Mara Renewables, a Dartmouth-based producer of microalgae-derived omega-3 oil, said Tuesday it has become the first company in its sector to receive origin verification from independent testing company ORIVO.

The verification uses laboratory testing and data analysis to assess the origin and authenticity of omega-3 ingredients. According to Mara, the process can identify its microalgal DHA with a confidence score of 99 percent to 100 percent.

DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid used in dietary supplements, infant formula, food and beverages, and animal nutrition products.

Mara -- which raised US$9.1 million from S2G Investments last summer -- produces fish-free omega-3 oil through precision fermentation using microalgae. The company says independent verification will provide customers with additional evidence of ingredient origin and help them substantiate product claims.

The announcement comes as omega-3 supply chains face pressures from disruptions to marine supplies, including those associated with El Niño. Supply shortages and rising prices can increase the risk of ingredient misrepresentation.

“Transparency should go beyond telling customers where an ingredient comes from — we should be able to prove it,” said Harry Boot, Mara’s CEO and board member.

ORIVO uses scientific testing to verify whether marine ingredients and omega-3 products are consistent with their declared sources, the release said. Its verification program is intended to provide manufacturers, brand owners and consumers with documented evidence of ingredient provenance.

“Origin matters, especially as omega-3 supply chains face increasing pressure and new suppliers enter the market,” said Svein Erik Haugmo, ORIVO’s CEO.

Mara said the verification is part of its broader effort to improve traceability and provide customers with greater visibility into the ingredients used in their products.