Understanding the Core Ingredient: Fish Oil Concentrate
The primary and most crucial component of NOW Omega-3 fish oil is the fish oil concentrate. This is where the beneficial essential fatty acids, Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), are found. These are polyunsaturated fatty acids that the human body cannot produce on its own and are essential for various bodily functions, particularly cardiovascular and cognitive health.
NOW sources its fish oil from small, cold-water fish, primarily anchovies, sardines, and sometimes tuna. Sourcing from these smaller fish reduces the risk of heavy metal contamination. The oil concentrate is manufactured under stringent quality control standards and undergoes a process called molecular distillation. This advanced technique removes potentially harmful levels of contaminants like PCBs, dioxins, mercury, and other heavy metals, ensuring a pure and high-quality product.
Other Key Ingredients: The Softgel and Preservatives
The fish oil is delivered in a softgel capsule to make it easy to consume and protect the oil from degradation. The composition of the softgel includes:
- Bovine Gelatin: A protein derived from animal collagen, used to form the soft outer shell of the capsule. This makes the product unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Glycerin and Water: These are combined with the gelatin to create the soft, flexible texture of the capsule.
- D-Alpha Tocopherol: A natural form of Vitamin E, this ingredient functions as an antioxidant. It is added to protect the delicate omega-3 fatty acids from oxidation, which can cause the oil to become rancid and lose its potency. In some NOW products, this is sourced from sunflower, while in others, it may be from non-GMO soy.
Some specialized NOW Omega-3 products, particularly the 'Ultra' or 'Odor-Controlled' versions, also feature an enteric coating. This coating is a pharmaceutical glaze that prevents the softgel from dissolving in the stomach, allowing it to pass into the intestines before releasing its contents. This is particularly helpful for people who experience nausea or a "fishy" aftertaste from regular fish oil supplements.
Comparison of NOW Omega-3 Fish Oil Products
It is important to note that NOW Foods offers a variety of Omega-3 products. The ingredients can vary, most notably in the concentration of EPA and DHA and the inclusion of an enteric coating. Below is a comparison table of two common types based on product label information.
| Feature | Standard NOW Omega-3 (1,000 mg) | NOW Ultra Omega-3 (1,000 mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Oil Concentrate | 1,000 mg | 1,000 mg |
| EPA per Softgel | 180 mg | 500 mg |
| DHA per Softgel | 120 mg | 250 mg |
| Total Omega-3s | 300 mg | 750 mg |
| Other Ingredients | Softgel (Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Water) and d-alpha Tocopherol | Softgel (Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Water, Enteric Coating) and d-alpha Tocopherol |
| Odor Control | No | Yes (Enteric Coated) |
Purity and Sourcing
One of the most important aspects of any fish oil supplement is its purity. Fish in the wild are naturally exposed to various contaminants. NOW Foods addresses this concern with its molecular distillation process, which purifies the oil to remove impurities effectively. Furthermore, the company regularly tests its fish oil for heavy metals and other contaminants, adhering to strict quality control standards that often exceed industry requirements. For more detailed information on their quality assurance practices, you can visit the NOW Foods Omega-3 FAQ page.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in NOW Omega-3 fish oil are primarily a concentrated fish oil derived from anchovies and sardines, providing beneficial EPA and DHA. The oil is housed within a softgel capsule made from bovine gelatin, glycerin, and water, and is stabilized with d-alpha tocopherol to maintain freshness. A key feature is the molecular distillation process, which ensures the removal of harmful contaminants and heavy metals, reinforcing the product's purity and safety. Different versions, such as the Ultra or enteric-coated options, may have variations in EPA/DHA concentration and additional coatings to enhance tolerability.
