H50 | C30H50 |
| Sustainability | Concerns regarding shark conservation and overfishing | Renewable, generally more environmentally friendly |
| Processing | Often requires hydrogenation to squalane for stability | Can be directly extracted; often naturally more stable |
| Key Use Cases | Historically prominent in cosmetics, some pharmaceuticals | Dominant in modern cosmetics, food, industrial synthesis |
Environmental Considerations
The historical demand for shark-derived squalene has raised significant environmental concerns, contributing to the overfishing and decline of numerous shark populations, many of which are already vulnerable or endangered. This has spurred a global shift towards sustainable, plant-based sources of squalene. Companies are increasingly choosing squalene sourced from olives, sugarcane, or other botanicals. This transition offers an environmentally responsible alternative that aligns with ethical sourcing practices without compromising the quality or benefits of this valuable compound, supporting more sustainable production methods.
