Examples of marine and freshwater related Novel Foods
The European market has seen a rise in marine and freshwater-derived Novel Foods, which are mostly sourced from algae, microalgae, fish, and other aquatic organisms. These products are increasingly valued for their unique nutritional and functional properties, but their use is carefully regulated to ensure safety and efficacy. Below are some notable examples of these Novel Foods, along with their primary applications in various food categories.
| Novel Food | Primary Uses |
|---|---|
| Algal oil from Ulkenia sp. | Food supplements, functional foods |
| Astaxanthin-rich oleoresin from Haematococcus pluvialis | Food supplements, nutraceuticals, sports nutrition |
| Odontella aurita microalgae | Food supplements, fortified foods |
| Schizochytrium sp. oil | Infant formula, food supplements, functional foods |
| Dried Tetraselmis chuii microalgae | Aquaculture feed, food supplements |
| Fish peptides from Sardinops sagax | Food for special medical purposes, sports nutrition, weight management products |
| Phosphatidylserine from fish phospholipids | Cognitive health supplements, functional foods |
| Therapon barcoo/Scortum | Food for special purposes (e.g., medical, weight control) |
| Calanus finmarchicus oil | Food supplements, omega-3 enriched products |
| Antarctic Krill oil from Euphausia superba | Food supplements, heart health products |
| Fucoidan extract from Fucus vesiculosus and Undaria pinnatifida | Food supplements, immune support products, functional foods |
Most marine and freshwater Novel Foods are restricted to specific applications, such as food supplements, fortified foods, or products designed for special purposes — including medical, weight control, or sports nutrition. Their regulated use ensures that consumers benefit from their unique properties while maintaining high standards of safety and quality in the European market.