Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Market - Forecasts from 2024 to 2029

The polyunsaturated fatty acids market is projected to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.13% to reach a market valuation of US$18.527 billion by 2029, from US$10.717 billion in 2022.

Polyunsaturated fat, a variant of dietary fat, is classified among the beneficial fats alongside monounsaturated fat. This type of fat is present in both plant and animal sources, including salmon, vegetable oils, and select nuts and seeds. Moderate consumption of polyunsaturated (as well as monounsaturated) fats instead of saturated and trans fats can contribute to overall health. 

Polyunsaturated fats include essential fatty acids known as omega-3 and omega-6 fats. These play a crucial role in supporting brain function and cell growth. Since our bodies do not produce essential fatty acids, obtaining them from food sources is imperative. The industry applications of polyunsaturated fatty acids include food, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and feed applications.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are categorized by type, with distinctions made between Omega-3 and Omega-6. This differentiation reflects the diverse roles these fatty acids play in promoting health. Furthermore, the polyunsaturated fatty acids market is segmented by form, offering diverse options for consumers. These include tablets, liquids, soft gels, and powders, each catering to varied preferences and ease of consumption. This multifaceted nature of polyunsaturated fats makes them useful for their nutritional significance and their diverse applications in different industries.

Market Drivers

Rising awareness in the geriatric population 

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are crucial for maintaining optimal health, particularly in the geriatric population. Among PUFAs, omega-3s, such as DHA, play a vital role in supporting brain health. Research suggests that these fatty acids contribute to preserving cognitive function, lowering the risk of dementia, and potentially improving memory in older adults.

Furthermore, PUFAs, especially omega-3s, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage various health conditions and contribute to overall well-being. The demographic shift towards an aging population is evident, with statistics indicating a notable increase in the elderly population. In 2020, approximately 1 in 6 individuals in the United States were aged 65 and above, in stark contrast to the demographic composition in 1920, where this age group comprised less than 1 in 20 of the population.

This global aging phenomenon in countries like Japan is known for having the world's oldest population. In Japan, more than 1 in 10 individuals are now aged 80 or older, placing the country at the forefront of the ageing demographic wave. 

The evolving age structure underscores the need for solutions that address health concerns associated with aging, leading to an increased demand for supplements such as PUFAs. 

Rising prevalence of chronic diseases

The global incidence of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders, is steadily increasing, demanding dietary supplements to manage these conditions and enhance overall health outcomes. Statistics highlight the severity of this health challenge, with 6 out of 10 adults in the United States affected by at least one chronic disease, and 4 out of 10 having two or more, as reported by the CDC. In 2021, the American Diabetes Association revealed that 38.4 million Americans, constituting 11.6% of the population, were diagnosed with diabetes. Similarly, the World Health Organization notes that in India, a staggering 77 million individuals above the age of 18 are grappling with type 2 diabetes. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for interventions that promote health and combat the rising prevalence of chronic diseases.

In response to this growing health crisis, there is a surging demand for functional foods and beverages enriched with health-promoting ingredients. PUFAs are emerging as a key player in this trend, finding applications in various products such as fortified dairy drinks, spreads, baked goods, and infant formula.

Market Restraints

Price volatility

Polyunsaturated fatty acids, derived from marine sources such as fish oil and select agricultural sources, are susceptible to price fluctuations influenced by climate conditions and other uncertainties within the supply chain. These variations pose challenges for both manufacturers and consumers in producing and purchasing PUFAs. The sensitivity of PUFAs to external factors underscores the need for adaptive strategies within the industry to make them affordable for both manufacturers and consumers.

The polyunsaturated fatty acids market is segmented by type, with omega-3 and omega-6.

Within the PUFA market, segmentation by type primarily comprises two main categories: omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 fatty acids are recognized for their potential to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by effectively lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) while simultaneously elevating good cholesterol (HDL). This has fueled a growing demand for functional foods and beverages enriched with omega-3s. On the other hand, omega-6 is found in a broader spectrum of food sources, rendering them more accessible for incorporation into the daily diet. The versatility of omega-6 fatty acids in various foods enhances their ease of integration. 

North America is anticipated to hold a significant share of the polyunsaturated fatty acids market.

North America will hold a notable position in the PUFA market, by several influential factors contribute to this position. One key factor is the heightened general awareness of the health benefits associated with PUFAs. This increased awareness acts as a driving force, generating a robust demand for PUFA-enriched foods, beverages, and supplements within the region.

A significant contributor to North America's dominance in the PUFA market is its robust economy, characterized by higher disposable incomes compared to many other regions. As of 2021, the United States recorded a final consumption expenditure of 19.26 trillion current US dollars, as reported by the World Bank. This economic strength empowers consumers to allocate more resources toward health and wellness products, including those containing PUFAs. The combination of heightened awareness and a strong economic landscape underscores North America's important role in shaping the PUFA market.

Market developments 

• October 2023 -  Dsm-Firmenich announced the launch of life's®omega o3020, marking a milestone as the first and only single-source algal omega-3 with an EPA/DHA ratio identical to that naturally found in fish oil. Life's®omega o3020 presented a notable ratio of 1.5:1 EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) to DHA (docosahexaenoic acid); this is twice the potency. The launch represented a significant advancement in providing consumers with a potent and sustainable algal omega-3 option, aligning with evolving preferences and industry trends.
• April 2023 - The leading biotech company, Mialgae, successfully launched its omega-3 product, Naturalgae, to the market following the recent expansion of its commercial production site in Scotland. Mialgae pioneered a sustainable approach by recycling co-products from the scotch whisky industry, such as pot ale, to cultivate omega-3-rich microalgae. These microalgae serve as an excellent source for producing nutritious fish feed and pet food ingredients. 
• March 2022 - Polaris, a prominent leader in fatty acids characterized by high concentrations of EPA and DHA, announced a successful fundraising round of €5 million, spearheaded by Seventure partners through its Health for Life capital™ fund. This infusion of capital has positioned the company, which previously operated in Japan, South Korea, and recently the United States, to fortify its international expansion efforts. Additionally, the financial injection will facilitate the expansion of Polaris' sustainable production unit located in Brittany, France.

Company Products

• Ultra Omega 3/6/9™ Softgels -   NaturesPlus offers Ultra Omega 3/6/9™ Softgels, a dietary supplement meticulously formulated to provide optimal ratios of essential unsaturated fatty acids. Crafted from top-quality non-GMO sources, including borage oil, fish oil, and flax oil, this supplement is designed to support overall well-being by promoting heart health, maintaining strong bones, nurturing skin vitality, and supporting cognitive function. 
• MARNYS® Omega - MARNYS® Omega 3+6 Junior is a valuable food supplement harnessing the power of essential vegetable omega oils derived from borage and flaxseed. Borage contributes Omega-6, featuring a minimum gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) content of 20%, while Flaxseed provides Omega-3, with a minimum α-linolenic acid content of 55%. This unique combination plays a crucial role in supporting normal cardiovascular and gastrointestinal functions, as well as contributing to the maintenance of a healthy immune system. The supplement is particularly beneficial during periods of growth and organ maturation in children. 
• Momentous presents Omega-3 -  Momentous offers its Omega-3 supplement, a formulation rich in essential fatty acids sourced from fish oil, specifically EPA and DHA. It is recommended to take 2 soft gels with food daily. Incorporating this supplement as part of your daily routine can contribute to nutritional goals. 

Market Segmentation

By Application

• Food
• Nutraceutical
• Pharmaceutical
• Feed Applications

By Type

• Omega-3 
• Omega-6

By Form  

• Tablet
• Liquid
• Softgel
• Powder

By Geography

• North America
• USA
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Israel
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• Japan
• China
• India
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Others