Oils sourced from algae trending

The Archer Daniels Midland Co. recently introduced Onavita DHA algal oil. Onavita DHA algal oil is the newest addition to ADM’s omega-3 product line, which also includes Onavita ALA from non-G.M.O. flaxseed oil.

“This latest expansion of our natural health and nutrition portfolio is another exciting measure in our continued commitment to provide product developers the solutions they need to create better-for-you consumer-preferred products,” said Mike Zora, general manager of nutrition and health for ADM. “When customers combine the Onavita product line with the benefits of ADM’s reliable supply chain and our unrivaled portfolio of ingredients and flavor and color systems, we can help them bring new, innovative products to market quickly to meet the growing demand from health-conscious consumers.”

The company said the Onavita DHA algal oil may be used in a variety of fortified food products and provides vegan and allergen-free labeling options for product developers. Applications range from toddler nutrition, beverages and dairy products, according to the company.

TerraVia Holdings, Inc., San Francisco, said it has received a Generally Recognized As Safe no questions letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its algae butter. The ingredient is a palm-free, non-hydrogenated, vegan solution for bakery, spreads and confectionery applications, according to the company.

“The food industry has been searching for a replacement for palm and hydrogenated vegetable oils that maintains quality, taste and functionality and also meets their rigorous criteria for sustainable sourcing,” said Mark Brooks, senior vice-president of TerraVia. “We believe algae butter is a game changer for the structuring fats industry in terms of sustainability and nutrition.”

The company will begin commercialization of the ingredient through its joint venture partnership with Bunge North America.

“We are excited to be offering this innovative solution as an additional choice to our food service and food processor customers in the U.S.,” said Mark Stavro, senior director of marketing, Bunge North America. “The potential of the product to meet so many on trend demands has been met with strong levels of interest from a number of our food customers.”