DSM Permanish presents the role of plant-based omega-3 at the Korean Society of Food Science and Technology.

Global nutritional science company dsm-firmenich is accelerating its market strategy by presenting plant-based omega-3 as a key solution for extending healthy lifespan in an aging society.

dsm-firmenich participated in the '2026 Korean Society of Food Science and Technology International Conference and General Meeting' held at Daejeon Convention Center from July 1 to 3. At this event, the company held a session on the theme 'Plant-based Omega-3: Connecting Market Trends, Technological Innovation, and Healthy Lifespan' and shared the latest research trends and industrial insights with industry stakeholders.

Terry Lee, the head who presented, introduced in detail the results of the 'DO-HEALTH' study conducted over three years on 2,157 adults aged 70 and older from five European countries. This study is considered the largest randomized clinical trial in Europe to longitudinally track the effects of omega-3 and vitamin D intake, along with regular exercise, on health indicators in old age. It has received high acclaim from academia for establishing a scientific foundation for nutritional intake to maintain physical function and prevent disease in the elderly.

Following that, specific analyses from academic and industry experts followed. Jin Yuri, adjunct professor at Hanyang University's Department of Food and Nutrition, explained the positive effects of EPA and DHA on muscle health and emphasized the need for an integrated nutritional approach to prevent frailty. Yeon Seong-heum, head of the R&D Center at Chong Kun Dang Health, analyzed that innovations in microalgae raw material extraction technology and soft capsule manufacturing processes are driving the popularization of high-quality omega-3 products.

Plant-based omega-3 is characterized by being extracted through the cultivation of microalgae, unlike the traditional method of fishing, thus having less concern for marine ecosystem destruction. dsm-firmenich is combining this sustainability with technological innovation to respond to the value consumption trend that considers the environment. The company explains that it is free from heavy metal contamination risk and has less fishy smell, giving it an advantage in terms of consumer experience.

Jeong Eun-ji, CEO of dsm-firmenich Korea, noted the rapid aging rate in the Asia-Pacific region and diagnosed ensuring healthy lifespan as an urgent task for the region. CEO Jeong stated, "This academic conference was a place to confirm the scientific evidence and technological progress for healthy lifespan centered on plant-based omega-3," and expressed her intention to focus on disseminating sustainable nutritional solutions in the future.

Business Korea reporter Choi Moon-hee (pr@businesskorea.co.kr)