Omega-3, Phytosterols, and Beta-glucans

This Frost & Sullivan study examines the potential health and economic benefits of supplementation with omega-3, phytosterols, and beta-glucans among adults aged 55 and over, with raised triglyceride or cholesterol levels. 

Combining published scientific evidence with economic modelling, the study estimates potential reductions in cardiovascular events and associated costs across the 27 EU Member States and the UK from 2025 to 2035. The analysis includes healthcare costs, productivity losses and informal care costs, and deducts the cost of supplementation to estimate the potential net savings to society.

Key Findings

A growing economic burden: The study projects that the annual societal cost of cardiovascular disease across the EU and UK will rise from approximately €307 billion in 2025 to €399 billion by 2035.
 
Potential economic value from targeted supplementation: For every €1 spent on supplementation, the model estimates a net societal benefit of €7.77 for omega-3 EPA and DHA, €8.02 for phytosterols, and €3.85 for beta-glucans, after deducting supplementation costs.

The returns are modelled estimates for 2025, based on daily intakes of 1 g omega-3 EPA and DHA, 1.5 g phytosterols and 3 g beta-glucans in the respective eligible populations. They represent potential benefits rather than observed savings.

Policy Implications

The findings provide an economic basis for policymakers at EU and national levels to consider targeted supplementation in defined at-risk populations within broader cardiovascular disease risk reduction strategies, alongside healthy diets, lifestyles, and medical care. Such consideration should take account of the scientific evidence for each intervention and the assumptions underpinning the modelled benefits.

To take this evidence forward, FSE encourages policymakers at EU and national levels to:
 

• Include targeted supplementation in cardiovascular health plans: Encourage consideration of evidence-based supplementation for defined at-risk populations when developing and implementing national plans.
   

• Link cardiovascular health checks to personalised nutritional support: Promote access to dietary assessment and professional advice on appropriate supplementation for individuals identified with elevated cardiovascular risk, guided by scientific evidence and individual needs.
   

• Explore fiscal measures to improve affordability and access: Given the important healthcare cost savings that can be realised by supplementation, assess whether targeted tax incentives or other fiscal measures could make evidence-based supplementation more affordable for at-risk populations, with particular consideration given to food supplements bearing relevant authorised health claims. 

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