Ahiflower, an omega-3/6/9 oil sourced from Buglossoides arvensis seeds by Natures Crops, has now been featured in over 100 human and animal supplement launches, primarily in North America, Europe, and the U.K., after first achieving regulatory approvals for these respective markets from 2015-2017.

In that time, the marine omega-3 EPA and DHA industry has been impacted by supply chain challenges rooted in rising ocean temperatures, lower omega-3 content in forage fish, and higher global demand for omega-3 feedstocks in aquaculture. This is anticipated to lead to major cost challenges for marine EPA/DHA oils, warranting exploration of plant-based options. Ahiflower was recently recognized in a review by Ella Baker, PhD, as a sustainable alternative to fish-based sources of EPA and DHA, the company noted. In an animal study, the oil appeared to replace DHA in key tissues like the brain and liver.

Several companies like Clean Machine, Greens First, Wiley’s Finest, Nouri, Bold Botanica, Bond, JimmyJoy, Purina, Wagwell, Regenerative Omegas, Pavo, and Zinzino have launched plant-based products featuring Ahiflower oil’s unique blend of fatty acids, which include SDA, ALA, and GLA. Some combine Ahiflower with algae-based DHA for a broad-spectrum blend of fatty acids, leveraging research which provides evidence that Ahiflower can increase endogenous production of EPA. More recent launches in 2024 from brands like Olly, MegaFood, and Purina will further broaden consumer awareness, the company reported.

Ahiflower has recently been approved by regulatory bodies in Australia, Brazil, Turkey, Japan, and Malaysia, thanks to efforts from Natures Crops’ distribution partners in the respective regions, including Phytolove, Ayalla, Phytonet, Octroll, and NexusWise.

“With so many climate change and competing aquaculture industry pressrues affecting marine EPA and DHA supply costs and reliability, Natures Crops International’s overseas distribution partners are helping consumer-facing brand partners future-proof their omega-3 supply chains with no downsides in omega-3 wellness outcomes,” said Andrew Hebard, CEO.