Fish oil is one of the most established and extensively studied raw materials in the nutraceutical sector. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), it is widely used in formulations aimed at supporting cardiovascular health, as well as cognitive and visual functions.

Despite its high functional value, the use of fish oil in nutraceutical formulations presents several technological challenges that limit its versatility, particularly in solid dosage forms. Its lipid nature, combined with high oxidation sensitivity and a characteristic aftertaste, often makes it difficult to develop stable, palatable, and easily processable products.

In this context, FlowActives® technology developed by IPS represents an advanced solution to transform fish oil into a more stable, manageable, and formulation-friendly ingredient.

Key challenges of fish oil in formulations

Fish oil is particularly sensitive to environmental factors and presents physical characteristics that complicate its direct use. The main issues include:

• high susceptibility to oxidation, leading to degradation of omega-3 fatty acids over time
• persistent odor and aftertaste, which can negatively affect product acceptability
• liquid and adhesive consistency, difficult to handle in industrial processes
• limited compatibility with solid ingredients in complex blends

These aspects can compromise both the perceived quality and the stability of the final product, as well as complicate manufacturing operations.

The contribution of FlowActives® microencapsulation

Thanks to FlowActives® technology, IPS can convert fish oil into solid, highly flowable microcapsules through a coacervation microencapsulation process.

The oil is encapsulated within a flexible biopolymeric matrix, which provides both protective and technological benefits, allowing:

• protection of omega-3 fatty acids from oxidation, helping preserve their integrity over time
• stabilization of the lipid phase, making it compatible with solid formulations
• improved ingredient handling, facilitating dosing and blending operations
• preservation of the nutraceutical value of fish oil

The result is a technologically enhanced ingredient that better meets the requirements of modern formulations.

Taste neutralization and improved user experience

One of the most critical aspects in omega-3 supplement formulation is the unpleasant aftertaste typically associated with fish oil.

FlowActives® microencapsulation enables a significant reduction of odor and taste, improving the sensory profile of the ingredient and allowing the development of more acceptable formulations, including innovative formats such as:

• powder blends
• stick packs
• solid dosage forms with improved palatability

Integration with other actives and formulation flexibility

The transformation of fish oil into solid microcapsules opens new formulation possibilities.

FlowActives® microcapsules allow:

• greater compatibility with other functional ingredients, such as fat-soluble vitamins (D3, K2) or botanical extracts
• more uniform distribution within blends
• higher dosing accuracy, thanks to improved flowability
• development of more complex multi-active formulations without compromising stability

This approach significantly expands the application potential of omega-3 in nutraceutical products.

A more advanced approach to Omega-3

Microencapsulation represents a meaningful evolution in the use of omega-3 in nutraceuticals. It is not only about protecting a sensitive ingredient, but about making it fully compatible with industrial processes and advanced formulations.

Through FlowActives® technology, IPS enables manufacturers to improve stability, sensory quality, and formulation flexibility, while preserving the full nutraceutical value of omega-3 fatty acids.

Note: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.