The best Omega-3 supplements — How to spot quality
Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most commonly consumed dietary supplements worldwide. The offerings range from simple fish oil in plastic capsules to highly concentrated plant-based alternatives. If you want to specifically focus on quality, you should be aware of a few, but crucial, criteria.
What are omega-3 fatty acids and why are DHA and EPA important?
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own. DHA and EPA are particularly relevant: DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision. EPA and DHA together contribute to normal heart function. For many people, daily intake through diet alone is insufficient — especially with a plant-based diet.
How do I recognize a high-quality omega-3 supplement?
1. Plant-based or animal-based source
Most omega-3 supplements are fish oil-based. However, fish do not produce omega-3 themselves — they absorb it from marine algae. Algae oil provides DHA and EPA directly from the source: purely plant-based, without fish oil, without fish burps, and without the risk of heavy metal contamination from the food chain.
2. Clear DHA and EPA declaration per daily serving
What matters is not the total amount of oil, but the actual content of DHA and EPA. Reputable manufacturers accurately declare both values in mg per daily serving. Statements like "rich in omega-3" without individual values are not meaningful.
3. Sufficient dosage
According to approved health claims, the positive effect on heart function is achieved with a daily intake of at least 250 mg of EPA and DHA. Many inexpensive preparations fall significantly short of this.
4. Laboratory-tested batches
Omega-3 oils are sensitive to oxidation. Every batch should be tested for purity and identity — independently and verifiably. If this indication is missing, quality assurance is lacking.
5. No artificial additives
Flavor correctives, colorants, unnecessary excipients — many omega-3 supplements contain more than necessary. A reduced formula without additives is a clear quality feature.
6. Light-protected packaging
Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly light-sensitive and oxidize quickly if stored incorrectly. Brown glass reliably protects the contents, is reusable, and free from microplastics — a standard that plastic packaging cannot meet.
Natura Nova Omega-3 Algae Oil Forte — this is how it meets the criteria
Our Omega-3 Algae Oil Forte is based on oil from the microalgae Schizochytrium sp. and provides 1,668 mg of algae oil per daily serving, of which 917 mg are omega-3 fatty acids — with 500 mg DHA and 250 mg EPA. The formula is completely free of fish oil and is tasteless. Each batch is laboratory tested for purity and identity, and production takes place in Europe in compliance with strict quality standards.
Vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, free from artificial additives. Packaged in brown glass — for optimal protection of the sensitive fatty acids, without microplastics.