New research presented in Norway suggests potential health benefits from omega-11 fatty acids found in North Atlantic herring, prompting parts of the pelagic industry to increase production and investment.
The findings were presented on 7 January at Pelagisk Arena in Ålesund, a major industry conference with around 250 participants. Researchers reported results from published studies and ongoing work showing that omega-11, also known as ketolinic acid, may affect cholesterol, inflammation, and heart health. The research is financed by the Norwegian Seafood Research Fund (FHF).
Ola Flesland of Pelagia said the results could change how marine fatty acids are viewed.
“If this holds true, we may be facing a paradigm shift,” he said, adding that it could give Norwegian herring a new market position. Pelagia is now increasing omega-11 production through its subsidiary Epax.
Research points to heart health effects
Professor Oddrun Anita Gudbrandsen of the University of Bergen presented results from animal studies showing that omega-11 reduced cholesterol levels and inflammation in obese rats. Both factors are central to heart disease.
“This clearly shows that omega-11 supplements reduce inflammation and cholesterol in obese rats,” Gudbrandsen said during her presentation. She stressed that it is too early to draw firm conclusions for humans.
Her work is supported by another FHF-financed project led by Professor Bente Halvorsen at Oslo University Hospital.
That project found reduced atherosclerosis development in both animal models and human studies. Clinical dietary studies in people have been completed, with results expected later in 2026.
Industry scales up production
Epax has worked with herring oil supplements since 2013 and launched its first omega-11 product in 2020. The company is now investing in higher output at its Ålesund plant.
“We will complete a new production line for omega-11 during 2026,” said research director Iren Stoknes. She said solid research is vital for both consumers and the industry.
Other firms are also moving. Grøntvedt Biotech supplies omega-11 as an ingredient in supplements sold internationally under the CETO3 brand. Commercial director Henrik Traaholt said omega-11 appears to have effects that differ from well-known fish fatty acids.
Potential boost for the herring sector
The timing matters for the pelagic fleet. The industry faces lower mackerel quotas in 2026, while herring quotas have risen. FHF science director Lars R. Lovund said earlier projects show North Atlantic herring has an exceptionally high omega-11 content.
He believes further research will strengthen evidence of health effects in humans. Flesland agrees and said broader awareness could lift demand. “It could mark the start of a new golden age for Norwegian herring,” he said.