A Closer Look at the Ingredients in Kirkland Wild Alaskan Fish Oil
When choosing a fish oil supplement, understanding the ingredients is crucial. Kirkland Signature's Wild Alaskan Fish Oil is a popular choice for its quality sourcing and whole-omega profile. Unlike some fish oils that are highly processed, this product is known for its extra-virgin, cold-pressed formulation that preserves the naturally occurring nutrients from the fish. The ingredients can be broken down into the active fish oil concentrate and the materials used to create the softgel capsule.
The Core Ingredient: The Wild Alaskan Fish Oil Blend
The primary and most important ingredient is the fish oil itself. It is explicitly labeled as coming from wild-caught Alaskan fish, ensuring a high standard of sourcing. The specific fish sources include Alaska Pollock, Cod, and Salmon. A key feature is that the oil exists in its naturally formed triglyceride (nTG) state, which is believed to be more bioavailable to the human body. A single 1400 mg softgel contains 330 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids, of which 230 mg are EPA+DHA.
Beyond just Omega-3s, this whole-fish oil also contains a full spectrum of other beneficial nutrients that are not found in highly refined, concentrated alternatives. These include:
- Other Omega Fatty Acids: Provides a complex of Omega-5, 6, 7, 9, and 11 fatty acids.
- Astaxanthin: A naturally occurring antioxidant that gives the fish oil its amber color.
- Vitamins A and D: These fat-soluble vitamins are found naturally within the wild fish oil.
Softgel Composition and Additives
The softgel capsule and other inactive ingredients ensure the stability and delivery of the fish oil. For the Kirkland Wild Alaskan Fish Oil, these non-medicinal ingredients are relatively simple and focused on function.
- Gelatin (Bovine): This is a key component of the softgel casing. It is derived from bovine sources, meaning it is not suitable for individuals with beef allergies or those following a strictly vegetarian or vegan diet. This distinguishes it from other fish oil products that might use porcine gelatin or plant-based materials.
- Glycerin and Water: These are also standard components of the softgel to provide its pliable texture.
- Vitamin E (as a mixed Tocopherol): Included as an antioxidant to preserve the freshness of the fish oil and prevent it from going rancid.
- Contains Soy: The product label also indicates it contains soy. Individuals with soy allergies should be aware of this. This may be related to the mixed tocopherols, which are sometimes derived from soy.
Comparison: Kirkland Wild Alaskan Fish Oil vs. Standard Kirkland Fish Oil
To highlight the key differences, here is a comparison between the Wild Alaskan Fish Oil and a more standard, concentrated fish oil product also offered by Kirkland.
| Feature | Kirkland Wild Alaskan Fish Oil 1400 mg | Kirkland Signature Fish Oil 1000 mg |
|---|---|---|
| Source of Fish Oil | Wild-caught Alaska Pollock, Cod, and Salmon | Wild-caught ocean fish, specifically anchovy, sardine, and/or mackerel |
| Extraction Method | Cold-pressed, extra-virgin, whole-food process | Molecularly distilled and ultra-purified |
| Form of Omegas | Naturally formed triglyceride (nTG), whole-omega spectrum | Ethyl ester form (more common in concentrates), refined |
| Other Nutrients | Contains naturally occurring Vitamins A, D, and Astaxanthin | Does not include these naturally occurring nutrients |
| Gelatin Source | Bovine | Porcine |
Conclusion: What to Know About the Ingredients
The ingredient list for Kirkland Wild Alaskan Fish Oil is straightforward and highlights its main selling points: the whole-omega profile and natural triglyceride form. The use of a gentle, cold-press extraction method preserves more of the natural compounds found in wild fish, such as vitamins A and D and the antioxidant astaxanthin. The ingredients for the softgel itself are standard, with bovine gelatin and an antioxidant (mixed tocopherols) added to maintain freshness. Consumers should be mindful of the included soy and bovine gelatin, as these may not align with specific dietary restrictions. Overall, the ingredient list reflects a product that aims to provide a less-processed, more natural alternative for omega fatty acid supplementation.
To ensure you are purchasing the correct product, always check the label for the specific ingredients. More information can be found on the Costco website, which sells the Kirkland Signature line.
Check out the official Costco product page for more details.
