Epax launches very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid product to support healthy aging

Image courtesy of Epax

Epax (Aalesund, Norway) has announced the launch of what they say is the first commercially available very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (VLC-PUFA), called Epax Evolve 05. According to the company’s press release, this particular family of omega-3 fatty acids may support healthy aging, with preclinical studies showing that supplementation was associated with improved sight, and that depletion may lead to reduced bone mineral density and muscle strength.

Using patented methods of concentrating VLC-PUFAs from fish oil, Epax Evolve 05 contains 10 times the amount of VLC-PUFAs as crude fish oil, and is part of the company’s NovusLipid range that features up-and-coming marine ingredients. The company also reports that the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, on behalf of the European Food Safety Authority, has concluded that the ingredient is not a novel food. This means it can be marketed in the European Union. In the U.S., Epax Evolve 05 is self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe), based on a conclusion from an independent expert panels that reviewed genotoxicity and repeat dose toxicology studies.

“VLC-PUFAs offer enormous potential in areas like vision and healthy aging,” said Bjørn Refsum, CEO of Epax, in a press release. “However, research into their benefits was previously hindered by a lack of material containing VLC-fatty acids in significant amounts. We’re proud to have been able to develop a VLC-concentrate that opens the door for further research and brings a new family of valuable fatty acids to the marketplace. The stage is set for a new era for omega-3.”

Epax will be showcasing the new ingredient at Vitafoods Europe (stand 3J58), taking place on May 20-22 in Barcelona, Spain.