In the world of nutraceutical supplements, one of the biggest challenges for manufacturers and consumers is preserving the quality of highly sensitive ingredients, such as Omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds, known for their cardiovascular, brain, and anti-inflammatory health benefits, are particularly vulnerable to oxidation, a process that can compromise their effectiveness if they are not properly protected (Shahidi & Ambigaipalan, 2018).
Why is Omega-3 stability so critical?
Omega-3 fatty acids—especially EPA and DHA—have a chemical structure rich in double bonds, which makes them extremely susceptible to contact with oxygen, light, and heat. This exposure accelerates their degradation, reducing the potency of the product and affecting key attributes such as smell and taste (Jacobsen, 2015).
When oxidation occurs, not only is nutritional value lost, but secondary compounds are also generated that can negatively impact the consumer experience. For this reason, the choice of packaging becomes a determining factor in ensuring the quality of the supplement throughout its shelf life (Coles et al., 2016).
High-barrier packaging: the key to preserving quality
A recent study published by GeneOnline highlights that packaging materials with high barrier properties against oxygen and light—such as aluminum and other opaque containers—are significantly more effective at preserving the stability of Omega-3 during storage (GeneOnline, 2023).
The study’s results show that these containers help reduce oxidative processes, maintaining not only the chemical stability of Omega-3, but also its bioavailability, a key aspect for the nutrient to fulfill its function in the body (GeneOnline, 2023).
In contrast, transparent packaging or packaging with lower barrier capacity allows greater exposure to environmental factors, accelerating the degradation of essential fatty acids (Jacobsen, 2015).
Aluminum as an ally for nutraceuticals
In this context, aluminum is particularly well suited for packaging Omega-3 supplements and other sensitive formulations. Its ability to completely block light and limit oxygen ingress makes it an effective solution for extending product shelf life and preserving sensory and functional quality (Coles et al., 2016).
In addition, the use of aluminum packaging helps maintain product consistency over time, an attribute that is increasingly valued in a nutraceutical market where consumer confidence is key (Shahidi & Ambigaipalan, 2018).
The scientific evidence is clear: the stability of Omega-3 depends largely on the type of packaging used. By choosing materials with high barrier properties, such as aluminum and other opaque packaging, manufacturers can ensure that their products reach the end consumer with their benefits intact and with a superior quality standard (GeneOnline, 2023; Jacobsen, 5).
In an increasingly demanding market, packaging is no longer just a container but has become a key player in protecting nutritional value and the user experience.
References
Shahidi, F., & Ambigaipalan, P. (2018). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their health benefits. Annual Review of Food Science and Technology, 9, 345–381. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-food-111317-095850
Jacobsen, C. (2015). Oxidative stability and shelf life of omega-3 oils. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology, 117(10), 1479–1488. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejlt.201400602
Coles, R., McDowell, D., & Kirwan, M. J. (2016). Food packaging technology. Wiley-Blackwell.
