Major firms explore algae-derived omega-3

"Lots of firms are showing interest, especially bakery and dairy firms and, now, the drinks sector," said chief executive Tom Brudenell-Bruce. "We've had samples requested by five of the largest drinks companies in the world."

Firms were looking at alternatives to fish and plant seed oil because of concerns about their sustainability and high fat content. "You have saturated fat in fish- and plant-derived omega-3 in high levels. [Omega-3 from fish oils] is becoming more expensive as fish stocks get depleted. We are negotiating with food companies around the world for inclusion in a number of products."

Eau Plus can produce 400t of omega-3 VPURE and Omega H2O algae oils annually and aims to increase production to 1,000t.

The fish-derived omega-3 market was moving to higher levels of eicosapentaenoic acid and lower levels of docosahexaenoic acid, seen in cold water fish, said Brudenell-Bruce. That was because warm water fish stocks were shrinking.