Fish-Oil Based Drugs Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The global sales of fish-oil based drugs are estimated to be worth USD 4,800.3 million in 2024 and are anticipated to reach a value of USD 8,277.7 million by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 6.2% over the forecast period between 2024 and 2034. The revenue generated by fish-oil based drugs in 2023 was USD 4,520.1 million.

The demand for fish oil-based drugs is increasing due to awareness of the consumer regarding the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, the advance in product formulations, and an increase in chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and inflammatory disorders.

This class of drugs has also lately gained much popularity because it is scientifically recognized to provide benefits to heart health, joint functions, and cognitive performance. Prevention and treatment of good health is what more people are searching for, and that's one reason for rising demand. This trend is supported by rising evidence for the efficacy of these different modalities in controlling a wide array of health problems and improving overall well-being.

Global Fish-Oil Based Drugs Industry Assessment

Attributes Key Insights
Historical Size, 2023 USD 4,520.1 million
Estimated Size, 2024 USD 4,800.3 million
Projected Size, 2034 USD 8,277.7 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 6.2%

Fish oil based drugs have gained a lot of importance, as it is well documented that these are of help when reducing triglycerides, protecting cardiovascular health, or lowering the degree of inflammation within the joints.

In recent study of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimated that there is a reduction in cardiovascular events by 25% by using supplements containing fish oil among people at high risk. In this, the fact is supported that omega-3 fatty acids have been found playing a very crucial role in the prevention and management of heart diseases.

Apparent cases of life-related diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, apart from an aged population eager to consider measures for the prevention of disease, have driven the rate of growth in demand for fish oil-based dietary supplements. With the rise in health-conscious people and their adoption of better ways of dealing with chronic ailments, the requirement for fish oil increases in order to maintain heart health and reduce inflammation.

A 2023 survey from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimated that about 30% of adults in the USA take fish oil supplements as a part of their daily health routine. This growing adoption is reflective of a wide consumer trend toward natural and preventive health overtures.

The strong scientific evidence of health benefits provided by fish oil, coupled with increased awareness about health and the shift toward preventive care, propels the continuous growth in the market for drugs based on fish oil.

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Key Industry Highlights

Increasing Awareness and Health Benefits Driving Market Growth

The main reason contributing to the growth of fish oil-based pharmaceuticals is the growing awareness of health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids. Key bodies such as the American Heart Association have been instrumental in this phenomenon by stressing how omega-3s reduce the risk of heart disease.

These kinds of endorsements not only raise consumer awareness but also ensure an influx in the use of fish oil supplements. For example, one of the recommendations set by AHA is supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce the levels of triglycerides widely recognized marker of cardiovascular health.

It also enhances substantial growth on account of an increasing variety of products that are launched in the market. Contemporary products encompass several innovations, ranging from classic supplements to fortified foods and even sophisticated formulations. One such study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology this 2023 showed that supplementation with fish oil reduced the level of triglyceride by 20% among respondents. This finding underlines the efficacy of fish oil in managing the lipid profile and hence justifies the continuous demand for omega-3 products.

The market has also been maintained on a very positive growth route due to the development of consumer interest in preventive health and dietary supplement measures. As more and more people turn to diet and supplementation as ways to improve heart health, drugs derived from fish oils will continue to expand marketplace in the future.

Expanding Applications and Innovations Creating New Opportunities

Transformative changes are being considered in the fish oil-based drugs market due to their growing applications and the development of novel methodologies that help to improve human healthcare. Integration of fish oil into various therapeutic areas, such as cardiovascular and cognitive health, is one of the key developments in recent years.

Advanced formulation of fish oil is now being used for the management of chronic diseases such as heart disease, where omega-3 fatty acids are shown to play a major role in both the reduction of inflammation and the lowering of triglyceride levels. A recent case is the 2023 publication from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology that supplementation with daily fish oil resulted in a remarkable 30% reduction of cardiovascular events in high cholesterol patients.

Another fast-growing trend is personalization in the use of fish oil. With the latest genetic testing, companies are increasingly offering fish oil supplements based on personal genetic profiles. This way, it usually provides customers with the proper dosage and formulation of omega-3s, based on specific health needs, making such supplements more effective.

There is also an increasing focus on fish oil's role in maintaining mental health. Recent studies demonstrate that omega-3 fatty acids can promote cognitive function and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The emergence of this new application further accelerates the market development of supplements containing fish oil and confirms their contribution toward general health.

These new applications and developments have been the strong stimuli to the growth of the fish oil-based drugs market and opened more vistas in the field of betterment in human health and welfare.

Challenges in Market Expansion Due to Cost and Sustainability Concerns

Despite such a fabulous growth scenario, the fish oil-based drugs market still faces serious tests about cost and sustainability. The major issue remains that of the high value of high-quality fish oil. High-quality fish oil, noted for its purity and efficiency, is usually very expensive.

It may hence be unaffordable to some customers given its high price level, thereby discouraging market growth. According to a report published by the Global Health Supplement Association, high-end fish oil products have 30-40% premiums compared with regular supplements, which may discourage price-conscious customers from paying more.

In addition to price, there is an increasing concern related to the impact that the manufacture of fish oil has on the environment. The threat of overfishing is severe, from marine ecosystems into this industry that, increasingly, will be expected to adopt more sustainable practices.

Environmental organizations are asking for increased transparency and better management of the fish stocks, with the need to actually stop the depleting of this stock. The Marine Conservation Society explains that over-fishing is still occurring in UK waters since some kinds of fish are taken at unsustainable rates.

This is one of the reasons the bioindustry now looks elsewhere for sources of omega-3 fatty acids, with a greater view towards algae-based supplementation, which proves more environmentally friendly.

While these options give very many hopeful solutions, they also introduce other challenges in terms of their higher production cost and consumer acceptance. In this evolving marketplace, long-term growth and acceptance will depend on how well these concerns can balance cost-effectiveness with sustainability.

2019 to 2023 Global Fish-Oil Based Drugs Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2024 to 2034

The global fish-oil based drugs industry recorded a CAGR of 6.2% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. The growth of the fish-oil based drugs industry was positive as it reached a value of USD 8,277.7 million in 2034 from USD 4,800.3 million in 2024.

The global fish oil-based drugs market showed stable growth between 2019 and 2023, driven by increased awareness among consumers about the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids. In the period under review, there was a significant increase in the adoption of fish oil supplements for cardiovascular health, supported by endorsements from credible health organizations such as the American Heart Association.

For instance, public interest started to grow particularly after one meta-analysis conducted in 2021 proved that supplementation with fish oil was effective in terms of reducing inflammation and supporting general heart health. Greater awareness has resulted in a significant development in the adoption of fish oil-based products, especially in North America and Europe since consumers have grown more interested in preventive health measures.

The demand forecast, for 2024 to 2034, depicts a positive growth path in the fish oil-based drugs market. This can be in light of new, inspiring, and emerging trends plant-based omega-3s are considered major drivers for expansion. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, in 2023, showed that omega-3 supplements lower the symptoms of depression and anxiety, hence probably boosting the market performance.

Moreover, product formulation innovations will further open new paths for market growth. For example, companies like NutraSea are developing omega-3-enhanced snacks and beverages that expand the consumer market beyond traditional supplement users. With increasingly broad-based research supporting the various health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, and with new, more exciting products reaching the market, a steadily increasing demand could be seen for fish oil-based drugs over the coming decade.

Sabyasachi Ghosh
Sabyasachi Ghosh

Principal Consultant

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Market Concentration

The undisputed leaders, the Tier 1 companies, maintain a dominating market share of 70-75% in the global fish oil-based drugs market. Their broad product portfolio, substantial production capacity, and annual revenues crossing USD 100 million keep these firms strong.

Wide geographical reach, strong customer dependency, and rich experience in manufacturing and product innovation are some of the key factors that keep these companies ahead in the market. That is reflected in a wide portfolio of high-grade products and services offered by them-manufactured under stringent legal and industry specifications.

Some major Tier 1 companies in the fish oil-based drugs market include BASF SE, Aker BioMarine, and Croda International PLC. Major companies that have been dominating the market landscape include those at the forefront of advanced technologies, strong supply chains, and global reach.

Mid-sized companies whose annual revenues fall in the range between USD 60 million and USD 120 million have a collective value share of approximately 15-20 % in the global fish oil-based drugs market. The Tier 2 companies are significant ones that operate regionally or in a niche, where they generally have deep domain expertise with a strong presence in local markets.

These companies invest largely in new technologies and believe in good manufacturing practices that strengthen their competitive positions. Key Tier 2 players involved in this market are Solutex, GC Rieber Oil, and Omega Protein Corporation. Firms engaged in this marketplace use their niche product categories and regional strengths to gain or maintain market share or positions.

While on a smaller scale, Tier 3 companies have been of immense importance in the marketplace for fish oil-based drugs, focusing their attention on narrow areas of the product and niche markets. Revenues for these firms are generally below USD 50 million, but the fact that their activities are targeted at specific market segments introduces variety and innovation into the industrial landscape.

The companies in tier 3 include Pharma Marine, Clover Corporation, and Cellana, among others. These firms produce special products to meet the specific needs of consumers, hence they contribute to a greater increase in market growth rate and dynamism. Concentrated strategies by such firms with expertise in their field fill in gaps and help in meeting demand for their particular product category, hence value addition across the sector.

Country-wise Insights

The section below covers the industry analysis for the fish oil-based drugs market for different countries. Market demand analysis on key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and others, is provided. The United States is anticipated to remain at the forefront in North America, with a CAGR of 1.5% through 2034. In Asia Pacific, China is projected to witness a CAGR of 5.8% by 2034.

Countries Value CAGR (2024 to 2034)
The USA 1.5%
Germany 1.6%
France 2.3%
UK 1.8%
China 5.8%
India 6.1%
South Korea 4.7%

Growing Emphasis on Preventive Healthcare and Nutritional Supplements

Germany’s fish-oil based drugs market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 1.6% between 2024 and 2034. The Germany holds highest market share in the European market.

This has ensured stable market growth for fish oil-based drugs in Germany because of its recent focus on preventive health care and nutritional supplements. Accounting for nearly 14% of the European fish oil market as of 2023, Germany has emerged as a major country because of high consumer demand and preference for natural and functional health products. The increasing aging population and awareness regarding cardiovascular diseases have surged the demand for omega-3-based supplements.

A report from the German Nutrition Society shows that a total of over 40% of Germans take omega-3 supplements regularly for heart health. Besides this, strict regulations by the European Food Safety Authority ensure a high quality and safety standard of such products, instilling confidence in fish oil-based products.

Companies like BASF SE and Croda International enjoy a strong presence in the country due to their sound research and development capabilities, catering to the local demand for value-added fish oil formulations.

Market Expansion Fueled by Dominance Driven by High Consumer Awareness and Innovation

The USA market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 1.5% throughout the forecast period. The high prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes, has greatly raised the demand for omega-3 dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals.

A study from the National Center for Health Statistics reported that 20% of American adults used fish oil supplements in 2022-high awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The market is also characterized by product innovation and wide varieties in concentration, from high-concentration omega-3 capsules to fortified foods and beverages.

Major firms, such as Omega Protein Corporation and Stepan Company, drive leadership into the market because of their advanced formulation and large-scale distribution networks. Also, the supportive policies of FDA regulations have allowed market growth by permitting clear labeling and claims for the cardiovascular benefits of fish oil-based products.

Rapid Expansion Due to Increasing Health Consciousness

China is expected to hold a dominating position in the East Asia market of fish-oil based drugs and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% throughout the forecast period.

Increasing disposable incomes, urbanization, and the adoption of Western eating habits have been some of the major drivers for market growth in China. Indeed, omega-3 supplement sales have annually increased by more than 18% from 2019 to 2023 in China, as people are showing a growing interest in heart health and cognitive benefits, according to the China Health Care Association.

Various companies have also been taking advantage of the trend Aker BioMarine and United Laboratories launched products to target pregnant women and children with fish oil supplements, while initiatives by the government to improve public health awareness and nutrition will spur market growth. The inclusion of omega-3 supplements in the latest national guidelines in China speaks volumes for the increasingly recognized health benefits in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

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Category-wise Insights

The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. Based on source, the salmon are expected to account for 32.1% of the global market share in 2024.

Salmon Emerges as the Preferred Choice

Source Salmon
Value Share (2024) 32.1%

Salmon is the leading source type in the fish oil-based drugs market, accounting for 32.10% of the total market share. Salmon is highly preferred because it contains a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, mainly EPA and DHA. Perceived purity and a high nutritional profile further add to the popularity of salmon oil.

Salmon oil is rich in both EPA and DHA, thus often chosen for heart health benefits, especially because its anti-inflammation properties play a very important role in conditions ranging from cardiovascular disease, and arthritis, to cognitive decline. The other reason people might prefer salmon oil more than other fish oils is that the taste and smell of salmon oil are relatively mild.

Major players operating in the market include Aker BioMarine and Pharma Marine, who use salmon as a raw material due to its easy availability and high acceptance among consumers for producing value-added omega-3 supplements and prescription pharmaceuticals.

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is the Leading Omega-3 Form

Form Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
Value Share (2024) 63.2%

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is the most dominant form type in the fish oil-based drugs market, holding a substantial 63.20% market share. DHA is an essential omega-3 fatty acid that is noted, and highly recognized, for its contribution to the normal development of the brain and its functions.

It, therefore, always remains in demand for supplements for cognitive health and prenatal care. The high market share held by DHA can thus be attributed to its wide usage, both in pharmaceuticals and nutritional supplements, aimed at pregnant women, children, and the elderly. Health experts also recommend DHA for its highly studied benefits in vision maintenance, triglyceride reduction, and cardiac functions.

The demand for supplements rich in DHA, therefore, has surged especially in regions like North America and the Asia-Pacific where lifestyle-related diseases are at their peak. With growing demand, companies like BASF SE and Croda International have developed advanced DHA formulations with improved bioavailability, further strengthening the leading position of DHA in this growth market of fish oil-based drugs.

Competitive Landscape

The nature of competition in the fish-oil-based drugs market is highly competitive, with a proper mix of manufacturers/suppliers being vigorously into developing innovative products to meet the changing needs of customers.

Key players are actively into strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions for expansion plans, building product portfolios, and ramping up production capabilities to enter new markets. Growing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids further fuels the competitive intensity that has spurred demand for high-quality, fish oil-based drugs across the world.

Recent Industry Developments in Fish-Oil Based Drugs Market

  • In June 2024, BASF SE announced a strategic partnership with a leading nutraceutical company, DSM, to co-develop and market a new range of high-purity omega-3 fatty acid supplements. This collaboration aims to leverage BASF’s manufacturing expertise and DSM’s distribution network to expand its presence in the North American and European markets.
  • In April 2024, Aker BioMarine launched a sustainable krill oil product specifically designed for use in pharmaceutical applications. This new product line is expected to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainably sourced omega-3 supplements. The launch aligns with Aker BioMarine’s strategy to focus on sustainability and innovation to capture a larger market share.
  • On May 15, 2024, Croda International PLC acquired Solutex GC, a company specializing in supercritical CO2 extraction technology for omega-3 concentrates. This acquisition will enable Croda to enhance its production capabilities and offer a broader range of high-potency omega-3 products, targeting both the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets.
  • In March 2024, Stepan Company introduced a new series of fish oil-based emulsions that improve the bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids. This innovation is targeted at the functional food and beverage sectors, where consumers are increasingly looking for alternative and convenient delivery methods for omega-3 intake.

Key Players of Fish-Oil Based Drugs Industry

  • Solutex GC
  • Aker Biomarine
  • Croda International PLC
  • Stepan Company
  • Pharma Marine
  • GC Rieber Oil
  • Clover Corporation
  • BASF SE
  • Cellana
  • Omega Protein Corporation
  • United Laboratories

Key Segments of Fish-Oil Based Drugs Industry

By Source:

In terms of source, the industry is divided into mackerel, tuna, herring, salmon, and others.

By Form:

In terms of form, the industry is divided into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

By Indication:

In terms of indication, the industry is segregated into coronary heart disease (CHD), rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, Raynaud's syndrome, dysmenorrhea, and others.

By Distribution Channel:

In terms of distribution channels, the industry is segregated into OTC (supermarkets/, hypermarkets/food stores, drug stores & pharmacies, online retailers, and others), prescribed.

By Region:

Key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Middle East and Africa (MEA) have been covered in the report.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the future of the global fish-oil based drugs industry?

The global fish-oil based drugs industry is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.2% between 2024 and 2034.

What was the worth of the global fish-oil based drugs industry in 2023?

The global fish-oil based drugs industry stood at USD 4,520.1 million in 2023.

What will the worth of the global fish-oil based drugs industry by 2034 end?

The global fish-oil based drugs industry is anticipated to reach USD 8,277.7 million by 2034 end.

What is the expected CAGR for China during the forecast period?

China is expected to show a CAGR of 5.8% in the assessment period.

Who are the key manufacturers of the global fish-oil based drugs industry?

The key players operating in the global fish-oil-based drugs industry include Solutex GC, Aker Biomarine, Croda International PLC, Stepan Company, Pharma Marine, GC Rieber Oil, Clover Corporation, BASF SE, Cellana, Omega Protein Corporation, and United Laboratories

Table of Content
  • 1. Executive Summary
  • 2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition
  • 3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments
  • 4. Global Market Demand Analysis and Forecast, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections
  • 5. Pricing Analysis
  • 6. Global Market Analysis and Forecast
    • 6.1. Source Type
    • 6.2. Form Type
    • 6.3. Indication
    • 6.4. Distribution Channel
  • 7. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Source Type
    • 7.1. Mackerel
    • 7.2. Tuna
    • 7.3. Herring
    • 7.4. Salmon
    • 7.5. Others
  • 8. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Form Type
    • 8.1. Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)
    • 8.2. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
  • 9. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Indication
    • 9.1. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)
    • 9.2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • 9.3. Stroke
    • 9.4. Raynaud's Syndrome
    • 9.5. Dysmenorrhea
    • 9.6. Other
  • 10. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Distribution Channel
    • 10.1. OTC
    • 10.2. Prescribed
  • 11. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Region
    • 11.1. North America
    • 11.2. Latin America
    • 11.3. Western Europe
    • 11.4. Eastern Europe
    • 11.5. Asia Pacific
    • 11.6. Japan
    • 11.7. Middle East and Africa
  • 12. North America Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 13. Latin America Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 14. Western Europe Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 15. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 16. Asia Pacific Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 17. Japan Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 18. Middle East and Africa Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 19. Sales Forecast by Source Type, Form Type, Indication, and Distribution Channel for 30 Countries
  • 20. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
  • 21. Company Profile
    • 21.1. Solutex GC
    • 21.2. Aker Biomarine
    • 21.3. Croda International PLC
    • 21.4. Stepan Company
    • 21.5. Pharma Marine
    • 21.6. GC Rieber Oil
    • 21.7. Clover Corporation
    • 21.8. BASF SE
    • 21.9. Cellana
    • 21.10. Omega Protein Corporation

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