GORINCHEM, THE NETHERLANDS — Corbion has introduced an algae-based ingredient to help meet demand for Omega 3 fatty acids in companion animal nutrition without relying on traditional marine-based sources. The microalgae ingredient, AlgaPrime™ DHA P3, is created through precision fermentation and serves as a sustainable alternative to fish oil, according to the company.
The global fish oil market is under pressure, both from a supply-and-demand perspective and an environmental perspective. The cancelation of Peru’s first anchovy season of the year has caused price pressure around the world for the entire fish oil category, and demand has overtaken supply for wild Alaskan salmon oil, which is the primary source for pet supplement products.
According to Euromonitor International, nearly 70% of pet owners across the globe are concerned about nutrition and climate change. As such, ingredient suppliers like Corbion are seeking alternative ways to deliver value-added ingredient solutions while also reducing their environmental impacts.
Source: Corbion“The launch of AlgaPrime™ DHA P3 furthers Corbion’s mission to preserve what matters by offering sustainable ingredients for healthier people, pets and the planet,” said Tim Rutten, vice president at Corbion Algae Ingredients. “We believe this breakthrough ingredient will play an important role in meeting the growing need for better nutrition and more sustainable solutions, while delivering value across the pet industry.”
According to Corbion, AlgaPrime DHA P3 offers the highest DHA level in biomass powder form available on the market today, at 35% DHA. The ingredient matrix includes a natural antioxidant system to stabilize the fermented ingredient, which can be used in dry, wet and injection-molded pet food, treat and supplement applications.
The process for producing AlgaPrime DHA P3 involves growing Omega 3-rich algae from cane sugars in closed fermentation tanks. This process allows Corbion to control stability and palatability, advance sustainability, and even meet claims for vegan products, according to the company.
Read more about product development, ingredients and formulation.
