#Japan #Tokyo #Krill Oil #Sansei Pharmaceutical

Sansei Pharmaceutical's Advancements in Krill Oil Research

Sansei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Fujisan, Shizuoka, presented compelling findings on krill oil at the 34th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Lipid Nutrition Society held in Tokyo in September 2025. Representing the Krill Oil Research Committee, the company unveiled groundbreaking research on the enhanced functionalities and potential applications of krill oil.

Two Key Research Highlights

The presentation emphasized two pivotal research topics:
1. The unique design of sustained absorption using a combination of krill oil and MCT (Medium-Chain Triglycerides).
2. Latest findings from a clinical trial conducted by the University of Glasgow indicating how krill oil helps maintain muscle mass during weight loss.

Both findings are crucial as they explore the question of how to maximize the functional benefits of krill oil, providing new insights for formulation design and product development in the health food sector. Attendees, including stakeholders from the health food industry, showed a heightened interest, recognizing these topics as practical applications that link research and market needs.

Sustained Absorption with Krill Oil and MCT Matrix

In June 2025, Sansei Pharma published results from their independent research into a mix of krill oil and MCT. This study revealed a matricial high-order structure formed when combined, capable of encapsulating lipid-soluble components and gradually releasing them for a prolonged absorption effect. Animal tests indicated that when model ingredients (like sesame) were administered using this blend, the release profile was significantly gentler compared to traditional single-ingredient formulations, thus maintaining a stable concentration in the bloodstream over extended periods.

This approach diverges from the traditional method of merely increasing the quantity of active ingredients by offering a new pathway for sustained efficacy. Particularly for companies dedicated to formulating functional foods and high-value supplements, this sustained absorption design presents an excellent opportunity for differentiation and unique product proposals. This matrix structure technique could also be instrumental in facilitating the absorption of hard-to-absorb nutrients, highlighting the innovative formulation capabilities of Sansei Pharmaceutical.

Muscle Mass Preservation During Weight Loss

The second vital topic revolved around findings from a randomized placebo-controlled trial conducted by the University of Glasgow. This study utilized an Alternate-Day Fasting (ADF) weight-loss protocol with participants consuming 4g of krill oil per day. Those in the krill oil group demonstrated a significant reduction in body weight while maintaining lean mass and grip strength compared to those who did not consume it.

Typically, weight loss is associated with unwanted reductions in muscle mass, which can lead to lowered basal metabolic rates and increased risks of rebound weight gain. The findings suggest that krill oil may dual-functionally improve lipid metabolism while preserving muscle function, thereby serving as a foundation for a product concept centered on healthy weight loss.

Additionally, a separate human trial over six months has shown improvements in knee extension strength and muscle thickness, further indicating krill oil's potential applications in functional supplements aimed at maintaining or enhancing muscle function.

The demand in the diet and body composition market for solutions that enable weight loss while preserving muscle mass remains significant. These insights present new promotional angles for muscle-preserving diet designs and sports nutrition domains, emphasizing krill oil’s role as a next-generation ingredient that enhances wellness value.

Insights from Industry Experts

Kazushige Yazawa, President of the Krill Oil Research Committee

"Krill oil is a unique marine resource, primarily composed of phospholipid omega-3s, with physiological functions becoming clearer each year. Our committee aims to connect these fundamental insights to societal value through collaborative academic and industry partnerships, generating and disseminating scientific evidence. The findings of sustained absorption and muscle mass preservation are crucial in advancing krill oil's potential to the next stage. Sansei's focus on how to design functional benefits rather than just the quantity of ingredients sets a new direction for creating value in the health food industry. We aim to accelerate the social implementation of health value grounded in scientific evidence through these collaborations."

Yoshiharu Matahe, Executive Director of Sansei Pharmaceutical

"Krill oil is a primary focus for Sansei Pharmaceutical. We participate in the Krill Oil Research Committee to deepen scientific knowledge and bridge findings into formulation design and product development. The insights on sustained absorption and muscle mass retention presented here are pivotal for market differentiation and customer value creation. Moving forward, we will continue to innovate through developmental OEM operations, co-creating new values with our clients, aiming to solidify our brand reputation as synonymous with krill oil."

Conclusion

Sansei Pharmaceutical’s commitment to krill oil research not only showcases their advancements in formulation technology but also highlights the ongoing evolution of health food products in the wellness market. As krill oil gains recognition for its multifaceted benefits, ongoing studies and innovations promise to further propel its integration into various health-oriented products.

For more information, contact:
Sansei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Public Relations & Outreach: Kenichi Fujisaku
Email: [email protected]

About Krill Oil

Derived from Antarctic krill, krill oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and contains natural antioxidants like astaxanthin. Its health benefits are being rigorously studied across multiple domains, with applications ranging from cardiovascular health to brain function.

About the Krill Oil Research Committee

Established in 2013, this organization operates as a collaborative platform for academic and commercial entities dedicated to advancing research and application for krill oil. The committee plays a vital role in generating internationally recognized outcomes and promoting widespread understanding of krill oil's benefits.