Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for overall health. Mary Ann Siciliano, national sales manager, Aristra Industries Inc., said omega-3s have been found to be particularly good for heart health, joint and inflammation support, eye health, cognitive function, pregnancy and healthy child development and immune function, among other benefits.
The omega-3s include the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and the longer-chain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Plant-based sources of ALA omega-3 include flaxseed, chia seeds, canola, walnut and soybean oils and leafy and green vegetables. The short-chain omega-3 ALA can be converted in the body to the longer-chain omega-3s. However, the body’s ability to convert ALA into EPA and/or DHA is inefficient, making ingestion of pre-formed EPA and DHA beneficial.
The biggest challenge for both consumers and industry affecting consumption of omega-3 food supplements is taste. Marine sources of long-chain fatty acids often yield a “fishy” taste that is unappealing to consumers.
Proprietary research from the Global Organization of EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) showed highest supplement use is occurring in the United States, China and Australia. Statistica 2018 estimated the supplement market for omega-3 supplements in 2025 will reach US$57 billion, compared to $33 billion in 2016. This is indeed a steep growth for an individual supplement segment.
Consumption of omega-3-rich food is reasonably high in the high-population markets of China and India, but that is largely fresh-food based. As these economies evolve and nutrition management in the nouveau riche comes to vogue, the demand for supplements will rise.
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