Abstract

ANALYSIS OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS MARKET IN BULGARIA

*Valentina Petkova, Lili Karamancheva

Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Sofia, BULGARIA.

ABSTRACT

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered as essential fatty acids. There is intensive research relating to the health benefits of these acids. Goal of this study is to perform analysis of the Omega-3 fatty acids market in Bulgaria because of its versatility. The methods applied include statistical, documental analysis and marketing analysis based on IMS data for the period 2008-2010. The market of Omega-3 fatty acids is assessed to be 226 458 in volume for 2010 and in comparison to 2009 it decreased with 0,3%. In value it is 1 477 005 million Euro for 2010 and has increased with 0,7% compared to 2009. A remarkable PPG drop of -33.6% is seen for 2009. The market leader for Bulgaria is proved to be Barleans with market share of 37% for 2008 and decreased to 17% in 2010. The volume of the market is hard to be estimated, because of the many forms and concentrations of omega-3 being offered in pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets, etc.

Keywords: Omega-3-fatty acids, EPA, DHA, drug formulation.