Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by species into anchovy, cod liver, menhaden, tuna, sardine, salmon, and others. The anchovy and menhaden species are the most widely used in the production of fish oil omega-3, as these fish are rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are crucial for cardiovascular and cognitive health. These species are preferred due to their high omega-3 content and relatively low cost of extraction, making them economically viable for large-scale production. Sardines and salmon also play a significant role in the market, with salmon oil being recognized for its premium quality and higher concentration of omega-3s, making it highly sought after by consumers for its superior health benefits. Meanwhile, cod liver oil is a traditional source of omega-3 and is especially popular for its added vitamin A and D content. The tuna species, though less commonly used, is still a significant source, particularly for supplements targeting specific health conditions.

The market is further segmented by application, which includes dietary supplements, infant nutrition, animal nutrition, and others. Dietary supplements represent the largest application segment, driven by increasing consumer awareness about the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly in reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and improving cognitive function. The infant nutrition segment has also seen significant growth, as omega-3s, especially DHA, are vital for the development of the brain and eyes in infants. Animal nutrition has emerged as a key application, with fish oil being used in animal feed to enhance the nutritional profile of livestock and pets, particularly in enhancing coat quality and overall health. The others segment includes specialized applications such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, where fish oil is utilized for its anti-inflammatory and skin health benefits.

Finally, the market is segmented by distribution channel, including supermarkets-hypermarkets, departmental stores, pharmacies, B2B, and online sales channels. The supermarkets-hypermarkets channel continues to dominate, as these retail outlets provide a convenient and accessible shopping environment for consumers seeking fish oil omega-3 supplements. Pharmacies are another important distribution channel, as they are often the primary point of sale for health-conscious consumers who seek professional advice before purchasing supplements. The B2B and online sales channels have witnessed notable growth, driven by the increasing trend of online shopping and bulk purchases by businesses such as gyms and health practitioners. Online platforms, particularly e-commerce giants like Amazon and health-focused websites, provide a convenient and often more affordable means of purchasing fish oil omega-3 products, contributing to the channel’s rapid expansion.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by Species, Application, Distribution Channel, and Geography.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market, Segmentation by Species

The Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by Species into Anchovy, Cod Liver, Menhaden, Tuna, Sardine, Salmon, and Others.

The global fish oil omega-3 market is segmented by species, reflecting the diverse sources and characteristics of omega-3 fatty acids essential for human health. Anchovy, known for its high concentration of omega-3s, remains a prominent source in the market, valued for its sustainable fishing practices and nutritional benefits. Sardine oil follows closely, favored for its omega-3 content and versatility in dietary supplements and functional foods.

Cod liver oil, traditionally recognized for its rich vitamin D and omega-3 combination, continues to hold significance in the market, particularly in regions where sunlight exposure is limited. Menhaden oil, derived from a small, oily fish species abundant in North American waters, contributes substantially to the omega-3 supply chain, supporting various health and nutrition applications.

Tuna and salmon oils, sourced from these popular seafood species, are valued for their omega-3 profiles and are increasingly used in dietary supplements and functional foods targeting cardiovascular and cognitive health. Other species, including mackerel, herring, and krill, also play niche roles in the market, offering unique nutritional benefits and applications across different consumer segments.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by Application into Dietary Supplements, Infant Nutrition, Animal Nutrition, and Others.

The global fish oil omega-3 market is segmented by application, catering to diverse consumer needs and nutritional requirements across various sectors. Dietary supplements represent the largest segment, driven by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids. These supplements, available in capsules, soft gels, and liquid forms, are popular among individuals seeking cardiovascular support, cognitive enhancement, and overall wellness maintenance.

Infant nutrition is another key segment, where omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in early childhood development. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) sourced from fish oils are essential for brain development, vision acuity, and immune system support in infants and young children. This segment is supported by growing parental awareness of the importance of nutrition during early stages of life.

Animal nutrition represents a significant market segment, encompassing pet nutrition and livestock feed applications. Omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oils are incorporated into pet foods to support joint health, skin and coat condition, and overall vitality. In aquaculture and livestock farming, omega-3 supplementation enhances growth rates, disease resistance, and the nutritional quality of meat and fish products, meeting consumer demand for healthier protein sources.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Supermarkets-Hypermarkets, Departmental Stores, Pharmacies, B2B, and Online Sales Channel.

The Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market is segmented by distribution channel into supermarkets-hypermarkets, departmental stores, pharmacies, B2B, and online sales channels. The supermarkets-hypermarkets segment remains the largest distribution channel, as these retail outlets provide a convenient and widely accessible platform for consumers to purchase fish oil omega-3 products. With increasing consumer interest in health supplements, supermarkets and hypermarkets offer a variety of brands and product formats (such as capsules, liquids, and soft gels), making them the go-to destination for mass-market sales. This segment benefits from the widespread foot traffic and visibility in high-traffic retail areas, catering to a broad consumer base.

The departmental stores segment is another important channel for the fish oil omega-3 market. These stores often carry a more curated selection of health and wellness products, including premium or specialized omega-3 supplements. Departmental stores cater to consumers looking for a higher-end shopping experience and tend to offer more exclusive or niche fish oil omega-3 products, appealing to a targeted demographic. The availability of in-store health experts or knowledgeable staff can also influence consumers’ purchase decisions, especially for products with specific health claims or benefits.

The pharmacies segment has grown significantly, driven by the increasing consumer reliance on pharmacies for health and wellness products. Pharmacies are trusted points of sale for fish oil omega-3 supplements, with many consumers seeking medical advice on supplements directly from pharmacists. This channel benefits from the rising awareness of omega-3’s health benefits, especially in relation to cardiovascular and cognitive health. Additionally, B2B and online sales channels are gaining traction. B2B sales cater to businesses like gyms, health practitioners, and clinics that supply omega-3 products to end consumers in bulk. The online sales channel has seen substantial growth, particularly as e-commerce continues to boom. Consumers prefer the convenience of online shopping, access to detailed product information, and often more competitive pricing, making it a preferred choice for many fish oil omega-3 buyers. Online platforms like Amazon and health-focused e-commerce sites play a significant role in reaching a global consumer base.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The global fish oil omega-3 market is geographically segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe collectively dominate the market, driven by high consumer awareness of omega-3 health benefits and strong demand for dietary supplements and functional foods. These regions also benefit from established regulatory frameworks ensuring product quality and safety standards.

Asia Pacific is emerging as a significant market for fish oil omega-3, fueled by increasing disposable incomes, rapid urbanization, and growing health consciousness among consumers. Countries like China, Japan, and India are witnessing robust demand for nutritional supplements and fortified foods, driving market growth. Moreover, the region's expanding aquaculture industry contributes to the availability of fish oil sources, supporting local and regional market dynamics.

In the Middle East and Africa, the market for fish oil omega-3 is influenced by shifting dietary preferences towards healthier food options and rising investments in healthcare infrastructure. While the market in these regions is relatively smaller compared to others, increasing awareness of preventive healthcare and nutritional benefits is expected to drive future growth opportunities.

Latin America also presents growth prospects in the fish oil omega-3 market, supported by a rich marine biodiversity and rising consumer awareness of omega-3's role in cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Countries like Brazil and Chile, known for their fishing industries, are key contributors to the regional market, supplying omega-3-rich fish oils for both domestic consumption and export markets.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Health consciousness
• Aging population
• Regulatory support

• Expansion of aquaculture - The expansion of aquaculture has significantly impacted the global fish oil omega-3 market by ensuring a sustainable and reliable source of omega-3 fatty acids. Aquaculture, the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms, has grown rapidly to meet increasing global demand for seafood and omega-3 supplements. Fish species like salmon, trout, and tilapia are commonly raised in aquaculture settings specifically for their omega-3 content in oils extracted from their tissues.

  One of the key advantages of aquaculture is its ability to control the quality and composition of fish oils, ensuring consistent levels of omega-3 fatty acids suitable for dietary supplements and functional foods. This reliability in supply has reduced dependence on wild fish stocks, which face sustainability challenges due to overfishing and environmental concerns.

  Advancements in aquaculture technology and practices, such as improved feed formulations and fish breeding programs, are expected to further enhance the efficiency and sustainability of omega-3 production. These developments will continue to support the expansion of the global fish oil omega-3 market, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids for diverse consumer applications.

Restraints:

• Environmental concerns
• Fluctuating fish oil prices

• Regulatory complexities - Regulatory complexities represent a significant challenge in the global fish oil omega-3 market, impacting product development, marketing, and distribution across various regions. Regulatory frameworks governing the production, labeling, and sale of omega-3 supplements and functional foods vary significantly between countries and regions. These regulations often include requirements for safety, efficacy, and accurate labeling of omega-3 products to ensure consumer protection and health.

  Navigating regulatory requirements can be particularly challenging for manufacturers and suppliers operating in multiple international markets. Diverse regulatory landscapes necessitate thorough understanding and adaptation to local laws and guidelines, adding complexity to product development and market entry strategies. Differences in permissible dosages, permissible health claims, and allowable ingredients further contribute to the regulatory challenges faced by companies in the fish oil omega-3 market.

  Despite these challenges, regulatory frameworks also play a crucial role in ensuring product quality and consumer safety. Compliance with established standards enhances consumer trust and market acceptance, supporting long-term growth and sustainability in the global fish oil omega-3 market. As regulatory bodies continue to evolve their guidelines, industry stakeholders must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing compliance requirements to capitalize on market opportunities and mitigate regulatory risks.

Opportunities:

• Product innovation
• Functional food applications

• Sustainable sourcing - Sustainable sourcing has become increasingly important in the global fish oil omega-3 market, driven by growing consumer awareness of environmental issues and the need for responsible resource management. Sustainable sourcing practices aim to minimize the environmental impact of fish oil extraction while ensuring the long-term viability of fish populations and marine ecosystems. Key elements of sustainable sourcing include responsible fishing practices, adherence to quotas and regulations, and efforts to reduce bycatch and habitat damage.

  One of the primary concerns addressed by sustainable sourcing initiatives is the impact of overfishing on fish stocks. By implementing quotas and fisheries management plans, regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders work to maintain healthy fish populations and prevent depletion of species essential for omega-3 production. These measures help ensure a stable and sustainable supply of fish oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting the continuity of the global fish oil omega-3 market.

  The adoption of sustainable sourcing practices is expected to continue shaping the future of the global fish oil omega-3 market. As consumer preferences for ethically sourced and environmentally friendly products grow, companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their business strategies to enhance market competitiveness and ensure long-term profitability.

Key players in Global Fish Oil Omega-3 Market include:

• DSM Nutritional Products
• Croda International Plc
• Omega Protein Corporation (now part of Cooke Inc.)
• BASF SE
• EPAX AS (A division of Pelagia AS)
• GC Rieber Oils AS
• Orkla Health AS
• Nordic Naturals
• Corbion NV
• Wiley Companies

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis