Fish Oil Omega-3 Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market Trends and Insights

Increasing Awareness About Cardiovascular Health Benefits

The cardiovascular health narrative for omega-3 fatty acids has gained substantial momentum following recent regulatory endorsements and clinical evidence. The Food and Drug Administration's^{[1]U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “FDA Announces Qualified Health Claims for EPA and DHA,” fda.gov}approval of qualified health claims for Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Decosahexanoic acid (DHA) consumption about reduced risk of hypertension and coronary heart disease represents a pivotal shift in regulatory stance. This paradoxical finding underscores the need for personalized omega-3 recommendations based on individual cardiovascular risk profiles. The American Heart Association's^{[2]American Heart Association, “Prescription Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Triglyceride Management,” heart.org} updated position emphasizes prescription omega-3 medications for triglyceride management, with 4 grams per day achieving a 20-30% reduction in triglyceride levels. The growing sophistication of cardiovascular research is driving demand for high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade omega-3 formulations that can deliver specific therapeutic outcomes rather than general health maintenance.

Rising Demand for Omega-3 In Functional Foods and Beverages

Driven by a consumer shift towards nutrition in everyday foods over standalone supplements, the functional foods sector is increasingly embracing omega-3 fortification. Despite declining birth rates, the Global Organization for Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Decosahexanoic acid (DHA) Omega-3s highlighted a surge in DHA-fortified infant nutrition, underscoring consumers' readiness to pay a premium for omega-3 enhancements. Technological breakthroughs, like microencapsulation and advanced delivery systems, are not only masking omega-3's distinct taste and odor but also facilitating its integration into previously unsuitable products. These advancements have enabled manufacturers to expand their product portfolios, incorporating omega-3 into a wider range of food and beverage categories, including dairy, bakery, and ready-to-eat meals. This growth signals the industry's strategic move towards high-margin, value-added applications, moving away from traditional commodity fish oil sales.

Growth In Dietary Supplement Consumption Worldwide

As disposable incomes rise and health awareness grows, emerging markets are increasingly turning to omega-3 dietary supplements. The Asia-Pacific region, spearheaded by Japan and India, is witnessing the most rapid adoption. Consumers are prioritizing quality, leading to a surge in demand for third-party tested products, with certifications from US Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, and National Sanitation Foundation International standing out as key differentiators. This trend is further supported by increasing consumer education on the health benefits of omega-3, such as improved cardiovascular health, brain function, and reduced inflammation. Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration is tightening its grip on the industry, having set up the Office of Dietary Supplement Programs for better oversight. Manufacturers now face the challenge of navigating intricate premarket safety notification requirements for new dietary ingredients, which adds complexity to product development and market entry strategies.

Expanding Applications in Infant Nutrition and Pharmaceuticals

The infant nutrition sector represents a high-growth application for omega-3 fatty acids, supported by mounting evidence of DHA's critical role in brain development and regulatory approvals for novel sources. European Food Safety and Authority's approval of algal DHA for use in infant formula marks a significant expansion of approved omega-3 sources, providing manufacturers with sustainable alternatives to traditional fish oil. Research demonstrates that maternal DHA supplementation positively impacts childhood growth, body composition, and brain development, with children whose mothers supplemented with DHA showing better lean mass at age five. Food and Drug Administration approval of OMEGAVEN, the first fish oil triglycerides injectable emulsion for pediatric patients with parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis, demonstrates the therapeutic potential of specialized omega-3 formulations. The convergence of pediatric nutrition and pharmaceutical applications is creating premium market segments that command significantly higher margins than traditional dietary supplement applications.

Fluctuating Prices of Fish and Marine Resources Hinders Growth

In 2024, the omega-3 industry grappled with significant challenges stemming from a supply disruption in fish oil. Peru, the world's leading supplier, canceled its first anchovy fishing season due to concerns over juvenile fish. This decision tightened the fish oil supply, driving up costs and extending lead times in the dietary supplement sector. As a result, manufacturers were compelled to either seek alternative sources or reformulate their products. In response, the industry began diversifying its sources, turning to alternatives like salmon, tuna, and algae. Notably, Cargill has taken a proactive step by committing to omega-3 fatty acids derived from algal oil for Norwegian feeds, aiming to lessen the industry's reliance on wild-caught fish. Additionally, the shift toward alternative sources is expected to drive innovation in production methods and supply chain strategies, as companies strive to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of omega-3 fatty acids. This diversification also aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly and ethically sourced products, further shaping the industry's trajectory.

Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Omega-3 Alternatives

Driven by sustainability concerns and technological advances in algal cultivation, the market dynamics are being reshaped by the rise of plant-based omega-3 alternatives. The United States Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has determined that genetically engineered Camelina sativa varieties, developed by Yield10 Bioscience to produce omega-3 fatty acids, are exempt from biotechnology regulations. This paves the way for commercial-scale production aimed at both aquafeed and human nutrition. Major players are increasingly gravitating towards the algal oil market. Notably, DSM-Firmenich has expedited its shift from traditional fish oil to proprietary algal-based omega-3s. Simultaneously, Korea Eundan has swapped its fish-oil-based omega-3 products for microalgal alternatives. The algal oil market is also witnessing increased investments in research and development to enhance production efficiency and product quality, further driving its adoption. Although plant-based omega-3s currently hold a modest market share, their swift growth and backing from regulatory bodies position them as formidable competitors to conventional fish oil, especially among sustainability-minded consumers.

Segment Analysis

By Ingredient Type: DHA Dominance Faces EPA Innovation

In 2024, DHA commands a dominant 63.42% market share, underscoring its pivotal role in brain development and cognitive functions. Meanwhile, EPA is on a rapid ascent, boasting a 10.04% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. This divergence in growth rates is attributed to emerging studies spotlighting EPA's unique anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular advantages, setting it apart from DHA's primary focus on neurological benefits. Notably, the American Heart Association underscores the significance of EPA formulations, advocating for prescription omega-3s in managing triglyceride levels.

As the industry shifts towards specialized applications, DHA-550 oil, derived from Schizochytrium sp. and now Europe Food Safety and Authority-approved, can be incorporated into protein products, capped at 1 gram of DHA per 100 grams. This move aligns with the industry's pivot towards precision nutrition, emphasizing tailored fatty acid profiles for specific health outcomes over generic omega-3 supplementation. Innovations in manufacturing are pushing the boundaries of purity, with KinOmega leading the charge, achieving over 97% purity in fish oil via cutting-edge purification methods, and boasting an impressive portfolio of 31 patents in the fish oil domain.

By Species: Anchovy Leadership Challenged by Salmon Innovation

In 2024, anchovy commands a dominant 27.03% market share, predominantly harvested from Peruvian fisheries. These fisheries, bolstered by quota increases, are pivoting towards more sustainable aquaculture practices. Meanwhile, salmon, despite grappling with notable sustainability hurdles, is the fastest-growing segment, boasting a 9.51% CAGR. Yet, the dynamics of omega-3 derived from salmon are intricate. Farmed Atlantic salmon, once rich in omega-3, now shows a decline in content. 

This drop is attributed to a dietary shift: fish oil, a traditional staple, is being supplanted by plant oils, which notably lack the essential long-chain omega-3s. Cod liver oil enjoys unwavering demand, celebrated for its vitamin A, D, and omega-3 content. In contrast, menhaden, tuna, and sardine species find their niches, catering to specialized applications dictated by their unique fatty acid profiles and regional availability. The industry's shift towards a broader spectrum of marine sources underscores a dual focus: meeting sustainability goals and ensuring resilient supply chains, all in response to the surging global appetite for omega-3 fatty acids.

By Application: Dietary Supplements Lead While Infant Nutrition Accelerates

In 2024, dietary supplements command a 46.66% market share, largely due to consumers' preference for convenient omega-3 consumption methods. This trend underscores a heightened awareness of health benefits and the diverse formats available, from capsules and soft gels to liquid formulations. The infant nutrition segment is poised to grow at a 10.44% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, bolstered by regulatory approvals and research underscoring DHA's pivotal role in infant cognitive and visual development. Innovations in taste masking and microencapsulation have paved the way for omega-3s to be incorporated into a broader range of food and beverage products, broadening market horizons.

The European Food Safety Authority's approval of algal DHA sources has expanded manufacturing options while maintaining sustainable practices. This approval has encouraged manufacturers to develop innovative infant formula products with enhanced nutritional profiles. Omega-3 fatty acids are finding new applications in treating neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy, with clinical studies showing promising results in managing symptoms and improving patient outcomes. These compounds help regulate inflammatory responses and enhance neurotransmitter activity, contributing to better brain function and overall neurological health. The expanding therapeutic applications have attracted increased investment in research and development, leading to more targeted and effective omega-3 formulations.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By End-User: Adult Dominance Shifts Toward Geriatric Growth

In 2024, adults command a dominant 78.44% market share, underscoring widespread recognition of omega-3's health benefits, spanning cardiovascular, cognitive, and inflammatory domains. Meanwhile, the geriatric segment is poised to be the fastest-growing, with a projected CAGR of 6.52% from 2025 to 2030, fueled by an aging population and focused health initiatives. Beyond traditional cardiovascular applications, the adult segment is expanding its reach, now encompassing cognitive support and the burgeoning "beauty from within" trend, highlighting omega-3's role in skin health.

The geriatric segment's upward trajectory is a testament to tailored product innovations addressing age-centric health issues. Omega-3 fatty acids are increasingly recognized for their potential in alleviating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and bolstering cognitive health in older adults. As product formulations evolve to cater to these age-specific demands, regulatory frameworks are also shifting. Compliance metrics reveal a pronounced variance across demographics, with supplements for pregnant women achieving the highest compliance, while products for adults and children lag behind.

Geography Analysis

North America commands a 34.1% market share in 2024, supported by comprehensive regulatory frameworks and increased consumer understanding of omega-3 health benefits. The region maintains consistent growth through premium product development and expanded pharmaceutical uses. The Food and Drug Administration's support of omega-3 health claims, specifically for EPA and DHA in reducing hypertension and coronary heart disease risks, reinforces the region's market position. The region's market dominance is further strengthened by extensive research and development activities, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and strong distribution networks.

The Asia-Pacific region projects a 10.8% CAGR during 2025-2030. This growth stems from increasing disposable incomes, government initiatives promoting omega-3 consumption, and wider adoption of alternative sources. In 2024, KinOmega Biopharm from China achieved fish oil exports worth 168 million RMB, contributing 84% to Sichuan province's total fish oil exports. The region's growth is further driven by rising health consciousness, expanding aquaculture industry, and increasing adoption of omega-3 supplements in dietary regimens. 

Europe, while navigating stringent regulatory waters and championing sustainability, remains a formidable player. With the European Food Safety Authority ^{[3]European Union, "EFSA's updated guidance on novel food applications", www.european-union.europa.eu}at the helm, the region is making strides in global novel food approvals and safety evaluations. The region's regulatory framework will introduce new guidelines for novel food applications in February 2025, focusing on safety requirements and simplified application procedures, according to Food Compliance International. The updated regulations aim to enhance the evaluation process for innovative food products while ensuring consumer safety. Other regions such as South America, and Middle East, and Africa are also expanding their presence in the market by partnering with different companies. For example, Evonik Industries offers fish oil omega-3 ingredients in Brazil through its brand, AvailOm.