The Omega 3 Group was established in 2002 to investigate the potential for increasing the consumption of oil-rich seafood through communicating the benefits of long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The Group evolved through the Health Enhancing Food and Drink Initiative supported by Scottish Food & Drink in association with Scottish Enterprise.

In April 2004 the Group pursued a legal heart health claim for long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids through the UK approval body, the Joint Health Claims Initiative (JHCI). The approach was made in partnership with other interested UK and European parties and co-ordinated by Dr Ray Rice, a renowned expert in this field.

In March 2005 the JHCI announced a new heart health claim for long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, following consultation with seven leading, independent UK scientists. This is the first time that such an authoritative endorsement of the heart health benefits of long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids found in oil-rich fish has been issued in the UK.

If you are looking for oil-rich fish that will deliver at least the levels of long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids referred to in the claim, look out for the ‘Rich in omega 3 logo’ created by The Omega 3 Group.