marketing trends
12.01.2026
Algae Oil Market Trends: Global Demand, Applications & Future Outlook
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2 min read
In the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition and health-focused innovation, algae oil has emerged as a standout ingredient, reshaping how omega-3s are sourced, consumed, and incorporated into products worldwide. Once a niche solution, algae-derived oils are now at the forefront of global consumer and industry interest, driven by falling prices, a growing product range, and shifting consumer priorities. According to the 2025 Global EPA & DHA Omega-3 Ingredient Market Report, there are three primary factors are reshaping the algae oil market:
These trends are driving growth across several key segments.
Infant formula remains the largest single application, using 48.6% of the global algae oil volume. Its importance continues to grow, with demand rising to an estimated 4.1% annually. However, pricing pressures have softened value growth, up just 1.1% globally in recent periods. Even so, the long-standing reliance on algae-based DHA in infant nutrition underscores its irreplaceable role in early-life health.
Learn more: The Vital Role of DHA in Modern Nutrition
The fortified food and beverage sector accounts for 27.5% of algae oil use globally and grew 3.5% in 2024. Europe has been a major driver, thanks to preventive health initiatives and rising demand for omega-3-fortified foods. Other fast-growing markets include China, Asia-Pacific, Mexico, and South America, regions with high growth potential due to currently low per-capita consumption of fortified products.
In affluent markets like South Korea and the U.S., algae oil concentrates are increasingly used in dietary supplements, meeting consumer demand for plant-based, sustainable omega-3 alternatives.
Meanwhile, a nascent but promising application is emerging in pet nutrition. Algae oils are gaining ground as vegetarian or vegan ingredients for pet foods and supplements. While still small, this market is growing rapidly, with limited supplier competition and significant potential.
Algae oil is positioned as a sustainable alternative that can help stabilize and diversify the omega-3 market. With ongoing innovation, expanding applications, and increasing mainstream awareness, the future of algae oil looks promising.
As demand in the global omega-3 market continues to grow, GOED’s position is that all sources of omega-3s are important parts of the puzzle for supporting public health. We are excited to see Aker’s new Revervia algae oil provide a new option for a vegan omega-3 source.
- Ellen Schutt, Managing Director, GOED
Revervia, Aker BioMarine’s newest omega-3 branded ingredient, stands out on the global stage as a leader in algae-based innovation, offering one of the highest concentrations of DHA available in its natural triglyceride form. DHA is a critical nutrient for brain and eye health, with particular relevance for early life nutrition as well as lifelong cognitive support. As demand for sustainable omega-3 solutions continues to accelerate, Revervia® delivers a strong value proposition through its high-strength DHA profile, clean and allergen-free production process, and microalgae-based origin. A cost-efficient and scalable manufacturing approach supports competitive market positioning, while aligning with evolving consumer preferences and increasing sustainability expectations.
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