Marine Omega-3 Market  to Reach USD 15.4 Bn by 2034, at 5.3% CAGR

Aboli More
Aboli More

Updated · Feb 3, 2025

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Introduction

The global Marine Omega-3 market is witnessing significant growth and is expected to reach a market size of USD 15.4 billion by 2034, up from USD 9.2 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2034. Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily derived from marine sources like fish oil, krill oil, and algae, are increasingly recognized for their wide-ranging health benefits, including supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving cognitive function.

The growing awareness of these health benefits, coupled with rising consumer demand for dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages, is driving the market’s expansion. Additionally, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders is fueling the demand for Omega-3 as a preventive and therapeutic solution. However, the market also faces certain challenges, including the high cost of high-quality marine Omega-3 products and the potential environmental impact of overfishing, which could affect long-term supply.

Recent developments have focused on sustainable sourcing and innovations in algae-based Omega-3 production, providing an alternative to traditional fish oil. Furthermore, increasing investments in research to explore the benefits of Omega-3 in areas like brain health, joint inflammation, and skin care are expected to boost market growth. As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, there is also a growing preference for plant-based and algae-derived Omega-3 options. Overall, the Marine Omega-3 market is poised for steady growth as the global demand for health-enhancing nutritional products continues to rise.

Aker Biomarine, a leading player in the Omega-3 market, continues to expand its influence through both technological advancements and sustainability initiatives. In 2024, the company launched a new product line of krill oil supplements, focusing on superior bioavailability and sustainable sourcing. BASF launched a new algae-based Omega-3 solution called Veri Omega, designed to meet the growing demand for plant-based Omega-3 sources. BASF has also partnered with several sustainability-focused organizations to develop algae-derived Omega-3 oils, which provide a sustainable and high-quality alternative to traditional fish oil. BASF’s growth in this sector is supported by an expanding global customer base and a projected market share increase of 5% by 2025.

Key Takeaways

  • The Global Marine Omega-3 Market is expected to be worth around USD 15.4 Billion by 2034, up from USD 9.2 Billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2034.
  • The Marine Omega-3 market shows significant growth in DHA, which constitutes 48.2% of consumption.
  • Liquid forms of Omega-3 dominate, accounting for 45.2% of the overall market share.
  • Supplements and functional foods represent 52.2% of the Marine Omega-3 market’s application segment.
  • Supermarkets and hypermarkets lead the distribution channels, capturing 35.1% of the market share.
  • In 2023, Asia-Pacific dominated the Marine Omega-3 Market with a 45.4% share, USD 3.9 Bn.

Report Scope

Market Value (2024)USD 9.2 Billion
Forecast Revenue (2034)USD 15.4 Billion
CAGR (2025-2034)5.3%
Segments CoveredBy Type (Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), Others), By Form (Liquid, Powder, Softgel, Others), By Application (Supplements and Functional Foods, Pharmaceuticals, Infant Formula, Animal Feed and Pet Food, Others), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Pharmacies and Drug Stores, Online Retailers, Others)
Competitive LandscapeAker Biomarine Antarctic AS, BASF SE, BioProcess Algae, LLC, Cargill, Inc., Croda International Plc, Epax,Nuseed Global, FMC Corporation, GC Reiber Oils, Koninklijke DSM N.V., Lonza, LUHUA BIOMARINE (SHADONG) CO., LTD., Olvea Fish Oils, Omega Protein Corporation, Orkla Health, Pharma Marine AS, Polaris., Royal DSM

Emerging Trends

  • Increased Demand for Sustainable Sourcing: Sustainability has become a major focus in the Marine Omega-3 market. Consumers and regulatory bodies are increasingly emphasizing eco-friendly sourcing of Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly from krill oil and algae. Companies are adopting sustainable fishing practices and investing in algae-based Omega-3 production as an alternative to fish-based sources.
  • Rising Popularity of Plant-Based Omega-3s: With the growing shift towards plant-based diets, demand for algae-derived Omega-3 products has surged. Consumers are seeking alternatives to fish oil, particularly in regions where vegan and vegetarian diets are becoming more popular. Algae-based Omega-3 is seen as a more sustainable and ethical option, offering similar health benefits as traditional fish oil.
  • Increasing Use in Functional Foods and Beverages: Omega-3 is increasingly being incorporated into a wide range of functional foods and beverages, such as smoothies, fortified snacks, and even plant-based milks. This trend is particularly strong in developed markets like North America and Europe, where consumers are looking for easy ways to enhance their nutrition.
  • Focus on Cognitive and Mental Health Benefits: Marine Omega-3s, particularly DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), have gained significant attention for their potential cognitive and mental health benefits. As mental health awareness grows globally, consumers are increasingly turning to Omega-3 supplements for improved brain health, memory, and mood regulation. Research indicates that Omega-3 supplements can reduce depression symptoms by 20-30%, contributing to their rising popularity in mental health markets.
  • Technological Advancements in Omega-3 Extraction: Recent technological innovations in the extraction and purification of Omega-3s are improving the quality and cost-effectiveness of Omega-3 supplements. Companies are investing in advanced extraction techniques such as supercritical CO2 extraction, which enhances the purity and bioavailability of Omega-3s. These advancements are expected to lower production costs and boost the availability of high-quality Omega-3 products, supporting the continued market growth.
  • Increase in Preventive Healthcare Spending: As the global population ages and preventive healthcare becomes a bigger focus, Omega-3 supplements are gaining popularity for their cardiovascular benefits and their role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Use Cases

  • Nutritional Supplements: One of the most well-established use cases for Marine Omega-3 is in dietary supplements. Omega-3 is commonly used to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
  • Functional Foods and Beverages: Omega-3 is increasingly being incorporated into functional foods and beverages, including fortified dairy products, smoothies, snacks, and plant-based beverages. Companies like Nestlé and Danone have launched Omega-3 fortified products such as dairy and plant-based drinks, which target health-conscious consumers seeking easy ways to include essential fatty acids in their diets.
  • Infant and Maternal Nutrition: Marine Omega-3s, especially DHA, are crucial for fetal brain development during pregnancy and early childhood. They are often included in prenatal vitamins and infant formula to support cognitive development.
  • Heart Health and Cardiovascular Support: Marine Omega-3 is widely recognized for its benefits in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Regular Omega-3 consumption is linked to reduced triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and improved overall heart health. According to a study published by the American Heart Association, Omega-3 can reduce triglyceride levels by as much as 30-40%.
  • Mental Health and Cognitive Function: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, have been shown to play a critical role in mental health. They are linked to the reduction of symptoms in depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, Omega-3 supplementation has been shown to reduce depression symptoms by up to 20-30%.
  • Pet Nutrition: Marine Omega-3s are also widely used in pet nutrition, especially for improving the skin and coat condition of dogs and cats. Omega-3 is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly included in pet foods and supplements.

Major Challenges

  • Sustainability and Environmental Concerns: One of the most significant challenges in the Marine Omega-3 market is sustainability. The primary source of Marine Omega-3 is fish oil, which is derived from marine fisheries. Overfishing concerns and the depletion of fish stocks are significant issues, leading to rising costs and the need for more sustainable sourcing methods. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), around 33% of global fish stocks are overexploited, which raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of Omega-3 production from fish sources.
  • Rising Raw Material Costs: The cost of raw materials, such as fish oil, has been steadily rising due to supply shortages and the increasing cost of fishing. This increase in raw material costs puts pressure on producers and affects the pricing of Omega-3 products, making them less affordable for price-sensitive consumers. The price of fish oil increased by 15-20% in 2022 due to supply chain disruptions and increased demand for Omega-3 supplements. This price hike is expected to continue in the short term, especially as demand for Omega-3 in functional foods and supplements grows.
  • Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives: As consumer awareness about sustainability and health grows, there is an increasing shift toward plant-based Omega-3 sources, particularly those derived from algae. Algae-based Omega-3 is seen as a more sustainable and vegetarian-friendly option. This competition from plant-based alternatives is creating pricing and market share pressures for traditional marine Omega-3 suppliers.
  • Regulatory and Quality Control Issues: There is a lack of standardization in the marine omega-3 industry in terms of quality control, sourcing, and labeling. The inconsistency in regulations across different regions can create confusion and pose a barrier to market entry for new players. Ensuring that Omega-3 products are free from toxins, such as heavy metals, and providing accurate labeling of EPA and DHA content is essential but challenging. FDA and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) regulations are continuously evolving, requiring companies to adapt quickly. This can result in delays in product launches and additional costs for compliance, particularly in the U.S. and European markets.
  • Consumer Awareness and Education: Despite the growing popularity of Omega-3 supplements, consumer awareness about the specific health benefits of different Omega-3 forms (EPA, DHA) remains low. Many consumers are still unaware of the varying sources and the differing quality of Omega-3 supplements available in the market. A 2023 survey by Nutrition Business Journal found that only 32% of U.S. consumers are aware of the specific health benefits associated with Omega-3, despite 90% of Americans reporting that they take supplements for health reasons.
  • Market Saturation and Intense Competition: As the Marine Omega-3 market grows, it faces increasing competition from established brands as well as new entrants. Market saturation in certain regions, particularly North America and Europe, has led to price wars, increased marketing costs, and challenges in differentiating products.

Key Players Analysis

  • 3B Pharmachem
  • Cambridge Isotope
  • Degussa Fine Chemicals
  • George Uhe Company
  • Morre-Tec Industries
  • Sarepta Therapeutics
  • Sigma-Aldrich
  • Sintofarm S.P.A.
  • Taiyuan RHF
  • Wuhan Yuancheng Gongchuang Technology
  • Yulchon Pharmaceutical
  • Zhangjiagang Aihua Chemical

Recent Developments

In 2024 Aker Biomarine Antarctic AS, the company has continued to expand its market share, with a focus on delivering high-quality omega-3 products that meet growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly sources of omega-3. Aker Biomarine has developed its Superba™ krill oil, a premium source of EPA and DHA, which is widely used in dietary supplements, functional foods, and pet nutrition.

In 2023, BASF reported a 7% year-over-year increase in sales within the omega-3 segment, driven by both its established markets in Europe and North America and growing demand in Asia-Pacific. The company’s revenue in this sector was estimated at USD 1.2 billion in 2023, and it is expected to continue this upward trajectory with a focus on expanding its algae-based omega-3 offerings, which are gaining popularity due to their sustainability benefits.

BioProcess Algae has continued to scale its operations and expand its customer base, especially as the market for plant-based omega-3s accelerates. The global omega-3 market is expected to grow to USD 15.4 billion by 2034, and BioProcess Algae is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend with its focus on sustainability and innovation in algae-based omega-3 oils.

In 2024, Cargill continues to enhance its omega-3 product offerings through its Veramaris® brand, which provides sustainably sourced omega-3 oils made from algae. This product line is gaining traction due to its eco-friendly production methods and the increasing demand for plant-based omega-3 alternatives.

In 2024, Croda is expanding its footprint in the omega-3 market with its innovative, sustainable omega-3 ingredients sourced from fish and algae. The company’s omega-3 portfolio includes premium products for both human nutrition and animal feed applications.

Epax, Nuseed Global is a key player in the Marine Omega-3 sector, with a focus on providing sustainable, high-quality omega-3 oils. Epax, a subsidiary of Nuseed Global, specializes in producing both fish oil and algae-based omega-3 products for human and animal nutrition.

In 2024, FMC continues to strengthen its position by leveraging its expertise in natural ingredients and sustainable practices. The company’s omega-3 business is a part of its health and nutrition segment, which saw revenue growth of 5% in 2023, reaching approximately USD 1.1 billion.

In 2024 GC Reiber Oils, continues to make significant strides in sustainability, with its commitment to sourcing omega-3 oils through responsible fishing practices. GC Reiber Oils reported a steady increase in its omega-3 product range, which saw an expansion of approximately 4.5% year-over-year in 2023.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Marine Omega-3 market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising consumer demand for health-enhancing products, particularly in the areas of cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and inflammation management. Key trends such as the rise in functional foods, increased popularity of algae-based Omega-3 alternatives, and the growing use of Omega-3 in pet food and animal nutrition are contributing to this growth.

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