OMEGA-3 is increasingly acknowledged worldwide for its health benefits. Scientific research supports the benefits to cardiovascular and cognitive health, while other studies highlight advantages for the nervous system, vision, among others.
In 2023, the omega-3 supplements market in Asia Pacific reached a value
of USD 637.28 million. It is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 9.70% during the
period from 2024 to 2030, to reach USD 1,218.45 million by 2030, according to a
report from Blueweave Consulting.
Among
the companies that supply omega-3 ingredients to the APAC, Epax Norway AS stands at the forefront of innovation, drawing
on its extensive heritage in fish oil production. The Norwegian company offers premium omega-3 concentrates, customizable
into compact, user-friendly capsules to meet individual health needs and
preferences.
Reaffirming its commitment to customers in Southeast Asia, the company took part in Vitafoods Asia 2024, which was held from September 18-20 in Bangkok. During this event, the FoodPacific Manufacturing Journal interviewed Epax Senior Sales Manager, Haakon Brokke. With over 20 years of experience in the omega-3 industry and strong background in business development, Mr. Brokke collaborates with distribution partners and clients across Asia Pacific to ensure the reliable supply of premium EPAX Omega-3 ingredients.
Haakon Brokke, Epax Senior Sales Manager
Are there specific trends in the consumption of Omega-3 supplements across Southeast Asia?
Yes,
there is a clear trend towards replacing non-concentrated oils with
concentrated ones for greater consumer convenience. Additionally, consumers are
increasingly seeking higher concentrations. Some companies are upgrading from
natural fish oil to medium concentrates, while medium concentrates are moving
towards very high concentrations. For instance, our best-selling products from
ten years ago were not the same current best-selling products, as the markets
demand for higher concentrations. We continuously develop new products and
focus on meeting these evolving preferences.
What
factors drive the demand Omega-3 in this region?
In
Southeast Asia, the market for highly concentrated Omega-3 supplements is still
relatively young. The primary driver of demand is increasing consumer
awareness, supported by extensive scientific research demonstrating the
benefits of Omega-3.
As
Asian lifestyles adopt more Western dietary patterns, the intake of Omega-6
fatty acids from fast food and processed diets has risen. Omega-3 fatty acids
are essential for combating inflammation and maintaining a healthy balance
between Omega-6 and Omega-3 in the body. This growing awareness presents
significant potential for market expansion, especially compared to more mature
markets like Korea.
How does Epax tailor its Omega-3 products for the Asian market?
At
Epax, we produce a diverse range of Omega-3 concentrates with varying EPA/DHA
ratios and concentrations to address different health conditions. While our
products serve the global market, we offer specific formulations that cater to
the unique needs of different regions. In Asia, particularly Southeast Asia,
there is a high demand for our premium Omega-3D products. Scientific studies
have demonstrated that the Omega-3D form effectively reduces triglycerides and
offers superior absorption.
The
most popular products in Southeast Asia are those with high concentrations.
Over the past decade, consumer preference has shifted towards higher concentrations,
preferring to take smaller capsules instead of the big ones as it’s easy to
take. Typically, natural fish oil contains about 25% EPA/DHA, whereas our
concentrates reach 50-80%. This concentration enables consumers to reduce their
intake volume and easily combine Omega-3 with other ingredients.
Click here to read the entire interview
This article is also published in FoodPacific Manufacturing Journal November 2024
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