The aim for this next-generation canola oil containing EPA/DHA is to enable food and nutritional supplement makers to deliver the potential health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in a wide variety of cost-effective products that will be available by the end of the decade.
Growing consumer awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 is fuelling double-digit growth for omega-3 products. According to a recent report by Prepared Foods, the global market for foods, beverages and supplements incorporating omega-3s was worth nearly $7.5bn in 2010, and is predicted to grow by 1520% annually through 2015.
Cargill and BASF Plant Science's multi-year development and commercialisation agreement will combine Cargill's food application capabilities and existing commercial relationships with food manufacturers with BASF Plant Science's expertise in genetically enhancing EPA/DHA levels in canola seed oil and deregulating it for use in food products.
BASF Plant Science expects the total investment to amount to more than euro 150M.
Contact: Cargill