Croda's novel ambition

Croda is hoping to gain approval under the Novel Food Regulation to market refined echium oil in Europe early next year. The omega-3 oil contains stearidonic acid (SDA), which is converted far more readily into the more beneficial EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) by the body than alpha linolenic acid, the omega-3 found in plants like flax. Paul Kollesoff, marketing manager, Croda Health Care, said: "SDA is also interesting in its own right as it has anti-inflammatory effects. We are planning to conduct further clinical research in this area."