Global omega-3 deficiencies despite widespread supplementation raises alarm

A new investigation of 590,000 blood samples from international participants flags that the vast majority of people globally remain insufficient in omega-3, despite widespread supplement use. Personalized, test-based nutrition specialist Zinzino led the “largest of its kind to date” study based on its proprietary BalanceTest biometric database. 

BalanceTest is an at-home dried blood spot test claiming to offer reliable readings of omega-3 status and fatty acid balance. Administered via a fingertip sample, it promises “scientific clarity” on health markers like omega-3 index and cell membrane fluidity.

Vitas, an independent, GMP-certified lab in Oslo, Norway, processes the test.

Even among those reporting use of omega-3 supplements, the BalanceTest database reveals participants across diverse regions frequently failed to reach optimal levels and had consistently elevated omega-6:3 ratios.

“This study is a milestone for us,” says Dr. Colin Robertson, chief product officer at Zinzino.

“For the first time, we have published data in a peer-reviewed scientific journal — Lipids in Health and Disease — which has been a collaboration between our in-house research team, our Scientific Advisory Board, and the independent analytical contract lab Vitas Analytical Services.”

She adds: “This is not just a publication; it’s hard evidence that we are shaping global nutrition science with real-world evidence from a global population.”

Supplementation is not a standalone solution

Regional disparities emerged as coastal diets rich in seafood recorded relatively higher omega-3 levels, while inland regions embracing typical Western diets lacked the essential nutrient.

Public health guidelines recommend higher intakes of omega-3, but diets vary enormously by culture and country.Even while supplementation is commonly advocated, Zinzino researchers stress that the actual omega-3 status of individuals and entire populations has been widely unknown due to a lack of objective measurement.

The company stresses that public health guidelines recommend higher intakes of omega-3, but diets vary enormously by culture and country. It introduces BalanceTest as a convenient scientific test for nutrient deficiencies.

“The BalanceTest provides a scientifically validated, standardized, and scalable method to assess omega-3 status and omega-6:3 balance — all from a simple dried blood spot sample,” says Dr. Robinson.

“It delivers precise, reproducible results that allow both individuals and health professionals to track nutritional status and guide targeted, evidence-based interventions.”

The “highly sensitive” tool is offered as an alternative to surveys or population samples based on blood plasma, which require complex lab work that measures people’s health status from their own homes.

“One of our greatest strengths is that the BalanceTest can literally measure the world,” says Dag Pettersen, Zinzino CEO.

Focus on formulation

While the study establishes an essential baseline for global omega-3 status, Zinzino adds that the “next frontier lies in improving supplementation.” The company produces BalanceOil, a blend of 60% high-quality fish oil rich in EPA and DHA and 40% extra virgin olive oil, fortified with polyphenols, natural tocopherols, and vitamin D.

“This design enhances oxidative stability and bioavailability, aiming to support better omega-3 blood levels and balanced fatty acid ratios,” highlights Zinzino.

Research earlier this year from Case Western Reserve University, US, added to the mounting evidence of global omega-3 deficiencies, attributed to environmental factors such as rising ocean temperatures, overfishing, and pollution. The report authors note that 85% of the world’s population does not get enough omega-3s simply via their diets.