How GC Rieber VivoMega is adapting fish and algal omega-3 production to a changing market

As manufactures continue to evolve to meet consumer and supply chain demands, GC Rieber VivoMega shares how it is shifting its dynamic and production to evolve alongside the industry.

This interview brings together written responses from Kristi Ekrann Aarak, technical business development manager at GC Rieber VivoMega, and insights from a live interview at SupplySide Global 2025 with Merethe Thomassen, communications and marketing manager at GC Rieber VivoMega. Here, they offer market and technical perspectives on fish oil and algal oil for omega-3s, challenges in supply chains, and operational workings at their facility.

Nutritional Outlook: VivoMega offers both fish oil and algae oil concentrates. From a technical or market perspective, what are the key differences, challenges, and opportunities when working with marine-derived (fish) versus plant-based (microalgae) omega-3 sources?

Kristi Ekrann Aarak: Fish oil offers an established supply chain, but faces variability in both raw material availability and composition. Algae oil provides consistent quality and composition, but at a higher cost. Technically, the technology used to produce the omega-3 concentrate is similar; however, the choice of processing route differs due to variations in the overall raw material composition.

Merethe Thomassen: Market-wise, algae oil meets the growing vegan and plant-based demand (flexitarian), while fish oil remains the most cost-effective and 'known' source. VivoMega’s strength lies in mastering both fish and algae and offering customers flexibility and quality, tailored to their needs.

Nutritional Outlook: Could you describe your experience in a role requiring rigorous quality control, documentation, and regulatory compliance in a manufacturing or laboratory environment?

Kristi Ekran Aarak: At GC Rieber VivoMega, quality and compliance are central to everything we do. Our production follows strict standards for traceability, documentation, and regulatory compliance, all the way from raw material sourcing through final product delivery. We operate under GOED (Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3), EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), and global quality frameworks, supported by rigorous internal controls, validated analytical methods, and continuous audits. Every batch is fully documented and traceable, ensuring consistent quality, safety, and transparency for our customers.

Nutritional Outlook: You’ve mentioned that fish oil will remain popular, but algae is on the rise. Is that due to consumer preferences, technology advances, or regulations?

Thomassen: It’s a mix of factors. Consumers today are more informed and selective about what they consume. Many are drawn to plant-based alternatives for reasons such as dietary preferences, allergens, or lifestyle choices, which has boosted interest in algae-based omega-3s. As a result, more brands are expanding their portfolios beyond traditional fish oil.

Nutritional Outlook: What, in your view, are the biggest challenges in ensuring a fully traceable and sustainable supply chain for ingredients like omega-3, and what role would you play in upholding those standards?

Thomassen: When ensuring a traceable and sustainable supply chain, key challenges include raw material transparency, supply stability, and credible certification. GC Rieber VivoMega addresses these through close supplier collaboration, third-party verification, and continuous improvement of traceability systems. We see sustainability as a shared responsibility across the value chain, ensuring that every product we deliver meets high environmental, ethical, and quality standards our customers can trust.