![\"04_08](\"https:\/\/www.nutracapusa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/04_08-Market-for-Omega-3.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The omega-3s include the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and the longer-chain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).<\/p>\n
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\u2019s ability to convert ALA into EPA and\/or DHA is inefficient, making ingestion of pre-formed EPA and DHA beneficial.<\/p>\n
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\u00a0yield a \u201cfishy\u201d taste that is unappealing to consumers.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n