Omega-3 Market
Omega-3 Market by Type (DHA, EPA, & ALA), Source (Marine & Plant), Application (Dietary Supplements, Functional Foods & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Infant Formulas, and Pet Food & Feed), Form, Manufacturing Technology, and Region - Global Forecast to 2030
OVERVIEW
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
The omega-3 market is estimated to be USD 4.36 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 7.76 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2025 to 2030. One significant driver is the increasing awareness among consumers of the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids, including their positive effects on heart health, brain function, and joint health. This growing awareness is prompting more individuals to seek out omega-3-rich foods and supplements as part of their daily diet. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders and cognitive decline, is also fueling demand for omega-3 products, which are perceived to have preventive and therapeutic properties.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The North American omega-3 market accounted for a 36.8% revenue share in 2025.
- By source, the marine segment is expected to register the highest CAGR of 12.4%.
- By application, the infant formula segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate from 2025 to 2030.
- By type, the DHA segment is expected to dominate the market.
- The dry segment is projected to lead the market, with a CAGR of 12.5%.
- dsm-firmenich, Cargill Incorporated, and BASF SE were identified as some of the star players in the omega-3 market, given their strong market share and product footprint.
- BTSA, Golden Omega, and KinOmega Biopharm Inc., among others, have distinguished themselves among startups and SMEs by securing strong footholds in specialized niche areas, underscoring their potential as emerging market leaders.
The omega-3 market is experiencing growth driven by multiple factors. One significant driver is the increasing awareness among consumers of the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids, including their positive effects on heart health, brain function, and joint health. This growing awareness is prompting more individuals to seek out omega-3-rich foods and supplements as part of their daily diet. Moreover, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders and cognitive decline is fueling demand for omega-3 products, which are perceived to have preventive and therapeutic properties.
TRENDS & DISRUPTIONS IMPACTING CUSTOMERS' CUSTOMERS
Increasing popularity of plant-based diets has led to a growing demand for vegan and vegetarian sources of omega-3, driving innovation in the market with more plant-based omega-3 supplements and fortified foods. Originally sourced from fish oil, krill oil, and other marine oils, the market is now expanding to include algal and plant-based options to meet sustainability and vegetarian demands. The industry has been driven by growing health concerns, improvements in extraction and stabilization technology, and increasing regulatory acceptance for fortified foods. With ongoing innovation in delivery forms and expanded uses, omega-3 ingredients continue to be a central part of the global health and wellness industry, contributing to heart, brain, and eye health, and inflammation control.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
MARKET DYNAMICS
Level
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Growing focus of food processing companies on fortification
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Emergence of innovative production technologies
Level
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Lower fish oil supply due to sustainability issues among fisheries
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Lack of clarity among consumers about daily recommended intake and health claims
Level
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Integration of microencapsulation technology
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Favorable regulatory environment
Level
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High cost involved in R&D activities
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Highly unstable fish oil prices
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Driver: Growing focus of food processing companies on fortification
Omega-3 is an important component in functional foods and pharmaceuticals. Traditionally, it was mainly taken as a health supplement. However, as more research has been done and consumers become more aware, marketers have become interested in incorporating omega-3 into different processed foods and beverages, such as dairy products, cereals, and breads. This expansion of omega-3 applications into the food processing industry not only provides consumers with convenient and accessible sources of omega-3 fatty acids but also creates new opportunities for market growth and product innovation within the omega-3 industry.
Restraint: Lack of clarity among consumers about daily recommended intake and health claims
The market for omega-3 in the form of dietary supplements and fortified foods & beverages is facing a significant challenge due to the absence of official recommended doses. Despite extensive scientific research conducted by governments and non-government organizations, there is no clear standard dose of omega-3 for daily intake. This has resulted in confusion among consumers, which can lead to disastrous results. Omega-3 is an important food supplement that can help prevent various health-related issues, such as reducing the risk of heart & metabolic health, brain & mental health, improving brain function, and assist with other autoimmune diseases. However, non-standard doses result in improper dosage, leading to very few or no health benefits. This situation is particularly concerning in developing countries such as India, China, Brazil, and Argentina, where consumer awareness is low, and there is a lack of adequate primary healthcare infrastructure.
Opportunity: Integration of microencapsulation technology
With a rise in global health consciousness, the demand for fortified beverages, particularly dairy products, has increased significantly. Fortification involves several processes that must maintain the original color, texture, flavor, and nutritional profile of the products. As a result, encapsulation technology is frequently used to offer controlled release of nutrients in fortified food & beverages. Consumers often expect fresh fish oil supplements but are dismayed by the fishy smell caused by oxidation, which raises concerns about product quality and safety. Microencapsulation technology provides a solution by creating stable emulsions of omega-3 oil, thereby enhancing absorption and reducing oxidation risks.
Challenge: High cost involved in R&D activities
The omega-3 market incurs high costs associated with research & development due to various factors. Firstly, exploring alternative sources of omega-3, such as algae or krill, requires significant financial resources for conducting scientific research. Investing in equipment, facilities, and specialized expertise to optimize extraction techniques and maximize yield and purity also involves substantial investment. Moreover, evaluating the efficacy, safety, and health benefits of omega-3 products through clinical trials and studies entails considerable expenses. These trials often involve recruiting participants, conducting tests, collecting data, and analyzing results, all of which incur substantial costs.
Omega-3 Market: COMMERCIAL USE CASES ACROSS INDUSTRIES
| COMPANY | USE CASE DESCRIPTION | BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
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Aker BioMarine leveraged Vitafoods Europe 2024 as a platform to showcase its dual expertise in marine (krill oil) and plant-based (algae oil) omega-3 solutions. By introducing FloraMarine, an algae-based DHA product, the company demonstrates its ability to meet growing B2B demand for sustainable, plant-based alternatives while maintaining its leadership in marine-derived nutrition. | Aker BioMarine gains stronger market positioning by expanding into the fast-growing plant-based omega-3 space while reinforcing its leadership in sustainable nutrition. The launch at Vitafoods drives brand visibility, customer engagement, and new B2B growth opportunities. |
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Epax introduced EPAX Evolve 05, the first commercially available VLC-PUFA (very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid) concentrate, at Vitafoods Europe 2024. The product, derived from fish oil and enriched to deliver ~10x higher VLC-PUFA content, targets the healthy ageing and specialty health markets (vision, bone, muscle, skin, and fertility). | Epax secures a first-mover advantage in the omega-3 market with the world’s first VLC-PUFA concentrate, backed by EU and US regulatory approvals. This launch expands its reach into the healthy ageing and specialty health segments while strengthening its reputation as an innovation leader. |
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Utilizing its innovative biotechnology platform, in April 2023, MiAlgae successfully launched NaturAlgae, a dry powder with a high concentration of DHA and other oils. This product can be seamlessly integrated into aquafeeds and pet food recipes, providing the well-known health benefits of omega-3. | Following the recent expansion of its commercial production site north of Glasgow, MiAlgae is poised for significant growth in the aquaculture and pet food sectors. |
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET ECOSYSTEM
The market map of the ecosystem is categorized into demand-side and supply-side companies. The omega-3 market is a dynamic and rapidly expanding ecosystem characterized by diverse stakeholders and innovative products. BASF SE (Germany), Cargill, Incorporated (US), dsm-firmenich (Netherlands), ADM (US), Kerry Group plc (Ireland), Aker BioMarine (Norway), Croda International plc (UK), and Corbion (Netherlands) spearhead product innovation and market penetration, while numerous smaller enterprises enhance the competitive landscape. The ecosystem includes ingredient suppliers, regulatory bodies & associations, small and medium-sized enterprises, and demand-side companies.
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET SEGMENTS
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Omega-3 Market, By Source
The marine segment is poised to dominate the omega-3 market, by source, mainly due to the fact that fish oil and krill oil are naturally high in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), the most bioactive and well-studied forms of omega-3 fatty acids. These two are better absorbed by the human body than plant sources such as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), and therefore, they are greatly favored for cardiovascular, brain, and eye health.
Omega 3 Market, By Application
Due to their extensively studied health advantages, omega-3 fatty acids are utilized in functional foods and beverages. These indispensable fatty acids, encompassing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), serve vital functions in human health, notably in bolstering cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and mitigating inflammation. Functional foods and beverages offer a convenient avenue for individuals to integrate omega-3 fatty acids into their daily dietary regimen, particularly beneficial for those who may not regularly consume fatty fish, the primary source of omega-3s. Enhanced products like yogurt, milk, juices, bread, and snack bars serve as accessible alternatives for individuals seeking to augment their omega-3 intake without resorting to supplements
Omega 3 Market, By type
The DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) segment leads the omega-3 market owing to its critical role in brain, eye, and nervous system health, making it essential across all age groups, particularly for infants and aging adults. The primary drivers are increasing consumer knowledge of its role in cognitive development, vision, cardiovascular health, and healthy aging, as well as growing use in infant formulas, functional foods, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals.
REGION
Asia Pacific market to grow at significant rate during forecast period
The Asia Pacific omega-3 market is experiencing robust growth as growing spending on health supplement products and increasing knowledge of the health benefits of omega-3s for heart, brain, and joint health fuel demand. In addition to this, the high prevalence of chronic diseases and an ageing population in pursuit of preventive healthcare underpin demand. The expanding infant nutrition industry is also a key contributor, as omega-3s play a key role in early brain development. Government health programs and demographic developments are making the market environment conducive to growth. The market will experience the most rapid growth in this region, offering significant growth opportunities for producers. Developing new products is a prime field, such as adding omega-3s to functional foods, drinks, and other ready-to-go formats to attract more consumers. Demand is also increasing for plant- and algae-derived omega-3s due to sustainability and vegan consumerism. Product taste and stability can be improved through technologies such as microencapsulation by manufacturers. Market diversification and expansion can also be achieved through opportunities in animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and clinical nutrition
Omega-3 Market: COMPANY EVALUATION MATRIX
In the omega-3 market matrix, dsm-firmenich (Netherlands) and Cargill, Incorporated (US) are the key star players that lead the market through their high-quality omega-3 ingredients. life’S DHA from dsm-firmenich is a plant-based source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 extracted from algae, delivering crucial advantages for brain and eye health at every life stage. ALGARITHM (Emerging Leader) is gaining traction with its product innovations in the omega-3 market.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
KEY MARKET PLAYERS
MARKET SCOPE
| REPORT METRIC | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Market Size in 2024 (Value) | USD 3.91 Billion |
| Market Forecast in 2030 (value) | USD 7.76 Billion |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 12.2% from 2025-2030 |
| Years Considered | 2021–2030 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025–2030 |
| Units Considered | Value (USD Million), Volume (Kilotons) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue forecast, market share, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Segments Covered | Type, source, application, form, manufacturing technology (qualitative), and region |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and Rest of the World (RoW) |
WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU: Omega-3 Market REPORT CONTENT GUIDE
DELIVERED CUSTOMIZATIONS
We have successfully delivered the following deep-dive customizations:
| CLIENT REQUEST | CUSTOMIZATION DELIVERED | VALUE ADDS |
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| APAC-based Omega-3 Manufacturers |
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| Functional Food Segment Assessment |
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RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
- July 2025 : Corbion received regulatory approval in China for its algae-based omega-3 solutions, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. These omega-3 ingredients, derived from microalgae, are designed for use in nutritional supplements, functional foods, and beverages, offering a sustainable and plant-based alternative to traditional fish oil. The approval enables Corbion to enter one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets for health and wellness products, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility in the nutraceutical sector.
- April 2025 : Epax, a subsidiary of Pelagia AS, launched EPAX Evolve 05, the world’s first commercially available VLC-PUFA (Very Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid) product. VLC-PUFAs are a unique class of omega-3 fatty acids with promising benefits for vision, skin health, male fertility, bone density, and muscle strength, especially in the context of healthy aging.
- March 2025 : Nordmann (Germany) partnered with Aker BioMarine to distribute its marine-based health products, superba krill oil, revervia algae oil, and pl+, across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These products are rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which support heart and liver health. Superba krill oil delivers omega-3s in phospholipid form for better absorption, while revervia offers the highest natural concentration of DHA omega-3 from algae. This strategic collaboration aims to expand access to sustainable, high-quality omega-3 supplements in Central Europe.
- May 2024 : Brenntag (Germany) signed a strategic partnership agreement with Aker Biomarine to distribute krill oil-based health supplements in Southeast Asia. The deal includes products like Superba 2, Superba Boost, and Antarctic krill oil 2, which are known for their clinically proven health benefits.
- February 2024 : Bioriginal Food & Science Corp. (Bioriginal), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cooke Inc., completed the acquisition of POS Biosciences Corp. (POS) of Saskatoon from Canopy Growth Corp. POS (Proteins, Oils and Starches), previously known as KeyLeaf Life Sciences, will maintain its independent operations.
Table of Contents
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Methodology
This study involved two major approaches in estimating the current size of the omega-3 market. Exhaustive secondary research was done to collect information on the type, source, application, form, and manufacturing technology (qualitative) segments of the market. The next step involved validating these findings, assumptions, and sizing with industry experts across the value chain through primary research. Both top-down and bottom-up approaches were employed to estimate the complete market size. Thereafter, data triangulation was used to estimate the market size of segments and subsegments.
Secondary Research
This research study involved the use of extensive secondary sources—directories and databases such as Bloomberg Businessweek and Factiva—to identify and collect information useful for a technical, market-oriented, and commercial market study. In the secondary research process, sources such as annual reports, press releases & investor presentations of companies, white papers, food journals, certified publications, articles from recognized authors, directories, and databases were referred to to identify and collect information. Secondary research was mainly used to obtain key information about the industry’s supply chain, the pool of key players, and market classification and segmentation as per the industry trends to the bottom-most level, regional markets, and key developments from market- and technology-oriented perspectives.
Primary Research
Extensive primary research was conducted after obtaining information regarding the omega-3 market scenario through secondary research. Several primary interviews were conducted with market experts from the demand and supply sides across major countries of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Rest of the World. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, emails, and telephonic interviews. The primary sources from the supply side included various industry experts, such as chief experience officers (CXOs), vice presidents (VPs), directors from business development, marketing, research, and development teams, and related key executives from distributors and key opinion leaders. Primary interviews were conducted to gather insights such as market statistics, data on revenue collected from the products and services, market breakdowns, market size estimations, market forecasting, and data triangulation. Primary research also helped understand the various trends related to type, source, application, form, and region. Stakeholders from the demand side, such as functional food & beverage manufacturers, dietary supplement manufacturers, pharmaceutical product manufacturers, infant formula manufacturers, and pet-food & feed product manufacturers, were interviewed to understand the buyers’ perspective on the suppliers, products, and the outlook of their business, which will affect the overall market.
Note: The three tiers of the companies are defined based on their total revenues in 2023 or 2024,
as per the availability of financial data: Tier 1: Revenue >USD 1 billion; Tier 2: USD 100 million = revenue = USD 1 billion; Tier 3:
Revenue
To know about the assumptions considered for the study, download the pdf brochure
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COMPANY NAME |
DESIGNATION |
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Cargill, Incorporated (US) |
Product Development Manager |
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Kerry Group plc (Ireland) |
Sales Head |
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Corbion (Netherlands) |
Marketing Head |
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Golden Omega (Chile) |
Sales Head |
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dsm-firmenich (Netherlands) |
Senior Research Executive |
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Algalr Nutrapharms Private Limited (India) |
Business Development Manager |
Market Size Estimation
The top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the total size of the omega-3 market. These approaches were also used extensively to determine the size of various subsegments in the market. The research methodology used to estimate the market size includes the following details:
- The key players in the industry and the overall markets were identified through extensive secondary research.
- All shares, splits, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through primary sources.
- All possible parameters that affect the market covered in this research study were accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to obtain final quantitative and qualitative data.
- The research included the study of reports, reviews, and newsletters of top market players, along with extensive interviews for opinions from leaders, such as CEOs, directors, and marketing executives.
Omega-3 Market : Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approach
Data Triangulation
After determining the overall market size from the estimation process explained above, the total market was split into several segments and subsegments. The data triangulation procedure was employed, wherever applicable, to estimate the overall omega-3 market and arrive at the exact statistics for all segments and subsegments. The data was triangulated by studying various factors and trends from the demand and supply sides. The market size was also validated using both the top-down and bottom-up approaches.
Market Definition
According to the US Department of Health & Human Services, "Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) have a carbon-carbon double bond located three carbons from the methyl end of the chain. Omega-3s, sometimes referred to as "n-3s," are present in certain foods, such as flaxseed and fish, as well as dietary supplements, such as fish oil. Several different omega-3s exist, but the majority of scientific research focuses on three: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA contains 18 carbon atoms, whereas EPA and DHA are considered "long-chain" (LC) omega-3s because EPA contains 20 carbons, and DHA contains 22. ALA is found mainly in plant oils, such as flaxseed, soybean, and canola. DHA and EPA are found in fish and other seafood."
The market scope considered here for omega-3 is at the ingredient level and not at the end-use level.
Stakeholders
- Raw material suppliers of omega-3
- Omega-3 ingredient manufacturers, suppliers, and dealers
- API, pharmaceutical products, and fortified food manufacturers
- Fisheries and farms
- Intermediate stakeholders, including distributors, retailers, associations, regulatory bodies, and others
- Manufacturers and traders of food & beverage products, dietary supplements, infant formulas, pharmaceuticals, and pet food & feed
- Government organizations, institutes, and research organizations
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Associations and industry bodies:
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Food Processing Suppliers Association (FPSA)
- Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED)
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- International Fish Oil Standards Program (IFOS)
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
Report Objectives
- To determine and project the size of the omega-3 market based on type, source, application, form, manufacturing technology (qualitative), and region, over five years, ranging from 2025 to 2030
- To identify the attractive opportunities in the market by determining the largest and fastest-growing segments across regions
- To provide detailed information about the key factors influencing market growth (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges)
- To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders and provide details of the competitive landscape for market leaders
- To analyze the micromarkets with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the total market
- To identify and profile the key players in the market
- To understand the competitive landscape and identify the major growth strategies adopted by players across the key regions
Available Customizations
With the given market data, MarketsandMarkets offers customizations according to company-specific scientific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:
Product Analysis
- Product matrix, which gives a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of each company.
Geographic Analysis as per Feasibility
With the given market data, MarketsandMarkets offers customizations according to company-specific scientific needs.
- Further breakdown of the Rest of Europe omega-3 market into key countries
- Further breakdown of the Rest of Asia Pacific omega-3 market into key countries
- Further breakdown of the Rest of South America omega-3 market into key countries
Company Information
- Detailed analyses and profiling of additional market players (up to five)
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Nelson
Nov, 2020
Our company requires an Omega-3 market forecast till 2026, along with other global market metrics..
User
Apr, 2022
I would like to understand more about the potential opportunities for entering the omega-3 market. Is it included in the report?.
User
Apr, 2022
I am working on omega-3 market and would require data related to its application in infant foods and pet food supplements..