04.19.10
A new report from Frost & Sullivan tracks the market trends, growth, dynamics and recent market developments in the North American marine and algae oil omega 3 ingredients market from 2008 to 2013.
This study covers the state of the North American marine and algae oil Omega-3 ingredient market, examining drivers and restraints for growth, pricing, distribution, technology, legislation, demand and geographical trends.
Following from these, market growth for segments are forecasted. In addition, an in-depth analysis of the competitive situation including omega 3 ingredient manufacturer market shares is performed. In addition, it segments the North American market by product source, end application and geographic region for the base year 2008.
The two specific omega 3 fatty acids explored in this research are EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are primarily derived from marine and algae sources, and each of these fatty acids has an important role to play in the promotion of health. Omega 3 ALA, primarily sourced from oilseeds, will be covered in future research.
With respect to its health benefits, diets rich in omega 3 have been scientifically shown to promote heart health.
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In the journal article Fish Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Cardiovascular Disease in the publication circulation, the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids were examined and the study confirmed that the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids reduced the occurrence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
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The increased consumption of omega 3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, has been associated with a decreased risk of sudden death and arrhythmia, decreased blood clots, decreased triglyceride levels, decreased atherosclerotic plaque growth, improved arterial health and lower blood pressure.
- According to the Physician's Health Study, it was reported that the intake of at least one serving of fish per week can decrease the risk of sudden cardiac disease relative to the intake of less than one fish meal per week.
After CVD prevention, one of the most significant benefits associated with omega 3 is its anti-inflammatory properties.
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The presence of inflammation indicates an increased risk of heart disease, because of its role in aggravating several chronic conditions such as atherosclerosis, arthritis, CVD and stroke.
- A clinical study conducted in 2007 by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute found an alarming link between the presence of inflammation and an increased risk of high blood pressure, high blood glucose levels and obesity.
The marine and algae oil omega 3 ingredients market constitutes two product categories based on product source, namely marine-based oils (a generalized term reflecting all sources of fish) and algae oils.
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Being the most widely used form of omega 3 fatty acids in 2008, marine oils are derived from various fish (include cod, tuna, sardines, anchovies, salmon, and krill), excluding algae.
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Omega 3 marine oil represents the largest product category within the North American omega 3 fatty acids market.
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The 18:12 EPA/DHA fish oil is presently in the late-growth phase of its product life cycle. In contrast, fish oil concentrates are in an attractive growth phase and witnessing significant growth.
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Growth in this market was largely driven by the convergence of three major aspects increasing consumer awareness, a sound scientific platform, and increasing technological developments.
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The 18:12 EPA/DHA fish oil and fish oil concentrates are the two main categories of omega-3 marine oils - The North American omega-3 marine oil market is largely driven by 18:12 fish oils; however, in recent times, fish oil concentrates have gained grounds.
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The increase in demand for concentrates can be attributed to the increasing preference for high concentrations in dietary supplements that are positioned for specific health benefits.
- Concentrates are preferred when product space is a constraint, typically when several ingredients are capsulated/tabulated into a single supplement.