Nuseed introduced a canola-based omega-3 ingredient, Nutriterra, which the company says is the first plant-based source of total omega-3 nutrition, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
"Historically, DHA and EPA have only been available in marine sources, including fish and algae. As consumer interest in taking omega-3 supplements for the brain, eye, and cardiovascular benefits has increased, it has become unsustainable to source the vital nutrient from the world’s oceans — with 35% of wild fish stocks already overfished," the company said.
“Eight out of 10 people don’t get enough omega-3s, and more accessible and sustainable sources are needed to meet human health demand and consumer expectations while protecting our oceans for future generations,” said Justin White, Nutriterra global nutrition lead. “Nuseed Omega-3 Canola, the source plant for Nutriterra, could double the global supply of DHA on less than 5% of current acreage producing the crop.”
Nutriterra is a single source of seven long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, including DHA, EPA, and ALA, and is developed through a process that transfers the omega-3-producing capabilities of microalgae into canola. The ingredient is available in oil and powder formats and can be incorporated into supplement, food, and beverage applications, allowing for substantial on-pack claims, the company states.