Tackling Technical Development for Easy Consumption

EPA and DHA are reported to have various health benefits, but obtaining sufficient quantities through regular diet is considered challenging. Therefore, Nissui has been developing delicious beverages and foods that make it easy to consume EPA/DHA consistently. However, fish oil has distinctive tastes and aromas and is prone to oxidative deterioration, making it difficult to balance high concentrations with palatability. Despite numerous attempts, achieving this balance had proven elusive. Consequently, even product designs that were confidently developed in the past were reexamined, questioning conventional approaches to establish new technologies.

Figure 1. Examples of commercialized EPA/DHA-rich beverages

Research Approach

Food ingredients such as proteins and lipids play crucial roles in the palatability of EPA/DHA-containing beverages and foods. However, these ingredients can destabilize the emulsified state of EPA/DHA. Furthermore, this destabilization can lead to increased oxidation and a stronger perception of fish aromas. To achieve and maintain high-quality beverages and foods containing high concentrations of EPA/DHA while preserving taste, we focused on improving three key technologies: emulsion stabilization technology for beverages and foods containing food ingredients, masking technology for fish oil's distinctive aroma, and antioxidation technology.

Figure 2. Progress of research results in masking and antioxidation technologies

We conducted comprehensive evaluations combining assessments of emulsion state, oxidation status, and sensory testing to determine which ingredients were most effective for EPA/DHA in its characteristic emulsified state, and whether these effects led to quality improvements in the final product. This resulted in the development of technology that achieves both palatability and quality stability.

Figure 3. Proprietary refining technology that eliminates distinctive fish odors

Research Results

This technology has enabled the development of products like "EPA Habit", which provide the health benefits of EPA/DHA through enjoyable beverages and foods rather than health-focused supplements. We are establishing fundamental technologies that can potentially expand into various beverages and foods. Amid declining fish consumption, we aim to support balanced diets and healthier futures by making it easy to incorporate fish-derived EPA/DHA into daily life.