The inking of the agreement was announced last week, just prior to the Vitafoods trade show in Geneva.
A 2004 report from Frost and Sullivan valued the European omega-3 market at US$194 million (around €160 million). Three-quarters of this was generated by marine oils, widely regarded as the best source of omega-3 oils DHA (docosahexaenioc acid) and EPA (eicosapentaeoic acid).
Although ALA is a less bioavailable form of omega-3 that must be converted into DHA by the body before its can be used, it certainly has a role in the market, especially for people who have issues with fish or who are concerned about mercury levels in fish and fish-derived products.
Frutarom's oil is a particularly good source since it contains more than 50 per cent ALA, and comes from a patented variety of the Salvia plant, the seeds of which themselves contain 15 per cent ALA.
The Salvia seed oil sits comfortably with Frutarom's existing fine ingredients portfolio, which includes a range of aroma chemicals, botanicals and natural extracts.
Indeed, the company said in a statement that the new product "aligns with [its] strategy for complete solutions aiming to combine natural fruits, natural flavour extracts and natural functional ingredients that enhance and support well-being".
Frutarom has indicated that it wants to focus on the functional foods sector, and part of the strategy is leveraging the technology of smaller businesses to create innovative products.
But at the same time, it is a powerhouse of innovation in its own right. At Vitafoods the company also launched EFLA955 Wild Green Oat Neuravena Special Extract, the result of a bioassay-guided development to identify the best variety to support mental health.