Emerging research into plant-derived omega-3s, sustainable ingredient supply and new approaches to measuring fatty acid metabolism will be among the topics discussed at the Regenerate Symposium 2026, reflecting several themes shaping current research and product development.
The Sept. 17 event, to be held at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, will bring together researchers, clinicians, ingredient suppliers and brand leaders to explore scientific and commercial strategies for addressing the global omega-3 nutrition gap. Registration information is available here.
While EPA and DHA remain central to omega-3 nutrition, the program broadens the discussion to include complementary omega-3 pathways, regenerative agriculture, clinical nutrition, consumer education and product innovation. Together, the sessions span the research, supply and commercialization challenges facing the category.
Among the scientific presentations, Richard Bazinet, PhD, will discuss the complementary roles of plant- and marine-derived omega-3s, while Patrick Hanaway, MD, will present research examining stearidonic acid (SDA) and emerging methods for measuring whole-body omega-3 metabolism.
Revisiting omega-3 metabolism
Hanaway’s presentation builds on a recent review published in Integrative and Complementary Therapies, which revisits long-held assumptions about plant-derived omega-3s. In the paper, Hanaway writes that “health care practitioners have long been taught” that plant-based alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) converts inefficiently into the longer-chain fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
The review explores whether newer analytical techniques, including compound-specific isotope analysis, may provide a more complete picture of whole-body omega-3 synthesis than conventional blood-based measurements. It also examines evidence surrounding SDA as a complementary omega-3 source and its potential role alongside marine-derived EPA and DHA.
From sustainability to consumer education
Beyond metabolism, the symposium agenda reflects the breadth of issues facing the omega-3 category.
Chris Parrish, PhD, will discuss scalable and sustainable omega-3 production, while Michael Zaugg, MD, PhD, is scheduled to present preclinical research on omega-3 provision in parenteral and enteral nutrition. Additional sessions will examine regenerative agriculture, ingredient innovation and strategies for strengthening future omega-3 supply.
The program also turns to the consumer side of the equation. Amy Symington will address confusion surrounding omega-3 terminology, Wendy Bazilian, DrPH, RDN, will discuss approaches to improving omega-3 intake, and Afif Ghannoum will present consumer research examining opportunities within the omega nutrition market.
TED-style presentations on delivery technologies and product innovation round out the afternoon program before the meeting concludes with a discussion on scaling regenerative solutions for global health.
The Regenerate Symposium 2026 will take place Sept. 17 at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The full agenda, speaker lineup and registration details are available here.
