FrieslandCampina Ingredients Unveils Alga-Based Omega-3 Powder for Vegan Dairy & More – vegconomist

The ingredients arm of the Dutch dairy cooperative FrieslandCampina, announces the launch of Biotis DHA Flex Powder, a range of microencapsulated alga-based ingredients, which includes one product specifically design for vegan dairy and other plant-based products.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients, which specializes in microencapsulation technology, says its new algae-based products will help brands create high-quality food, drinks, and supplements that provide the multiple health benefits of omega-3 while meeting the dietary preferences and expectations of consumers.

According to the company, 53% of Europeans and 63% of Americans acknowledge the importance of omega-3s for brain, eye, and cardiovascular health. Despite this awareness, global DHA intake remains low due the challenge in finding tasty vegan or vegetarian products.

Vicky Davies, Global Marketing Director at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, comments: “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.”

Vital nutrients in daily routine

The range includes Biotis DHA FlexP 15, which delivers a consistent 15% DHA load for vegan formulations, and a vegetarian option based on dairy proteins, Biotis DHA FlexP 20, which provides 20% DHA.

The company explains that the algal DHA oil is encapsulated in a powder matrix with a high level of vitamin C (at least 4g per 100g). This innovative process protects against oxidation and eliminates unwanted ‘fishy’ tastes or smells. 

Additionally, the “versatile” powders allow easy mixing in cold water and with a wide range of other compounds — proteins, carbohydrates,  the pro, pre, syn, and post-biotics, vitamins, and minerals — to create effective and great-tasting plant-based dairy and other products from beverages to snacks that meet consumer expectations.

Auke Zeilstra, Managing Director, North America at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, adds: “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.”

Other plant-based ingredients

FrieslandCampina in collaboration with AGT Foods has developed two protein products, Plantaris Pea Isolate 85 and Plantaris Faba Isolate 90 A,  for plant-based foods. FrieslandCampina has also partnered with alt-dairy producer De Nieuwe Melkboer to develop a local supply chain for milk alternatives.

“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,” Zeilstra adds.