The Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) is celebrating its 20th anniversary on March 3rd, which also marks Global Omega-3 Day.
Since its founding in 2006, GOED has evolved from a small group of visionary companies into a global leader representing the entire supply chain of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids.
The organisation has been dedicated to enhancing public health by promoting the increased consumption of these essential nutrients.
In the 20 years since its inception as a spinoff from a Council for Responsible Nutrition working group, GOED has emerged as the authoritative voice for the omega-3 industry.
Key achievements include the following:
- GOED Voluntary Monograph: this document sets the quality standard for the omega-3 industry. GOED member companies must adhere to strict quality and ethical standards outlined in the monograph, promoting excellence and enhancing consumer trust in their products
- Global advocacy: GOED has successfully advocated for international standards and intake recommendations, including supporting Article 13 claims in the EU (2011), promoting a Codex Fish Oil Standard (2017), securing a blood pressure health claim in the US (2019) and influencing contamination regulations for MOAH in the EU (2024)
- Consumer education campaign: in 2015, GOED initiated a consumer education campaign in the US, leading to increased omega-3 supplement sales and improved media coverage. This led to the launch of platforms such as AlwaysOmega3s.com to support ongoing consumer education
- Scientific and technical leadership: GOED provides essential resources for members, including the Clinical Study Database and the Global Omega-3 Navigator, to help them navigate the scientific and technical landscape.
Celebrating Global Omega-3 Day 2026
March 3rd has been designated as Global Omega-3 Day to emphasise the significant gap between the current global intake of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids and the amounts needed for optimal health.
Despite the wealth of research highlighting the benefits of omega-3s for heart, brain, eye and prenatal health, an astonishing 90% of the global population still does not consume enough EPA and DHA.
"Our 20th anniversary is a time to celebrate how far we've come, but it's also a call to action," said Ellen Schutt, Managing Director of GOED.
"The scientific basis for EPA and DHA for overall health is overwhelmingly positive, but the intake gap remains."
Our mission for the next 20 years is to move from awareness to action, ensuring that every person understands that EPA and DHA intake is foundational to human health.
Later this month, GOED will continue its anniversary celebration at the GOED Exchange 2026 in Singapore (March 17-19), where industry leaders will discuss the future of the category, including innovations in science, production and even messaging, to help meet the growing global demand.