Global Omega-3 Supplements Market - 2024 - 2031
Global Omega-3 Supplements Market reached US$ 7.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 14.1 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 7.1 % during the forecast period 2024-2031.
The omega-3 supplements market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which support heart health and brain function and reduce inflammation. As health-conscious consumers seek preventive solutions, demand for omega-3s continues to rise, particularly due to the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and the aging population.
The US Food and Drug Administration's recommendation of consuming no more than 5 grams per day of EPA and DHA combined from dietary supplements plays a crucial role in shaping the Omega-3 supplements market. Additionally, the expanding availability of plant-based options, such as algae-derived omega-3s, is meeting the needs of vegan and environmentally-conscious consumers. As the global focus on wellness intensifies, omega-3 supplements are poised to remain vital to preventive health strategies worldwide.
American adults consume 1.98 grams/day of ALA, exceeding the recommended intake, but only 35 mg/day of EPA and 76 mg/day of DHA, well below recommended levels. This significant gap in EPA and DHA intake supports North America's continued dominance in the global omega-3 supplements market, as consumers increasingly turn to supplements to meet these vital nutritional needs.
Dynamics
Increasing Consumer Health Consciousness
The market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by rising consumer awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly for heart health, brain function and inflammation reduction. As more people focus on preventive health and seeking ways to manage their health proactively, omega-3 supplements are becoming a staple, supporting the continued expansion of the market. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular issues and the aging population have further fueled demand.
Supplements consumption is further reflecting a growing trend toward natural health solutions. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, specialty supplements like Omega-3s accounted for 46% of supplement consumption in 2021. The market growth is also linked to the broader increase in dietary supplement use worldwide, which has surged from 25% to 70% over the past 40 years. Populations at higher risk for chronic conditions are particularly driving this trend.
New Innovations
Innovations in omega-3 supplementation are pivotal in driving the growth of the global market. Advances in technology that enhance the bioavailability and absorption of omega-3 fatty acids are meeting the increasing consumer demand for more effective and convenient health solutions. A prime example is Aker BioMarine’s PL+ EPA/DHA formulation, which significantly boosts the absorption of EPA and DHA by 10.5 times compared to traditional fish oil.
The breakthrough formulation, which combines krill phospholipids and fish oil, allows for better digestion and absorption, even without needing a fatty meal. By catering to the growing number of individuals on low-fat diets and offering a more efficient supplement, such innovations are expanding the market's reach. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek scientifically-backed, sustainable and efficient products, innovations like PL+ technology are accelerating market growth.
High Costs and Sustainability Challenges
The high cost of quality Omega-3 products is one of the most significant hindering factors for the global Omega-3 supplements market. Premium Omega-3 supplements, particularly those derived from fish oil, often have higher production costs due to the expensive extraction processes and the need for high-quality, concentrated EPA and DHA. As a result, these products are sold at a premium price, making them less affordable for price-sensitive consumers.
Additionally, the growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced Omega-3s has led to further price increases. Overfishing concerns and environmental sustainability efforts are pushing for better sourcing practices, such as using responsibly farmed fish or plant-based alternatives like algae oil. While these alternatives are often considered more eco-friendly, they can be costlier to produce, further driving up prices.
Segment Analysis
The global Omega-3 supplements market is segmented based on source, form, type, functionality, distribution channel, end-user and region.
High Concentration Of Essential Fatty Acids in Fish Oil
The global Omega-3 supplements market is segmented based on source into fish oil, krill oil, algae oil and others. The fish oil segment dominates the global omega-3 supplements market due to its high concentration of essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA, which are widely recognized for their health benefits, including improving heart health, reducing inflammation and supporting brain function. Fish oil is the most bioavailable and concentrated source of these Omega-3s, making it the preferred choice for consumers.
Extensive research and strong scientific evidence have built consumer trust in its efficacy, ensuring its position as the leading source of Omega-3 supplements. Additionally, fish oil is more cost-effective than alternatives like krill oil and algae oil, making it accessible to a larger consumer base, particularly in developing markets leading to new product launches adding to its dominance.
For instance the launch of NOW’s Omega-3 Gummy Chews in August 2024. These sugar-free gummies provide 750 mg of fish oil with enhanced bioavailability, meeting strict purity and potency standards. Offering an affordable, high-quality health solution, they cater to consumers looking for convenient, effective Omega-3 supplementation. The product’s availability both online and in select stores underscores the demand for accessible fish oil-based supplements.
Geographical Penetration
Increasing Health-Consciousness in North America
North America's dominance in the global omega-3 supplements market is supported by a well-established culture of health-consciousness, where supplements play a key role in daily wellness routines. According to the 2023 CRN Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements, 74% of US adults take dietary supplements, with 55% considered regular users, highlighting Americans' mainstream acceptance of supplements.
The trend reflects a growing awareness of the health benefits of products like omega-3s, which are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation and improve brain function. The increasing reliance on supplements is driven by a preventive healthcare mindset, with many consumers seeking to enhance their overall well-being before health issues arise. Region’s highly developed healthcare infrastructure and pharmaceutical companies continuously developing and promoting Omega-3 supplements.
Competitive Landscape
The major global players in the market include Nordic Naturals Inc, RB Health (US) LLC, Aker BioMarine Human Ingredients AS, dsm-firmenich, NOW Foods, Pharmavite LLC, Carlson Labs, The Coromega Company, NutriGold Inc and Barlean's Organic Oils, LLC.
Sustainability Analysis
The Omega-3 supplements market is growing rapidly, driven by rising demand for health benefits like improved heart health and brain function. However, the environmental impact of sourcing Omega-3, mainly from fish oil, raises concerns about overfishing. To address this, companies are adopting sustainable practices, such as sourcing from certified fisheries or using algae-based alternatives, to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
As consumers increasingly prioritize ethical sourcing and transparency, brands are focusing on fair labor practices and responsible supply chains. Sustainability is also becoming a key competitive advantage, with many consumers willing to pay more for environmentally and socially responsible products. Balancing health benefits with sustainability is becoming crucial for the long-term success of the market.
Key Developments
• In March 2024, Epax launched EPAX Omega 3-9-11, a concentrated oil combining omega-3s, omega-9 and omega-11 fatty acids. Using advanced EQP+ Tech, it targets skin health by improving barrier function and reducing inflammation, while offering broader metabolic benefits.
• In January 2024, Ritual launched Omega-3 DHA + EPA, a vegan supplement with 500 mg of omega-3s in a 2:1 DHA to EPA ratio. Sourced sustainably from microalgae in France, it’s designed for minimal burp-back with a natural citrus flavor. Third-party tested, gluten-free, soy-free and packaged in 100% recycled materials.
Why Purchase the Report?• To visualize the global Omega-3 supplements market segmentation based on source, form, type, functionality, distribution channel, end-user and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous Omega-3 supplements market-level data points with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.
The global omega-3 supplements market report would provide approximately 86 tables, 88 figures and 211 pages.
Target Audience 2024• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies