GRAS approval for omega-3 fish oil
status for its omega-3 powder fish oil product, used in supplements
beneficial to the heart. The award opens up opportunities for the
ingredient's inclusion in more food and beverage applications and
paves the way for further sales growth in this burgeoning market.
Before awarding the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe), the FDA carried out a strict evaluation of the two main components of omega-3 fish oil - Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). FDA scientists assessed dietary exposure, the source of the substance, specifications, contaminant levels and information from recent published toxicological and human studies before granting the GRAS status.
Robert Orr, President of Ocean Nutrition Canada, said: "Our omega-3 powder food ingredient is a solution for Americans seeking to achieve the daily recommended requirements of up to 650 mg per day of EPA and DHA; currently the average daily consumption of Americans is only 71 mg per day."
Clinical trials and epidemiological studies have shown increasing dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, in the form of fish or of fish oil supplements, can have a profound effect on the heart and mind. Blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are found to be inversely related to the risk of sudden death.
Ian Lucas, vice president of marketing at Ocean Nutrition, said: "The powder can be cooked in food, such as bread, or mixed into liquids like milk, and has no change in the taste or smell of the food product."
Studies presented at the American Heart Association's scientific sessions last year stated taking supplements of omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant cardioprotective benefit both for patients at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and in healthy subjects.
