SCN BestoCo partners with dsm-firmenich to develop new precision fermentation omega-3 gummies

07 Mar 2024 --- In a newly struck partnership between dsm-firmenich and SCN BestoCo, the companies will merge their gummy development and manufacturing capabilities and ingredient and flavor expertise to develop new omega-3 gummies.

“Omega-3s are one of the world’s most well-recognized supplements, prized for their broad benefits in human health. But despite high omega-3 awareness, innovating new formats within this realm has remained challenging – until now,” says Judy Underwood-Brooks, senior director of North America sales at dsm-firmenich.

“We’re thrilled to embark on this new project with SCN BestCo, with the aim of setting a new standard for gummy-based omega 3 innovation to further unlock the health benefits of these nutrients in novel and appealing ways.”

“Our rich history of collaboration speaks volumes — being one of the first companies to utilize their MEG-3 omega-3 powder in gummy formats back in 2007, we’ve witnessed firsthand the company’s commitment to innovation in the space,” adds Matthew Kemme, chief commercial officer at SCN BestCo.

Omega-3 gummies have been historically difficult to formulate because of the sensitive nature of some omega-3 acids.Algal omega-3 
In their high-load omega-3 gummy development quest, the companies set out to use dsm-firmenich life’s Omega O33-P100 algal-based omega-3 powder. They express their interest in developing an enjoyable product to rival softgel alternatives on the North American market.

“Together, we’re excited to continue breaking new boundaries and deliver the next-generation of omega-3 solutions,” Kemme states. 

However, this poses a challenge as omega-3 gummies have been historically difficult to formulate because of the sensitive nature of some omega-3 acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Their sensitivity presents a hurdle to preserving the gummy sensory qualities. 

For this reason, previously developed omega-3 gummies typically contain less than 100 mg EPA+DHA per two-piece serving.  

The algal-based Omega O33-P100 addresses this issue by protecting the EPA and DHA within a shell system, achieved through the incorporation of dsm-firmenich life’s Omega oil into Powder Loc technology. This could facilitate the development of high-performance gummy applications with doses exceeding 400 mg EPA+DHA per two-piece serving.

The omega-3 supplement life’sOmega is currently the only commercially available supplement that delivers EPA and DHA from a single source, the proprietary precision fermentation of non-GMO algae grown in a controlled, enclosed and inland environment at multiple locations to ensure reliable supply. 

At the start of the year, dsm-firmenich successfully defended its DHA oils patent in the US.

By Milana Nikolova