Researchers warn of global omega-3 deficiencies and supply shortage

New research from Case Western Reserve University (US) warns of a global shortage of omega-3, partly due to environmental factors of rising ocean temperatures, overfishing, and pollution. The team of researchers also notes that 85% of the world’s population doesn’t get enough omega-3 in their diets.

Timothy Ciesielski, lead study author and a research scientist in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences at Case Western Reserve’s School of Medicine, says the findings concerningly present “serious and widespread health implications.”

“Our current food systems are not providing enough uncontaminated omega-3, and our access is expected to decrease in the near future.”

Imbalanced fatty acids

Published in the journal AJPM Focus, the study points out that, historically, humans consumed diets with balanced amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. However, the researchers underscore that today’s industrialized diets contain about 20 times more omega-6s than omega-3s. This imbalance is concerning for maintaining good health.

Balancing these nutrients in the diet can lower the risk of diseases related to chronic inflammation, such as heart disease, cancer, preterm birth, and some mental health issues, says Ciesielski.

He and his team note that about 15% of countries worldwide have managed to achieve sufficient omega-3 levels in their food, mainly due to ocean access — stressing the importance of protecting oceans and managing fisheries sustainably.

“This isn’t just a healthcare issue; it’s a public health and environmental challenge,” says Ciesielski. “Everyone should have the right to uncontaminated omega-3s in their diet. These are important questions that require our collective attention and action.”

Last year, Nutrition Insight examined the need for new omega-3 sources to keep up with growing consumer demand with the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s and krill oil specialist Aker BioMarine. 

Omega-3s, mainly found in fish and algae, help cells in the body function, particularly in the eyes and brain. The nutrients also provide the body with energy and support healthy cardiovascular and endocrine systems.