U.S. supplement customers prefer plant-based omega-3s: Company to share new consumer research at SupplySide West 2021

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Nuseed Nutritional U.S. Inc. (West Sacramento, CA) says a new consumer survey revealed that 64% of U.S. vitamin/mineral/supplement (VMS) consumers prefer a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids. The company will present more details from its survey at the upcoming SupplySide West trade show in October in Las Vegas. The survey was conducted by Qualtrics (U.S.) on more than 1200 current VMS users.

Nuseed Nutritional supplies ingredients based on its Nuseed Omega-3 Canola, which the company calls the world’s first plant-based source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Nuseed Omega-3 Canola was developed in collaboration with Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). Nuseed offers a canola ingredient for human health called Nutriterra Total Omega-3 and one for the aquaculture industry called Aquaterra Advanced Omega-3.

Nuseed Nutritional claims its survey showed that 90% of respondents “recognize advantages of Nutriterra Total Omega-3 over fish or algal oils.” In fact, the company says, there is lots of room to grow the omega-3 category by looking at these newer omega-3 sources and tapping into newer users.

The survey found: 1) ocean health is a top concern for two-thirds of consumers surveyed, 2) only one in four consumers surveyed is aware of non-fish sources of omega-3s, 3) 64% of consumers surveyed prefer a plant-based omega-3 when provided with such an option, and 4) biotechnology is embraced by younger consumers and those who identify as health enthusiasts. The survey focused heavily on Gen Z and Millennial consumers, at 64% of respondents.

“There is a belief that the omega-3 category is mature, yet more than 83% of Americans are deficient in these essential nutrients, indicating room for growth,” said Benita Boettner, global general manager, Nuseed Nutritional, in a press release. “Our research reveals the perspectives that have kept consumers from meeting their daily recommended intake and the motivations that will invigorate this category.”