Marine lipids overview: markets, regulation, and the value chain

Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s, 1075 Hollywood Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, United States

^* adam@goedomega3.com

Abstract

Scientific advances have propelled the market for EPA and DHA omega-3s to high growth rates and a significant size for consumer products by increasing media exposure and authoritative recommendations on the benefits of omega-3s. There are no signs that the rate of scientific advancement is slowing, which should continue to support the market and continue to lead to greater penetration in sectors like functional foods. The industry has acted proactively to set high standards to enable the market’s growth, and with significant investments into new sources of EPA and DHA, these standards will become even more important. Significant structural changes in the supply side of the market appear to be on the horizon both from the new sources and from the increasing demand for crude fish oils reaching the limits of available supply. Ultimately, economics will decide how the market evolves over the next 5 to 10 years.