Nuseed Nutritional has announced the results of a consultation with the FDA evaluating the safety and nutritional value of its Omega-3 Canola, including using Nutriterra in food markets. The FDA reviewed and had no further questions regarding the ingredient’s safety for human food.

Derived from Omega-3 Canola, Nutriterra Total Omega-3 oil provides seven omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids including DHA, EPA, and ALA. The FDA’s New Plant Variety validation means US food manufacturers can use the ingredient as a plant-based alternative to marine oils for these essential nutrients, the company says.

Progress in Lipids research has suggested fewer than 20% of US consumers are meeting the daily recommended intake of omega-3. Reportedly, taste, tolerability, and dietary preference lead objections to fish oils. Moreover, many consumers prefer functional food to meet their nutritional needs. Nuseed claims its ingredient has a neutral taste, enabling easier formulation. 

Nuseed Nutritional General Manager, Benita Boettner said: “The FDA’s conclusion reinforces the importance of our plant-based innovation and supports our advancement into functional food. By providing a good source of omega-3 nutrition, Nutriterra can attract new consumers and help more people meet their dietary requirements through everyday food and drinks.” 

In addition to human food applications, this consultation concluded that meal from Nuseed’s omega-3 canola is equivalent to conventional canola meal for animal feed uses. Nuseed previously obtained human food and animal feed approvals in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.