FrieslandCampina Ingredients launches Biotis^® DHA Flex Powder range with two algae-based microencapsulated DHA powders

Biotis^® DHA FlexP 15 and Biotis^® DHA FlexP 20 join the company’s brain health portfolio, enabling the creation of multifunctional vegan and vegetarian omega-3 products with superior sensory properties 

We launch 2 new DHA ingredients for the adult nutrition market. Biotis^® DHA FlexP 15 and Biotis^® DHA FlexP 20 are high load, algae-based, microencapsulated DHA powders with superior sensory properties and are suitable for vegan and vegetarian formulations. With over 23 years of expertise in microencapsulation technology, we designed both Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders to help brands create best-in-class food, drinks and supplements that offer multifunctional health benefits, without compromising on consumers’ experience or dietary preferences.

Omega-3s: turning awareness into action

Consumers are increasingly taking a proactive approach to their long-term health and cognitive well-being is a top priority. Omega-3s – polyunsaturated fatty acids – are arguably the most well-known nutrient for supporting this specific health need – 53% of Europeans and 63% of Americans recognise their role in supporting brain health

FMCG Gurus, Unlocking Cognitive Wellness: 3 key things you need to know about innovating with Omega-3s, 2023



. However, despite this recognition, global intake of omega-3s is low

Ken D. Stark, Mary E. Van Elswyk, M. Roberta Higgins, Charli A. Weatherford, Norman Salem, ​
Global survey of the omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in the blood stream of healthy adults, Progress in Lipid Research, Volume 63, 2016, Pages 132-152, ISSN 0163-7827, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2016.05.001. ​



, as consumers struggle to find products containing omega-3s that taste good and fit their vegan or vegetarian diets. For manufacturers, addressing these needs is crucial to bridging the gap between awareness and action.

Introducing Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders

DHA is an omega-3 that provides multifaceted benefits including supporting brain, eye and cardiovascular health, plus recovery from exercise. Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders offer food, drink and supplement producers an algae-derived DHA solution in vegan or vegetarian powder formats. Crafted with precision, the Biotis^® DHA Flex Powder range includes Biotis^® DHA FlexP 15, which delivers a consistent 15% DHA load for vegan formulations, and a vegetarian variant, Biotis^® DHA FlexP 20, that uses dairy proteins in the powder matrix and provides a 20% DHA load.

Using FrieslandCampina Ingredients’ advanced technology, the plant-based DHA oil is encapsulated in a powder matrix with a high level of vitamin C, 4g per 100g, for additional immune health benefits. The process also protects the DHA from oxidation and ensures a superior sensory profile with no ‘fishy’ taste or odour. Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders have been designed with formulation flexibility at their core – the free-flowing powders have excellent mixing and solubility properties, even in cold water. The ingredients can also be easily combined with other nutrients – from proteins and carbohydrates to pre-, syn-, pro- and post-biotics, vitamins and minerals – to support development of multifunctional products that meet consumers’ expectations on efficacy and taste.

Vicky Davies, Global Marketing Director, Performance, Active and Medical Nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients says: “Omega-3s are widely recognised for their health benefits – but global intake is low

Ken D. Stark, Mary E. Van Elswyk, M. Roberta Higgins, Charli A. Weatherford, Norman Salem, ​
Global survey of the omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in the blood stream of healthy adults, Progress in Lipid Research, Volume 63, 2016, Pages 132-152, ISSN 0163-7827, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2016.05.001. ​



. We want to change that. Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders harness the power of our unparalleled microencapsulation expertise to create a unique, best-in-class ingredient that ticks all the boxes – multiple health benefits, neutral taste, suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and formulation versatility.”

Auke Zeilstra, Managing Director, North America at FrieslandCampina Ingredients adds: “The unique encapsulation process we used for Biotis^® DHA Flex Powders includes a high level of vitamin C, offering an additional immune health claim and complementing DHA’s well known support for brain, eye and hearth health. The superior sensory properties also open the door to a wide range of innovative new formats, such as functional breakfast drinks, gummy supplements, and RTD beverages so consumers can seamlessly incorporate these vital nutrients into their daily routines. With many different consumer groups seeking enjoyable omega-3 supplements – including older adults, heavy screen uses, athletes and e-gamers – the application possibilities are near limitless.”