Climate change is increasingly affecting global supply chains, and El Niño is a clear example. The climate phenomenon is once again disrupting fisheries along the Peruvian coast. While this may seem like a regional issue, the consequences could be felt throughout the global dietary supplement industry, particularly for brands relying on marine-based omega-3 ingredients.
Peru plays a critical role in the global omega-3 market. However, according to Aker BioMarine, warmer ocean temperatures associated with El Niño reduce the upwelling of nutrient-rich waters along the Peruvian coast, lowering marine productivity and negatively impacting anchoveta populations. As a result, authorities have introduced lower fishing quotas and temporary suspensions, partly driven by a high share of juvenile fish in catches and the need to protect long-term stock health.
The combined effect is reduced raw material availability, tighter inventories, and upward pressure on pricing.
Why It Matters for Supplement Brands
Omega-3 supplements remain a core category in consumer health, driven by continued demand for heart, brain, and general wellness applications. At the same time, awareness of preventive nutrition continues to expand.
IFFO data highlights the scale of current pressure on marine ingredient supply. In April 2026, fishmeal production declined 21% year-on-year, while fish oil production fell 19%. On a cumulative basis, fishmeal output was down 26% compared to 2025, and fish oil down 14%, illustrating how quickly environmental conditions translate into global supply constraints.
Industry stakeholders warn that ongoing disruptions in Peru could tighten fish oil availability across the value chain. Because aquaculture also relies heavily on EPA and DHA, supplement manufacturers are competing directly with feed producers for the same limited raw materials. According to Matts Johansen, CEO of Aker BioMarine, fish oil availability is becoming increasingly constrained, with tightening inventories and stronger competition for remaining supply expected to drive prices higher. This creates sustained pressure on manufacturers, private label brands, and retailers.
Diversification Is Becoming a Strategic Advantage
In response to increasing volatility, companies are reassessing traditional sourcing models. This could mean diversification of suppliers, exploration of alternative omega-3 sources, or greater flexibility in procurement strategies.
Innovation is also expanding the available supply base. Algae-based omega-3 ingredients, fermentation technologies, and improvements in sustainable harvesting methods are contributing to a more diversified market structure. While marine omega-3 remains a central input, reliance on a limited number of fisheries is gradually decreasing as the industry broadens its sourcing options.
Sustainability and Supply Security Go Hand in Hand
Protecting marine ecosystems is not only an environmental responsibility — it is also essential for ensuring future ingredient availability. Science-based fisheries management, responsible catch limits, continuous monitoring and transparent supply chains help fisheries recover from climate-related disruptions while safeguarding future production.
Temporary fishing restrictions, although challenging in the short term, are designed to prevent permanent damage to fish stocks.
Preparing for an Uncertain Future
As IFFO notes, Peru's fishery remains a cornerstone of global marine ingredient supply, meaning that any disruption quickly reverberates through the entire market.
At IQ Production, we closely monitor developments across the global ingredient market to help our partners navigate changing conditions without compromising quality or continuity. Whether it's ingredient sourcing, product development or manufacturing, resilience and innovation remain key to delivering reliable nutritional solutions in an increasingly unpredictable world.
