Roche Vitamins has announced that its omega-3 product, ROPUFA '75', has gained GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) self-affirmation in the United States.
Roche ROPUFA '75' is derived from the oil of cold water fish and contains higher amounts of EPA and DHA, making it a potent source of Omega-3 benefits. The company claims this offers added value for manufacturers as a growing number of informed consumers are checking ingredient labels and seeking optimal Omega-3 health benefits.
Available in both oil and powder forms, ROPUFA '75' can be readily added to soups, spreads, sauces, frozen prepared meals, pasta, milk, drinks, yoghurts and nutrition bars without affecting the taste, according to the manufacturer.
The product is also deodorized and is said to have excellent sensory characteristics and fewer unnecessary calories, making it more attractive to health-minded consumers, claims the company.
Consumption of oily fish has long been linked to cardiovascular health and demand for applications containing Omega-3 PUFAs continues to grow.
Indeed Roche cites statistics from HealthFocus studies showing that consumer awareness of the healthy attributes of PUFAs has risen from 46 per cent to 55 per cent since1999. The studies also show that 40 per cent of consumers would try fortified foods that deliver the health benefits of fish oil, and 39 per cent of shoppers would pay more for Omega-3-fortified products.