Polaris touts microalgae-based omega 3 oil as bypassing sensory challenges

15 Jun 2021 --- France-based Polaris is launching Omegavie DHA 800 algae Qualitysilver, an oil derived from vegan omega 3 sources such as the Schizochytrium sp. strain of microalgae.

Omegavie has less than three percent saturated fatty acids. In addition, clinical tests show that this oil is in triglyceride form, which is the natural form of omega 3, making it highly bioavailable.

Polaris is one of the first companies to offer a high-potency algae oil that includes 800 mg per gram of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

“During the past few years, Polaris has chosen to focus on the source of tomorrow’s omega 3: microalgae. The increasing demand for omega 3 by the world’s population will be a major challenge over the next two decades,” says Louis-Marie Martin, vice president of sales and marketing at the company.Derived from Schizochytrium sp. microalgae, Omegavie algae oils represent a sustainable alternative to fish oils.

“Polaris has always been committed to the use of fisheries’ co-products and raw materials from sustainable fisheries, but today we need to go further. This is the reason why we have focused our strategic development on microalgae,” he adds.

Plant-based NPD
Omegavie DHA 800 algae Qualitysilver is made from sustainable microalgae sources, which are known for their concentration of high-quality elements such as vitamins, proteins, pigments and enzymes.

However, they are best known for providing polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) derived from plant-based and sustainable sources.

The animal-free origin also taps into growing demand for plant-based products, as illustrated by Innova Market Insights’ 2021 trend, “Plant-Forward.” It highlights that mainstream appeal for “plant-based” drives expansion to more market categories and regions.

Another company active in this space is Lus Health Ingredients, which provides vegan omega 3, 6, and 9 functional supplements to meet keto demands.

Improving sensory appeal
One of the reasons consumers may not take EPA and DHA oils is because they can have a fishy flavor.

Thus, Polaris developed the Sensory product line utilizing patented technology. The completed products boast high organoleptic quality for optimal ingestion with no off-notes.

Sensory assists with incorporating novel functional ingredients like Omegavie algae oils into finished products. These products include functional foods, bars, sports nutrition, instant beverages, baby food and gummies.Omegavie does not contain fish oils, and it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Omegavie is also non-GMO, allergen-free and does not contain toxins. In addition, this product complies with the Novel Food Regulations and is accessible through Polaris’ network of local distributors in all areas.

Addressing sourcing concerns
Additionally, industry notes that an average of 60 percent of fish caught have microplastics in their organs, raising health concerns and economic interest in environmentally sustainable and cost-effective omega 3 fish oil alternatives.

Taking a closer look at the economics of omega 3, the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega 3s (GOED) estimates that the omega business to be worth between US$200 billion and US$250 billion by 2020.

The market for DHA algal oil is expected to increase from US$257 million in 2018 to US$945 million in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 17.7 percent. Thus from sourcing to R&D to regulatory and consumer demands, Omegavie DHA 800 algae oil addresses the challenges in the value chain.

Eliminating impurities
Omega 3 fatty acids are used in a variety of health products, from women’s health to inflammation, healthy aging and vision, to name a few. In addition, these fatty acids have been regarded as an essential component of nutraceuticals.

Oils that are high in unsaturated fats are extremely vulnerable to oxidation. Protection from oxidation is needed to keep their nutritional, flavor, and odor properties, as well as their shelf life.

Omegavie microalgae are grown in a well-regulated environment. It is extracted with water and no solvents utilizing a natural enzymatic technique. It then goes through Polaris’ refining, purification and deodorization process in France, eliminating any residual impurities to the point of being undetectable.

By Nicole Kerr