It is widely recognised that the long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3PUFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5n-3), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA;22:6n-3) are beneficial for health. But what is the general recommended level of consumption of these polyunsaturated fatty acids?
A review has been published on Nutrition Research Reviews aiming at providing a global overview of dietary recommendations for long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3PUFA) for healthy general populations. The authors have identified 42 technical and scientific documents (TSD) for inclusion, using the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) global online repository of FBDG and structured Google searches. The authors examine how different countries and expert groups set intake targets across various life stages. The most common recommended intake for adults is about 250 mg/day of EPA + DHA, while pregnant women are often advised to take an additional 100–200 mg/day of DHA.
The review reveals considerable variation in how nations provide guidance: not all life stages are equally covered, and supplement advice or warnings about high intakes differ widely. Importantly, achieving the recommended intake can be a challenge for many populations due to the low consumption of these omega-3s, mainly from seafood. To bridge the gap, the authors highlight the need for more accessible and sustainable sources, such as bio-enriched foods or supplements. These insights are useful not only for nutrition researchers but also for public health officials, food industry stakeholders, and consumers looking to optimise their omega-3 intake.
To access the full review, please visit here.
Source: https://iuns.org/2025/12/an-overview-of ... pulations/

