Webinar preview: dsm-firmenich features new omega-3 research beyond established health benefits

The heart, brain and eye health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are well supported by research, but dsm-firmenich notes that consumers are less aware of how these nutrients can address other wellness concerns. In an upcoming webinar, science experts of the company will highlight emerging research on the additional benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), including sleep, mood and muscle health.

Ahead of the webinar, “Omega-3 fatty acids — The powerful allies to our health,” Nutrition Insight meets with dsm-firmenich’s expert speakers to learn more.

Elisabetta Nisoli, director of business development, Fresh Dairy and Dairy Alternatives at dsm-firmenich, says a growing global population is becoming increasingly health-conscious and actively seeks ways to improve their well-being. Omega-3s may play a beneficial role in supporting them in achieving their goals.

Maike Rahn, Ph.D., nutrition science expert in Health, Nutrition & Care at the company, notes that science is moving beyond the established benefits in heart, brain and eye health.  “Omega-3s are increasingly investigated for their role in mobility, muscle and mental health.”

Upping omega-3 intake

dsm-firmenich’s director of Nutrition Science, Maaike Bruins, Ph.D., highlights that people globally do not consume sufficient DHA and EPA to reach recommended intakes.

“This is confirmed by science showing that circulating levels of long-chain omega-3s (DHA and EPA) are insufficient in most of the adult population worldwide and very low in almost half of the population.”

“Improving our omega-3 intake is key to supporting various health goals throughout all stages of life,” says Bruins.

To help bridge this gap, dsm-firmenich offers life’s Omega, the first and only commercially available plant-based omega-3 that delivers the benefits of DHA and EPA fatty acids in a single, quality source. The company also recently expanded its algal omega-3 portfolio, launching a new potent algal DHA oil, life’s DHA.

This broad portfolio of lipid forms enables omega-3 integration into various applications, including dairy, plant-based dairy alternatives, baking and cereal.

However, successfully incorporating omega-3s into food products requires the right expertise. “To fully unlock innovation in the omega-3 market, you need an end-to-end partner to support at every stage of the product development process,’’ the team emphasizes.

“Through innovative technologies, it is easier for consumers to get the well-substantiated health benefits from omega-3 fatty acids while complying with sustainability goals.”

During the webinar, the speakers will present scientific studies on additional health benefits, such as sleep and mood support.Sleep and mood support

During the webinar, the speakers will present scientific studies on additional health benefits. Bruins and Rahn tease some research evidence on omega-3’s benefits in sleep and mood.

“A growing amount of evidence highlights the possible benefits of omega-3s for sleep throughout life. Science shows DHA and EPA can affect sleep quality; DHA, in particular, may help with sleep length in children. DHA may be associated with melatonin production — an important hormone that helps us fall asleep.”

The experts also point to the mood-boosting potential of DHA and EPA, as growing evidence shows these fatty acids may have a promising impact on symptoms associated with low mood.

“High-quality research studies show that omega-3 consumption can support emotional well-being, especially mood. Additional research has revealed that omega-3s help women maintain a healthy mood during pregnancy and after giving birth too, addressing concerns about maternal mental health during this phase of life.”

Room for algal-sourced omega-3s

Nisoli says fish are rich in DHA and EPA because they eat microalgae.

“For decades, our primary source of omega-3 has been fish oil. But this supply is not limitless, and with increased pressure on the fishing industry and a changing environment, fish oil faces bigger challenges than ever before.”

An increased pressure on the fishing industry and growing environmental concerns drive demand for plant-based omega-3 sources, such as algal oils.She adds that demand for sustainable sources is increasing. With a growing global population, climate change and increasing environmental concerns, plant-based sources such as algal oils are a top priority for brands looking to innovate sustainably.

“Environmentally conscious consumers often want to experience omega-3 health benefits without the impact on marine resources and biodiversity.” 

A trend toward more plant-based diets also drives interest in plant-sourced omega-3s.

“Algae-derived omega-3s fit well in a plant-based diet through, for instance, fortified plant-based milk alternatives,” says Nisoli. “This is very appealing to a new generation of environmentally conscious consumers, as well as vegans and vegetarians.”

Meanwhile, Bruins emphasizes the need to obtain omega-3 DHA and EPA from marine sources. The short-chain omega-3s in plants (α-linolenic acid) are not efficiently converted into DHA and EPA.

“With our algal oils, life’s Omega and life’s DHA, we go straight to the source of omega-3. We can let marine ecosystems and fish populations recover while ensuring that humans can enjoy the multiple health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.”