DPA
Also known as Docosapentaenoic acid, 22:5 n-3
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fat that sits between EPA and DHA in the body's omega-3 pathway. It is found in fish and some meats and appears to share the heart and anti-inflammatory benefits of the better-known omega-3s.
Why it matters
What it does in your body
- Intermediate between EPA and DHA in the body
- Acts as a reserve that can convert to EPA
- Supports heart and blood vessel health
- Involved in tissue repair and inflammation resolution
Intake guidance
How much you need
There is no separate intake target for DPA. It is part of the long-chain omega-3 group and comes along with EPA and DHA in fish, so meeting general omega-3 guidance covers it.
What affects it
What affects your intake
Comes with other omega-3s
DPA is found alongside EPA and DHA in oily fish, so a fish-inclusive diet supplies it naturally.
Also in some meats
Unlike EPA and DHA, DPA is present in modest amounts in red meat, a minor source for meat eaters.
Emerging research
DPA is less studied than EPA and DHA but appears to offer similar cardiovascular benefits.
In practice
Good to know
Good to know: DPA is the quiet middle child of the omega-3 family, overshadowed by EPA and DHA but present in the same foods. Research suggests it carries similar benefits, and it can act as a reserve the body converts back to EPA. There is no need to seek it out separately; a diet with fish supplies it.
Where to get it
Best food sources
The bottom line
DPA is a long-chain omega-3 that rides along with EPA and DHA in fish. Meeting your general omega-3 intake covers it, with no separate target.
Track dpa automatically
DPA is one of the 92 nutrients Vora reads from a photo of your meal, so you can see where you stand without weighing or logging by hand.
Sources and method
The classification, roles, and guidance on this page come from the references below, drawing on the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academies) Dietary Reference Intakes and reputable nutrition science.
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
- USDA FoodData Central
This page is for general education, not medical advice. Reference intakes are population averages for healthy people and do not replace guidance from your doctor or a registered dietitian, especially if you are pregnant, managing a health condition, or considering supplements.