Vital Nutrients launches vegan omega 3 supplement with anti-inflammatory properties

05 Aug 2022 --- US-based Vital Nutrients is launching an algal-based vegan fish oil. Targeting immunity, cardiovascular health and cognitive focus, the Ultra Pure Vegan Omega SPM+ combines omega 3 fatty acids with specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs).

“In collaboration with our healthcare practitioners, we identified a critical need in the marketplace for a vegan-friendly SPM solution, as well as smaller omega 3 capsules for increased compliance among the general patient population,” explains Dr. John Troup, chief science and education officer, Vital Nutrients.

“Our new Vegan Omega SPM+ delivers a first of its kind vegan algae omega formulation, in a capsule that is 40% smaller than traditional fish oils for improved patient compliance.” 

Algal-based omega 3 is becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the vegan space. Tackling inflammation
According to the company, the SPMs are specific to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA).

“This is the first and only plant-based combination of omega 3 fatty acids with clinically relevant levels of active SPMs that may facilitate resolution of inflammatory processes more effectively and up to five times more than omega 3s can alone.” 

The item is free of gluten, dairy, soy, peanut, tree nut, fish and egg, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, coatings or binders, Vital Nutrients explains. It is also non-GMO and free of heavy metals, solvents and pesticides, notes the company.

Astaxanthin to preserve delicate properties
The supplement contains 390 mg of DHA to support healthy immune system responses and cardiovascular health maintenance. According to the company, it also supports central nervous system function and healthy cognitive performance. 

Additionally, it contains 75 mg of DPA, described as being structurally similar to the DHA and EPA. Its inclusion “provides a full-spectrum omega profile, enhanced support for healthy platelet activity, lipid metabolism and cardiovascular system health.” It can also be retro-converted to DHA and EPA, Vital Nutrients notes.

Beyond the 0.1% DHA/DPA-derived SMPs, the item has 1mg of astaxanthin. “High antioxidant characteristics help protect the delicate omega 3 oils within each softgel.” 

With new research uncovering more of the immunity- and cognition-boosting effects of omega 3, industry has made leaps to cater to growing plant-based demand. 

Last year, Germany-based Aenova announced it was expanding its vegan soft capsule portfolio by adding chewable omega 3 variants. These are based on its existing Aenova VegaGels and are filled with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) fatty acids from microalgae.

DSM previously told NutritionInsight that 62% of consumers prefer a plant-based source of omega 3, driven by environmentally conscious choices. 

Edited by Andria Kades