Fermented Skate Liver Oil: A Traditional Marine Oil Explained
Most people have heard of cod liver oil, but far fewer know about skate liver oil. Skates are flat, cartilaginous fish related to sharks and rays, and their large livers have long been valued in coastal fishing communities. Green Pasture produces a fermented skate liver oil using the same traditional, non-heated approach as its cod liver oil. Live Pine carries it as 120 capsules and as a Spicy Orange liquid. Here is what makes it interesting.
What Are Skates?
Skates belong to the family Rajidae. Like sharks and rays, their skeletons are made of cartilage rather than bone. They live on the sea floor in cool waters around the world. In Korea, fermented skate (hongeo-hoe) is a famous and pungent regional delicacy from the south-western province of Jeolla, so skate already has a place in Korean fermentation culture.
Skate Liver Oil vs. Cod Liver Oil
Both are marine liver oils, but they come from very different fish and have different profiles:
| Feature | Cod liver oil | Skate liver oil |
|---|---|---|
| Fish type | Bony fish | Cartilaginous fish (shark and ray family) |
| Notable compounds | Vitamins A and D, EPA, DHA | Alkylglycerols, squalene, vitamins A and D, omega-3s |
| Flavour | Strong fishy taste | Often described as milder |
| Traditional use | Northern Europe | Coastal communities, including in the Atlantic |
Alkylglycerols: The Distinctive Compound
The livers of sharks and skates are notably rich in alkylglycerols (AKGs), a type of lipid that is also present in small amounts in human breast milk, bone marrow and the spleen. Swedish researcher Astrid Brohult began studying alkylglycerols from shark liver oil in the 1950s, and scientists have since explored them in laboratory and animal studies, particularly in relation to immune function. Human evidence remains limited, so these findings should be seen as early-stage science.
Cartilaginous fish livers also contain squalene, a natural compound that is part of human skin oil and is widely used in cosmetics.
Other Nutrients
- Vitamin A: naturally occurring retinol for vision, immunity and skin.
- Vitamin D: supports calcium absorption and bone health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: including EPA and DHA, though amounts may differ from cod liver oil.
Because the oil is minimally processed and nothing is added back, nutrient levels vary naturally from batch to batch.
Why Fermented?
Green Pasture uses a fermentation method that avoids high heat. Supporters of this method believe it keeps the oil closer to its natural state, similar to how fish livers were traditionally processed by allowing oils to separate naturally. Heat-processed and refined oils are more common, cheaper and milder tasting; fermented oils have a stronger, more complex flavour.
Skate Liver Oil and the Pineal Gland
On our homepage, Live Pine describes red pine needle oil and fermented skate liver oil as a combination our founders value for the pineal gland. This reflects a traditional and personal perspective within our community. It is fair to say plainly that there is no clinical research showing that skate liver oil or pine oil activates or cleanses the pineal gland. We share it as part of our philosophy, not as a medical claim.
Liquid or Capsules?
- Capsules: convenient, tasteless and easy to travel with.
- Spicy Orange liquid: flavoured to make taking the oil more pleasant, and allows flexible serving sizes.
Take with a meal containing fat for best absorption, and follow label serving sizes.
Who Might Choose Skate Over Cod?
- People who find cod liver oil's taste too strong
- Those interested specifically in alkylglycerols
- People who like rotating different traditional marine oils
Safety Considerations
- Fat-soluble vitamins: vitamins A and D accumulate in the body; avoid stacking multiple sources without checking totals.
- Pregnancy: high vitamin A intake is linked to birth defects; consult your healthcare provider.
- Blood thinners: fish oils may increase bleeding tendency; seek medical advice if on anticoagulants.
- Fish and seafood allergy: avoid.
- Surgery: many doctors recommend pausing fish oil supplements before procedures.
Storage Tips
Marine oils are sensitive to oxidation. Keep bottles tightly closed, refrigerate liquids after opening if the label recommends it, and keep capsules in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Combining With a Nutrient-Dense Diet
Marine oils are a supplement to good food, not a substitute. Eating oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel twice a week, along with plenty of vegetables, whole foods and adequate protein, gives your body a strong foundation. Read our guides to fermented cod liver oil and high-vitamin butter oil to compare the Green Pasture range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is skate liver oil sustainable?
Some skate species are vulnerable to overfishing, so sourcing matters. Ask suppliers about the species and fishery.
Can I take skate and cod liver oil together?
Some people rotate them, but taking both increases vitamin A and D intake. Check total amounts with a professional.
The Takeaway
Fermented skate liver oil is a distinctive traditional marine oil, notable for alkylglycerols and squalene alongside fat-soluble vitamins. It offers an alternative for people interested in traditional nutrition, used within label guidance and with professional advice where needed.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Live Pine products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting a new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a health condition.
