The Muscle Mag
The innovative technology provides an objective analysis of the key components that contribute to the taste and smell of omega-3 oils, which are known to be susceptible to oxidation and degradation.
This process establishes a reproducible specification limit for each batch of omega-3 oil, ensuring optimal and consistent quality levels.
Ståle Søfting, the sales and marketing director at GC Rieber VivoMega, stated: “This technology allows us to accurately and objectively measure the sensory profile of our VivoMega oils.
“We are proud of this advancement, which reinforces the quality, purity, and taste of our products, enabling us to deliver the best possible product to our customers.”
Sensory standards
The traditional industry standard for evaluating the sensory performance of oil involves the total oxidation value (TOTOX) to assess oxidation levels, combined with assessments from sensory panels.
These conventional methods may have limitations such as the subjectivity of panels and the potential lack of correlation between low TOTOX and high sensory performance over time.
To address the need for a higher, objective standard for measuring sensory performance, VivoSens developed a new tool using GC Rieber’s technology. This method detects volatile components responsible for a specific sensory profile, which are then identified and quantified using a standard curve.
Søfting emphasized the significance of this new technology: “Fish-derived omega-3 oils are prone to oxidation and degradation, which can impact sensory performance. Our omega-3 oils exceed global quality standards, and with this new method, we can enhance quality and sensory attributes.
“A standardized sensory evaluation allows customers to leverage high-quality oils with favorable sensory characteristics in their marketing efforts, distinguishing their brands in a competitive market.
“Unlike subjective human taste panels, our proprietary method offers a fully objective approach to analyzing taste and smell, documented on the certificate of analysis for every batch,” he added.
Product portfolio
VivoMega offers a variety of omega-3 oils sourced from fish meal industry by-products, including the ‘platinum’ range with 800mg/g of EPA and DHA. The ‘Ultra’ range contains 700mg/g of EPA and DHA, while the ‘Core’ range includes 500mg/g EPA and DHA.
The oils are sustainably harvested from the company’s facility in Norway, certified by Friend of the Sea and MarinTrust for sustainable production and responsible fishery management.
Since 2015, VivoMega has consistently achieved final oxidation values 75% lower than IFOS 5-star and 80% lower than the GOED monograph, demonstrating ongoing efforts to ensure a high-quality end product.
