Canadian ingredients company, Ocean Nutrition, has received GRAS status for its omega-3 powder fish oil product. The powder can be cooked in food, such as bread, or mixed into liquids like milk, and has no change in the taste or smell of the food product.

Before awarding the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe), the FDA carried out a strict evaluation of the two main components of omega-3 fish oil Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).

Clinical trials and epidemiological studies have shown increasing dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, in the form of fish or of fish oil supplements, can have a profound effect on the heart and mind. Blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are found to be inversely related to the risk of sudden death.

Studies presented at the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions last year stated taking supplements of omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant cardioprotective benefit both for patients at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and in healthy subjects.

Source: GRAS approval for omega-3 fish oil