Core Ingredients of NOW Omega-3
At the heart of every NOW Omega-3 supplement is a highly concentrated fish oil, rich in the essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The specific balance of these fatty acids can vary between different NOW products, such as the standard Omega-3 versus the Ultra Omega-3 formula, which offers a higher potency per softgel. This oil is molecularly distilled, a process designed to remove potentially harmful contaminants like PCBs, dioxins, mercury, and other heavy metals, ensuring a high-purity product.
The Source of the Omega-3s
NOW Foods clearly lists the sources of the fish oil, which provides transparency to consumers. The fish oil is typically derived from cold-water fish known for their high omega-3 content. These include:
- Anchovies
- Sardines
- Tuna
- Mackerel (in some formulations)
This responsible sourcing strategy from smaller fish species helps NOW achieve a clean, contaminant-free product. The fish oil is generally sourced from a variety of regions, including Peru, Morocco, and Malaysia, depending on supply.
The Softgel Capsule and Other Additives
Beyond the primary active ingredient, the supplement's softgel capsule is another critical component. For the standard NOW Omega-3 softgel, the capsule contains:
- Bovine Gelatin (BSE-free)
- Glycerin
- Water
Some versions of the product, such as the Ultra Omega-3, are enteric-coated to prevent the softgel from dissolving in the stomach, which helps to eliminate the common 'fishy burps'. The enteric coating may include ingredients like pharmaceutical glaze, ethyl alcohol, and sunflower lecithin.
Included Antioxidant
To protect the delicate fish oil from oxidation and maintain its potency, an antioxidant is added. NOW uses d-alpha Tocopherol, a natural form of Vitamin E, which is commonly sourced from sunflower or non-GMO soy. This ingredient is key to preserving the supplement's freshness over time.
Comparison of Different NOW Omega-3 Products
NOW Foods offers several variations of its Omega-3 supplements, each with a slightly different formulation to suit specific needs. Below is a comparison table highlighting the differences between the standard Omega-3 and Ultra Omega-3.
| Feature | NOW Omega-3 Softgels | NOW Ultra Omega-3 Softgels |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Oil Concentration | 1,000 mg per softgel | 1,000 mg per softgel |
| EPA per serving (2 softgels) | 360 mg | 1,000 mg (500mg per softgel) |
| DHA per serving (2 softgels) | 240 mg | 500 mg (250mg per softgel) |
| EPA/DHA Ratio | 3:2 | 2:1 |
| Softgel Type | Standard Bovine Gelatin | Enteric-Coated Bovine Gelatin |
| Primary Fish Sources | Anchovies, Sardines, Tuna | Anchovies, Sardines |
| Benefit | Supports heart health | Enhanced potency, heart & cognitive support |
Allergen and Quality Control Information
One of NOW's commitments is to quality and transparency, with products manufactured in GMP-certified facilities. While the products contain fish, they are specifically formulated without many common allergens, including yeast, wheat, gluten, milk, egg, and shellfish. However, it is important for consumers with severe allergies to note that they are produced in a facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens. Strict testing for contaminants like heavy metals and PCBs is also performed on the final product to ensure safety. The use of d-alpha tocopherol from sunflower in most versions helps those with soy sensitivities, although some older formulations or different products may use tocopherols from soy.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in NOW Omega-3 are primarily a molecularly distilled fish oil concentrate, providing high levels of EPA and DHA from cold-water fish like anchovies and sardines. The softgel capsule consists of bovine gelatin, glycerin, and water, with some advanced formulas featuring an enteric coating. The inclusion of d-alpha tocopherol acts as a preservative to maintain the oil's freshness. NOW Foods maintains stringent quality control measures, testing for contaminants and ensuring the purity of its products, making them a transparent and reliable choice for omega-3 supplementation. For individuals seeking to supplement their omega-3 intake, understanding these core and ancillary ingredients is key to making an informed decision about the product they choose.
For more information on the role of Omega-3s in health, the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements provides a comprehensive resource: Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Health Professional Fact Sheet.
