Marine-based nutraceuticals company Ocean Nutrition Canada Ltd. (ONC) announced this week that it had achieved GRAS (generally recognised as safe) status for its omega-3 concentrated 30:20 EE complex derived from fish oil. "The real future growth in omega-3 fatty acids will be realised through functional food development," said Robert Orr, General Manager, ONC. "We work with partners who are industry leaders in food development, and can offer a unique `first-to-market' position." Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) have been associated with important cardiovascular protective attributes and risk reduction of cardiovascular disease. Research has shown these cardioprotective benefits are attributed to long-chain PUFAs. Fatty fish are naturally rich sources of omega-3 LCPUFAs. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends at least two fish meals per week for the general population, and one fatty fish meal per day (or a fish oil supplement) for those with coronary heart disease. The expert panel stated that a level of 0.6 g per serving of ONC's 30:20 EE complex from fish oil as an ingredient in specified food categories, resulting in a mean intake of 2.1 g per day of EPA and DHA combined, is considered safe for the general population.
