Food scientists are proposing a novel way to turn regular foods into “super foods”: Add fish oil.
A new study in the Journal of Food Science, published by the Institute of Food Technologists, shows adding fish oil to a food product like goat cheese can deliver high levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids without compromising taste or shelf-life.
Fish oil delivers higher levels and more balanced proportions of omega-3 fatty acids than other sources such as flax and algal oil, researchers said.
Dairy products, like cheese, are a good choice for fish oil fortification because they have unique properties that seem to protect fish oil. “Soft goat cheese has lower fat than other cheeses making it appealing for those looking for healthy flavorful food choices,” University of Maine researchers said in a release issued with the findings.
The food scientists who conducted the study are also doing additional work to assess the stability and consumer acceptance of fish oil fortified baked snack products, as well as to explore uses for naturally flavored fish oil from fishery by-products.