New York, NY—Krill oil supplier Neptune Technologies & Bioressources Inc., based in Quebec, Canada, brought out a new secret weapon during a media lunch at SupplySide Marketplace in May.

John Elway, former star quarterback for the Denver Broncos, will be an ambassador for the brand. Elway was the first quarterback to start in five Super Bowls—winning one with MVP distinction—and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during his first year of eligibility.

Elway had been taking fish oil omega-3 supplements for a few years before his son suggested he try Neptune krill oil (NKO). Thanks to decades of hard hitting, the football champ is no stranger to aching joints. But, he credits Neptune krill oil (NKO) and its anti-inflammation benefits for bringing him some relief.

As for the partnership with Neptune, Elway says he was drawn to the firm for several reasons. “It’s a company you want to be associated with,” he said. “It’s a pioneer.”

Elway hopes being an ambassador for Neptune will raise awareness of the benefits that omegas (especially Neptune’s krill oil) can offer athletes. “Athletes these days are into what they put into their bodies,” Elway said, noting that most teams have nutritionists on staff. But as for the visibility of krill oil in athletic circles, “we’ve got a long way to go.”

One area gaining traction in research circles is the potential for omegas to support those with sports-related head injuries. Of course, the heart and joint health benefits of omega-3 supplements are well established.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, July 2012 (online 5/18/12)