The Global Omega 3 Supplements Market size is expected to reach $12.91 billion by 2031, rising at a market growth of 8.6% CAGR during the forecast period.
The aging population worldwide has led to an increased focus on maintaining cognitive health, joint mobility, and cardiovascular function—key areas where omega-3 plays a vital role. Thus, the geriatric segment recorded a significant revenue share in the market in 2023. Older adults are more susceptible to conditions such as arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases, and heart-related issues, driving the demand for omega-3 supplements to support healthy aging. Research highlighting the role of DHA and EPA in reducing inflammation, improving memory retention, and preventing cognitive decline has further strengthened market growth in this segment.
Omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), have been extensively studied for their health benefits, particularly cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and inflammation reduction. With increasing scientific studies validating these benefits, consumers are becoming more proactive about incorporating Omega-3 supplements into their daily routines. Thus, increasing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of omega-3 supplements is driving the market's growth.
Additionally, the demand for Omega-3 supplements in maternal and infant health has grown significantly due to their critical role in fatal brain development and overall infant well-being. Pregnant women are increasingly advised to take DHA-rich Omega-3 supplements, as DHA is essential for the neural and cognitive development of the fetus. Hence, increasing demand for omega-3 supplements in infant nutrition and maternal health drives the market's growth.
However, the high cost of Omega-3 supplements is a major barrier to widespread adoption, particularly in middle- and low-income regions. Premium-quality Omega-3 supplements undergo extensive processing, including molecular distillation, to remove impurities such as heavy metals and toxins, leading to higher production costs. Furthermore, alternative sources like krill oil and algae-based Omega-3 are more expensive due to their limited supply and additional extraction processes. Hence, the high cost of omega-3 supplements, limiting consumer adoption, is hindering the growth of the market.
Functionality Outlook
Based on functionality, the market is characterized into cardiovascular health, brain, nervous system & mental health, eye diseases, diabetes, and others. The eye diseases segment held 14% revenue share in the market in 2023. The increasing prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), dry eye syndrome, and other vision-related disorders has fuelled the demand for omega-3 supplements for eye health. DHA is a vital structural component of the retina, and its deficiency has been linked to various eye conditions, driving the need for omega-3 supplementation.
Source Outlook
On the source, the market is classified into fish oil, algae oil, krill oil, and others. The algae oil segment held 15% revenue share in the market in 2023. This growth was primarily driven by the increasing demand for plant-based and sustainable sources of omega-3, particularly among vegetarian and vegan consumers. Algae oil is recognized as a rich and pure source of DHA and EPA, making it an attractive alternative to traditional fish oil-based supplements.
End use Outlook
By end use, the market is divided into adults, geriatric, pregnant women, children, and infants. The pregnant women segment acquired the largest revenue share in the market in 2023. Omega-3, particularly DHA, is essential for fetal brain and eye development, making it a crucial supplement during pregnancy. Expecting mothers are increasingly advised to consume omega-3 supplements to support the neurological and visual development of their babies, as well as to reduce the risk of preterm birth and postpartum depression.
Form Outlook
Based on form, the market is divided into soft gels, capsules, tablets, and others. The soft gels segment witnessed the maximum revenue share in the market in 2023. Soft gels are widely preferred due to their ease of consumption, high bioavailability, and ability to mask the strong fishy taste and odor commonly associated with omega-3 supplements.
Distribution Channel Outlook
By distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets/ hypermarkets/food stores, drug stores & pharmacies, online retailers, prescribed, and others. The online retailers segment held 20% revenue share in the market in 2023. The rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms and the growing preference for digital shopping have significantly contributed to the segment’s growth. Online retailers offer consumers the convenience of purchasing omega-3 supplements from the comfort of their homes, often at competitive prices.
Regional Outlook
Region-wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The Asia Pacific segment witnessed 26% revenue share in the market in 2023. The region’s growth is attributed to the increasing health consciousness among consumers, rapid urbanization, and a rising middle-class population with higher disposable incomes. Countries like China, Japan, India, and Australia are experiencing a surge in demand for omega-3 supplements due to growing awareness of preventive healthcare and nutritional well-being.
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