Pure starts, start with us

Giving moms peace of mind with plant-based nutritional lipids

Shaping healthier futures by nourishing the first moments of life and caring for the planet

From the very beginning it is vital to establish a strong foundation for life. dsm-firmenich’s DHA and ARA nutritional lipids portfolio is designed to reflect the balance found in human milk, supporting early brain, visual and immune development. Our sustainable, plant-based fermentation approach uses DHA from microalgae and ARA from a plant-based fungal source, providing a natural vegetarian alternative to fish oil for maternal and infant nutrition.

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Our commitment to infant nutrition safety and quality

Microbial ARASCO® and life’s®ARA

In line with our commitment to help give infants the best start in life, we develop infant nutrition solutions that meet the highest industry standards for safety and quality. We fully own and control the entire production chain of our microbial ARASCO® and life’sARA® products —from fermentation through to the finished oil. As the only end-to-end western-based provider of arachidonic acid, we do not rely on fermentation, crude oil, or intermediate materials from third-party suppliers. Nor do we outsource any steps of the production or processing to external parties for ARASCO®. We comply with stringent microbiological criteria and have a thorough HACCP plan, as well as microbiological monitoring and policies in place. Furthermore, our food safety management systems are regularly audited according to GFSI principles and certified by accredited external certification bodies. 

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Giving babies the right DHA and ARA for their development

life'sDHA® and life's®ARA microbial oils are:
  • naturally free from ocean borne contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, brominated flame retardants, and naturally free from PFAS, BPA, BPS and phthalates. 
  • measured against the strictest industry standards for process contaminants 3-MCPD, GE and mineral oil hydrocarbons.​

Every year, we conduct an extensive benchmark study on environmental and process contaminants to confirm our ​quality leadership.​

life’sDHA® is one of the purest solutions on the market – offering the best for people and the planet.​ An algal-based DHA that is natural, clean, trustworthy, and consistent. ​Delivering the best for baby and the planet.

Our life’s®ARA oil is a sustainable, vegetarian source of ARA, produced in a controlled environment from start to finish.

Sustainably sourced solutions

Giving baby the best start with vegetarian nutritional lipids.

The latest nutrition research

Why are DHA and ARA so important for infant nutrition?

Pure love ​deserves ​a pure start

Pregnancy shapes a lifetime. It’s an opportunity to influence a child’s ability ​to thrive. Prenatal nutrition does more than simply sustain ​growth; it programs the fetus epigenome with lasting effects on disease risk. Beyond folic acid and iron, DHA is the next hero ingredient with strong awareness ​and scientific proof to reduce the risk of preterm birth.

Visit our maternal nutrition page to explore our full portfolio of nutritional ingredients to support maternal health.

Solutions to support motherhood journey

Give moms peace of mind with plant-based omega-3s.

The life's® product portfolio guarantee

  • 100% plant-based, sustainable alternative to fish oil
  • Zero impact on the marine ecosystem
  • Naturally free from environmental and ocean borne contaminants
  • Non-GMO, vegetarian and vegan
  • Solvent-free and natural
  • Made in North America
  • Reduced fishy taste and smell

 

We are more than an ingredients provider, we are a reliable, end-to-end, innovative, purpose-led partner powered by experts to deliver science-backed nutrition and health products and quality customized solutions.

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