Expanding Omega-3 Possibilities for Functional Foods

Back in the 1970s, researchers first identified the benefits of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA and EPA, when they studied why Greenland Inuit people consumed large amounts of fat from meat, but displayed little cardiovascular disease. The scientists discovered the high level of omega-3 fatty in their diet reduced triglycerides, heart rate, blood pressure, and atherosclerosis.

This and other research led to the FDA’s qualified health claim for EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids " Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. One serving of [name of food] provides [x] grams of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids."

Omega-3 fatty acids continue to be one of the most thoroughly researched functional food ingredients around the globe. Not only are they considered important in heart health, a host of health benefits are being revealed in ongoing research. Just in the past several months, we’ve seen the following:

·         Consuming a daily diet rich in foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the severity of brain damage by 25% after a stroke, according to a study published in the journal Stroke.

·         Increasing daily consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, a main compound present in fish oil, reduces inflammation and anxiety in healthy young adults, according to a study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity.

·         A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may boost the protective effects of the breast cancer drug tamoxifen, according to new research presented at the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) 102nd Annual Meeting 2011.

So no one should be surprised that, according to Packaged Facts’  "Omega-3: Global Product Trends and Opportunities" report, global consumer spending on omega-3 food and beverage products (excluding fish), health- and beauty-care products (including supplements), and pet products will reach $13 billion in 2011.

For those who want to learn more about omega-3 opportunities, a comprehensive look at omega-3 issues will be presented on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011 at a SupplySide West workshop: ”GOED Exchange Update: Regulatory and State-of-the-Market Issues for EPA and DHA Omega 3.” Sponsored by Aker BioMarine, Golden Omega and The Scoular Company, this in-depth workshop covers the current situation in global regulations, claims issues, market trends, sustainability, and other key factors that are impacting the business. A must-attend for those actively involved in designed new omega-3-fortified foods and beverages and for those just getting their feet wet in the business.

-Lynn A. Kuntz