#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Omega-3 #DHA #Tanmiah

Groundbreaking Omega-3 DHA Study Unveiled

A revolutionary research project has recently emerged from Saudi Arabia, aiming to address the public health crisis related to omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies. Conducted at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, in conjunction with RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dublin, this pivotal study offers promising solutions through dietary intervention. Sponsored by Mara Renewables Corporation, a leader in microalgae-based omega-3 production, and in partnership with local poultry suppliers, the research introduces enriched chicken and eggs as viable dietary sources of omega-3 DHA.

The study, titled "Long-chain Omega-3-PUFAs – Dietary Intakes and Blood Levels Currently and in Response to Enriched Foods Amongst Saudi Adults," highlights a clear health concern: the insufficient levels of DHA, which plays a critical role in brain development for children and offers protection against chronic diseases such as heart disease, strokes, dementia, and depression.

Involving 80 healthy Saudi adult participants, the researchers monitored health markers before and after the consumption of omega-3 DHA-enriched foods over a four-month period. Each participant incorporated these enriched products into their diets four times a week. The study observed the Omega-3 Index of participants, which is a crucial metric indicating the proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cells. Initial assessments revealed a concerning average Omega-3 Index of 4.75%, categorized as high risk.

Upon consumption of omega-3 enriched foods, participants demonstrated a notable increase in blood DHA levels, with improvements significantly outpacing those in a control group not consuming the enriched foods. The most striking finding was the halving of individuals classified within the highest risk Omega-3 Index category (<4%), paired with a quadrupling of individuals in the protective Omega-3 Index range (>6%). This underscores the effectiveness of integrating omega-3 DHA into common foods without necessitating drastic dietary change.

Prof. Pat Wall from University College Dublin emphasized the study's practical implications, stating that the introduction of omega-3 DHA enriched chicken and eggs could serve as a sustainable public health solution. He advocates for actionable nutrition science that informs and shapes health policies.

Mara Renewables Corporation's position as a frontrunner in sustainable omega-3 production emphasizes the importance of environmentally responsible food systems. Their algal oil not only enhances the sensory qualities of food but also ensures a stable DHA content, providing a fish-free alternative that appeals to a broader audience.

Zulfiqar Hamadani, CEO of Tanmiah Food Company, remarked on the innovative partnership with Mara, asserting the potential impact of nutrient-enriched foods on public health. He emphasized the alignment of this initiative with Tanmiah’s greater ambition to become a global leader in halal, sustainable protein products by 2030, focusing on nutrition and consumer health.

Dr. Salwa Albar, an Associate Professor at King Abdulaziz University, reiterated the regional significance of these findings. With Saudi Arabia grappling with high cardiovascular disease rates and low fish consumption, DHA-enriched products could serve as indispensable resources for improving health outcomes. This initiative supports the goals of national health and nutrition policies, reinforcing dietary adjustments that could mitigate chronic disease risks through enhanced local food production.

Forward-looking collaborations like those between Tanmiah and Mara are crucial to amplifying the awareness and intake of omega-3 DHA among Saudi citizens, thus contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 agenda focused on improved health and quality of life.

In conclusion, the omega-3 DHA enriched foods research represents a pivotal step forward in solving nutritional deficiencies in Saudi Arabia. As key stakeholders work together, this could herald an era of enhanced public health through practical and sustainable dietary solutions.

About Tanmiah Food Company

Founded in 1962, Tanmiah Food Company is a prominent provider of poultry and processed meat products in the Middle East, publicly listed, and focusing on sustainability through comprehensive farming practices.

About Mara Renewables Corporation

Mara Renewables Corporation, based in Halifax, Canada, specializes in sustainable omega-3 production from algae, dedicated to promoting both human health and marine ecosystem preservation.