The Truth of Low-Quality Fish Oils
Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for maintaining heart, brain, and joint health. However, not all fish oils are of equal quality. While some products may seem like a cost-effective option, there are hidden risks associated with low-quality fish oil. In this article, we’ll expose the common issues with fish oil supplements and explain how to make sure you’re choosing a high-quality product for optimal health benefits.
The Truth of Low-Quality Fish Oils
1. Misleading Labels
Many fish oil brands advertise "1,000 mg fish oil per capsule," which can sound impressive at first glance. Upon closer inspection, you'll often find that only a small portion of that 1,000 mg is actual omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), the compounds responsible for the health benefits. The rest of the capsule may be filled with filler oils that offer little or no health benefits, rendering the product ineffective. Always check the label to see the actual amount of EPA and DHA per serving.
2. Low-Quality Extraction
The extraction method plays a crucial role in the quality of fish oil. Most better-quality fish oils are typically extracted and purified using molecular distillation. However, when working with delicate, heat-sensitive omega-3s, supercritical CO2 extraction is favoured over molecular distillation. Unlike molecular distillation, supercritical CO2 extraction avoids the use of high heat, minimizing the risk of oxidation. When purity is a top priority and a solvent-free method is desired, supercritical CO2 technology is the ideal option.
3. Rancidity and Oxidation
Freshness is essential when it comes to fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are highly susceptible to oxidation, which not only diminishes their effectiveness but also creates harmful free radicals. Poor processing, improper packaging, and extended shelf lives can all contribute to rancidity. Unfortunately, many low-cost fish oils are already rancid before they even reach the store shelves. To guarantee the oil’s freshness and efficacy, look for fish oils that are IFOS-certified—this ensures the product is fresh, safe, and free from harmful contaminants.
Why IFOS Certification Is Crucial for Fish Oil Quality
The International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) certification is the global benchmark for fish oil quality. Here’s what IFOS certification ensures:
- Accurate Labeling: The omega-3 content on the label matches what’s inside the bottle.
- Purity: Free from harmful contaminants like mercury, lead, and PCBs.
- Freshness: Guaranteed to remain effective throughout its shelf life.
- Quality & Safety: Every batch undergoes rigorous testing.
- Transparency: Test results are publicly available for complete peace of mind.
Choosing an IFOS-certified product guarantees you’re investing in fish oil that is both safe and effective, ensuring you get the health benefits you expect.
LABO Nutrition OmaxPure Omega-3
OmaxPure Omega-3 Fish Oil is an IFOS-certified fish oil that delivers exceptional quality. It offers 90% ultra-pure omega-3s in a super-absorbable rTG (re-esterified triglyceride) form, providing superior potency and bioavailability. Each softgel contains 1,125 mg of omega-3s and is fortified with Vitamin E and Rosemary Extract for enhanced stability and protection against oxidation. OmaxPure undergoes advanced purification using supercritical CO2 technology and a proprietary three-layer purification process to remove heavy metals, toxins, and environmental pollutants. Exceeding IFOS and GOED standards, OmaxPure® provides unmatched safety, quality, and health benefits.