Fish is the primary food source of the omega-3s EPA and DHA, but Americans simply don’t eat enough fish on a regular basis. Even those who eat fish several times a week aren’t getting enough EPA and DHA because much of the fish consumed today is farm raised and lacks significant amounts of EPA and DHA. Also, many people are increasingly avoiding fish due to growing concerns about environmental toxins in fish (such as mercury, dioxins, PCBs, etc.). In addition, there are several factors that can lead to reduced absorption of EFAs—age, poor diet, alcohol consumption, low levels of certain vitamins and minerals, some prescription drugs, compromised immune status, and a diet high in saturated and/or trans-fatty acids (meat, dairy, fast food, fried food, baked goods, and processed foods). Moreover, people with health challenges or those who are currently deficient often require larger daily servings of EPA and DHA, which can be difficult to obtain from diet alone and direction from their healthcare provider.

Third-party test results for purity and freshness. A third-party certificate of analysis indicates the levels of purity from environmental toxins, and the oxidation level (or freshness) of the oil. Certificates of Analysis are available on our website; simply enter your lot number to view the certificate for your specific bottle.

• Manufacturing standards. Is the fish oil manufactured according to international quality standards?
• Smell and taste. Does the fish oil smell or taste fishy? If so, the fish oil has most likely been exposed to oxygen and is becoming rancid. Rancid (oxidized) oils should be avoided, as they yield less-than-healthy effects. Avoid fish oils that have really strong flavorings added to them because they are most likely trying to hide the fishy flavor of rancid oil.
• Triglyceride molecular form. Research has shown that triglyceride form omega-3s are up to 70% better absorbed than synthetic ethyl ester omegas.
• Supportive scientific research to prove the efficacy of the fish oil brand.
• Sustainable fishing practices. Any environmentally responsible fish oil manufacturer should offer transparency into their fishing practices.

Omega-3 fatty acids fall into two major categories: plant-derived (flaxseed) and marine-derived (fish). This is often confusing for physicians and patients, and many think the two are interchangeable. Flaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which can be partially converted to EPA and DHA, but that conversion is somewhat slow and can be inhibited by lifestyle and health factors. Research shows that approximately 5% of ALA converts to EPA, and just 1% converts to DHA, under optimal conditions. While flaxseed and flaxseed oil may contain many health-promoting benefits, they do not provide the necessary amounts of EPA and DHA.

Nordic Naturals recognizes the severity that allergens present for individuals. Our facilities are NSF GMP certified and adhere to strict procedures in order to prevent cross contamination. We use FDA-compliant allergen labeling, and disclose any warnings relating to allergen exposure beneath the supplement facts in the ingredients listing on the product label.

Nordic Naturals always recommends that consumers check each individual product for any allergen concerns and also discuss them with their health care professional to determine which products are appropriate for their nutritional needs.