Fermentalg launches high-EPA algal omega-3, challenging fish oil dominance
Fermentalg's new Omega Origins algal oil offers 40% EPA without chemical concentration, providing a plant-based, high-potency alternative to fish oil for sports nutrition and longevity markets.
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London, United Kingdom — 05 May 2026
Fermentalg has launched Omega Origins, a microalgae-derived omega-3 oil featuring a high eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) content engineered for the sports nutrition and healthy ageing sectors. Leveraging a patented fermentation process with their proprietary Schizochytrium limacinum FCC-3204 microalgae strain, the new oil contains 40% EPA and 20% DHA. This concentration level historically required chemical or physical enrichment in other algal oils, providing a significant manufacturing advantage, according to Alexia Renard, Fermentalg's Product Marketing Manager of Functional Lipids.
The innovation addresses the current limited options for high-EPA algal oils, which traditionally offer lower EPA content compared to fish oil. Omega Origins is positioned as the highest naturally concentrated algal omega-3 oil available, offering a potent, plant-based alternative. Its high concentration allows for smaller capsule sizes, enhancing consumer convenience and potentially enabling greater formulation flexibility for multi-ingredient supplements. The oil is also versatile, formulated for integration into softgels, gummies, powders, emulsions, and liquids.
While most Schizochytrium-derived algal oils are naturally rich in DHA, Fermentalg specifically adjusted their fermentation process to boost EPA levels while maintaining high overall omega-3 content. This involved developing a patent-pending process to rebalance the natural omega-3 profile of the microalgae, enhancing EPA content within the triglycerides. The solvent-free extraction process yields crude oil with consistently high EPA and DHA levels, similar to DHA-rich fish oils.
The primary markets for Omega Origins are sports nutrition and longevity, driven by increasing consumer demand for preventive health and performance optimisation, Renard noted. EPA's established benefits in cardiovascular health, alongside emerging evidence supporting endurance and recovery, make high-EPA solutions particularly attractive for active and ageing demographics. Omega Origins is available in four EPA/DHA ratios, with the flagship 2:1 ratio specifically targeting sports nutrition. All ratios support EFSA-approved health claims related to cardiovascular, cognitive, and visual health.
What this means for United Kingdom
UK supplement brand owners gain immediate access to a high-potency, plant-based EPA source, enabling formulation of premium vegan omega-3 products without chemical concentration. This innovation directly addresses growing consumer demand for sustainable and plant-based options, potentially capturing market share from fish oil alternatives. Brands can leverage smaller dose formats (e.g., smaller capsules) for improved consumer compliance and lower packaging costs. The EFSA-approved health claims offer a direct pathway for product messaging within strict UK advertising standards. Procurement teams should evaluate price competitiveness against current fish oil suppliers, particularly if current fish oil prices continue to fluctuate.
Beyond performance, Fermentalg emphasises a 'One Health' approach, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and holistic well-being. This aligns with evolving consumer and regulatory pressures for environmentally responsible sourcing throughout the supply chain.
This trend is being actively addressed by UK manufacturing partners including Supplement Factory.