The supplement market is saturated with fish oils, but few brands command the reputation of Nordic Naturals.
Known for setting the industry standard in purity and freshness, their standard “Omega-3″ soft gels are a popular entry point for consumers looking to support heart and brain health.
However, with a price point higher than generic drugstore brands, is it worth the investment? This review analyzes the nutritional profile, sourcing, and benefits of Nordic Naturals Omega-3 to help you decide if it aligns with your health goals.
Why Omega-3s Are Essential
Omega-3 fatty acids are “essential” fats, meaning your body cannot produce them on its own. You must obtain them through your diet or supplementation.
They are critical components of cell membranes throughout the body and affect the function of cell receptors.
The two most crucial types found in marine sources are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
While you can get these nutrients by prioritizing Omega-3 fatty acid foods in your diet, such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, supplements ensure a consistent daily dosage without the need for meal planning.
Primary Health Benefits
- Heart Health: Supports healthy cholesterol levels and maintains blood pressure within normal ranges.
- Brain Function: DHA is a structural component of the brain, supporting cognition and memory.
- Immune Support: Omega-3s help regulate immune responses and manage inflammation.
Nordic Naturals Omega-3: Product Breakdown
This specific product is Nordic Naturals’ maintenance formula. It differs from their “Ultimate Omega” line in terms of concentration, offering a non-concentrated formula derived from 100% wild-caught sardines and anchovies.
The Triglyceride Advantage
A major gap in many consumer guides is explaining the “form” of the fish oil. Many budget competitors use ethyl ester molecules—a synthetic fat structure created during processing to cut costs.
Nordic Naturals manufactures its fish oil in the triglyceride form. This is the molecular form naturally found in fish. Research indicates that the triglyceride form is up to 70% more absorbable by the human body than the ethyl ester form found in cheaper alternatives.
Sourcing and Purity
- Wild Caught: Sourced from the South Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
- Friend of the Sea Certified: Certified sustainable.
- Purity: Third-party tested for environmental toxins, including heavy metals like mercury.
- Taste: Infused with natural lemon flavor to eliminate the “fishy burps” common with lower-quality oils.
Nutritional Value and Supplement Facts
Understanding exactly what you are putting in your body is vital. Below is the nutritional breakdown for the standard serving size of Nordic Naturals Omega-3 (Soft Gels).
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
| Serving Size | 2 Soft Gels |
| Calories | 20 |
| Total Fat | 2.0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Total Omega-3s | 690 mg |
| — EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) | 330 mg |
| — DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) | 220 mg |
| — Other Omega-3s | 140 mg |
Note: The product also contains d-alpha tocopherol (Vitamin E), which acts as a natural preservative to maintain freshness.
Price Analysis (USD)
Nordic Naturals is a premium brand, and the price reflects the manufacturing quality. Below is a current price comparison across major retailers for the 60-count bottle (30 servings).
- Official Site: ~$18.95
- Target: ~$17.99
- iHerb: ~$16.11 – $17.81
- Walgreens: ~$19.99
Cost Per Serving: At an average price of $18.00 per bottle, the cost is approximately $0.60 per daily serving (2 soft gels). Considering the high absorption rate of the triglyceride form, this offers competitive value compared to cheaper ethyl ester products, where absorption is lower.
How and When to Take Omega-3
To maximize the benefits of your supplement, timing and pairing matter.
The Importance of Fat
Omega-3s are fat-soluble nutrients. While Nordic Naturals uses the absorbable triglyceride form, it is still best practice to take these soft gels with a meal containing dietary fat. This stimulates the release of bile enzymes, which further aid digestion and absorption.
Usage Guidelines
- Dosage: Take 2 soft gels daily.
- Best Time: With your largest meal of the day (often dinner) to ensure ample digestive enzyme activity.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
Food vs. Supplements
While this supplement is high quality, whole foods remain the gold standard. High-quality fish, similar to omega-3 salmon 3 profiles (rich in EPA and DHA), provides protein and selenium alongside healthy fats. However, to match the 690 mg of Omega-3s found in one serving of this supplement, you would need to consume specific fish regularly.
Top Omega-3 Fatty Acids Foods:
- Mackerel
- Salmon
- Cod Liver Oil
- Herring
- Oysters
- Sardines
- Anchovies
If you cannot eat these fatty fish 2-3 times per week, the Nordic Naturals Omega-3 supplement bridges the nutritional gap effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this product have a fishy aftertaste?
No. Nordic Naturals uses a patented oxygen-free manufacturing process and adds natural lemon flavor. This prevents oxidation (rancidity), which is the primary cause of fishy burps and aftertaste.
Is this product suitable for vegans?
No, the soft gels are made from bovine gelatin, and the oil is from fish. Nordic Naturals offers a separate “Algae Omega” line for vegans.
How does this compare to “Ultimate Omega”?
The standard “Omega-3” (reviewed here) contains 690 mg of total Omega-3s per serving. The “Ultimate Omega” contains 1280 mg per serving. The standard version is sufficient for general health maintenance, while Ultimate Omega is better for those with specific therapeutic needs prescribed by a doctor.
Is it safe for children?
While safe, the soft gels may be a choking hazard for small children. Nordic Naturals offers specific “Children’s DHA” products in liquid or chewable forms designed for younger ages.
Final Thoughts
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 stands out as a reliable, high-purity option for daily health maintenance. While it is more expensive than generic store brands, the use of the triglyceride form ensures you are actually absorbing the nutrients you pay for.
- Best For: Individuals looking for general heart and brain support who want a verified, pure product without fishy side effects.
- Not For: Vegans or those requiring high-intensity therapeutic doses (who should opt for the Ultimate Omega line).
If you are looking to close the gap in your diet left by a lack of omega-3 fatty acid foods, this product is a safe, effective, and scientifically backed choice.
