DELFT, NETHERLANDS — Veramaris Pets, a supplier of natural algal oil ingredients for US pet food and feed manufacturers, announced Oct. 19 it has been deemed “GRAS” (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center of Veterinary Medicine.

This qualification allows Veramaris to offer its fish oil-alternative ingredient to pet food manufacturers in the United States. The ingredient is a source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids for pets, delivering two to five times more EPA and DHA compared to traditional fish oils.

“We are delighted to have received this latest approval. It could only happen because of the time and energy devoted by our people and the significant financial investment from the business,” said Jeff Alix, global head of business development for Veramaris’s companion animals division. “This was a major undertaking and underlines the commitment of Veramaris in this very important market.”

The company, a joint venture of DSM and Evonik, reported one kilogram of its algal oil contains as much EPA and DHA as 60 kilograms of wild fish can provide in a traditional fish oil, making the ingredient a sustainable option as well.

“Not only is Veramaris® Pets sustainable, it also provides a concentration of EPA & DHA Omega-3 exceeding 50% and can be used in dog foods that are sold across the US,” Alix added.

Stay up to date on news about the pet food processing industry on our News page.