WASPU is the Mi’kmaq word for Seal
In Indigenous culture, the seal represents imagination, creativity, trust, and integrity
For hundreds of years Indigenous cultures of Newfoundland and Labrador have relied upon seals. Within the spirit of this Seal, we see the ancient Mi’kmaq Eight-Pointed Star with the four direction colours symbolizing diversity and inclusiveness of all nations on Earth.
Mi’kmaq double curve designs are painted on each side of the Mi’kmaq Star representing balance of nature, environmental conservation, and stewardship.
Logo by local Mi’kmaq artist, Marcus Gosse
Why Seal Oil?
Seal oil contains "healthy fats" known as Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids in seal oil include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA).
Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats that are needed to maintain good health. Our bodies are unable to produce these essential fatty acids, even though they are critical for its proper functioning! Thus, omega-3s must be consumed through food or supplements.
Health benefits associated with Omega-3’s include:
- Decrease risk of heart disease and cardiovascular disease
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce or prevent inflammatory diseases i.e. arthritis, hypertension, Crohn’s disease, cancer, skin diseases,depression
- Promote nerve regeneration in patients with type 1 diabetes
- Promote fetal and infant visual and brain development
Research suggests that because seals are mammals, as are humans, seal oil is more easily processed and absorbed by our bodies than Omega-3 fish oils or plant-based omega-3 supplements.
Additionally, seal oil contains a very unique omega-3, DPA, which is not found in fish oil or plant-based supplements. DPA naturally occurs in mother’s breast milk and is proven to have powerful health benefits. DPA is also responsible for increasing the amount of EPA and DHA that the body absorbs.
We do not inherit the Earth from our parents. We borrow it from our children - Ancient Native Proverb
Sustainable
Harp seals are sustainably and humanely harvested from the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.
The nutrient rich seal oil is rendered here in Newfoundland, and is further refined to remove any contaminants (trace metals, oxidation values, PCBs, dioxins and furons).
Waspu oil capsules are bottled and packaged in Newfoundland.
Healthy
WASPU Omega-3 Seal oil meets or exceeds all Canadian and World Health Organization standards. WASPU Seal Oil brings the healthy goodness of the ocean to you while promoting environmental stewardship and balance within our marine ecosystem.
Quality
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and/or Health Canada certify all facilities used in the production chain. Waspu Oil capsules are produced with GMP Certification
Indigenous Owned
Waspu branded products are 100% owned by Mi’Kmaq Commercial Fisheries (MCF). MCF is an independent, indigenous company owned by the Qalipu First Nation (QFN). Qalipu members possess inherent rights to engage in fishing
activities in areas adjacent to their traditional, ancestral lands and
waters.
Where does the profit go?
Seal oil is a natural by-product of a humanely harvested marine food source.
Seals are impacting the survivability of other marine species. The limited harvest off the coasts of Newfoundland has virtually no impact on overall seal populations.
Seals have been harvested by indigenous peoples who have populated Newfoundland and Labrador for thousands of years. The hunting, consumption and diversified usage of seals is interwoven into First Nation people’s heritage, traditions and culture.
All proceeds derived from Waspu Oil are directed back to support our communities and culture.