How to choose omega-3: EPA, DHA, form and quality
Choose your omega-3 by the EPA and DHA in each recommended serving, the source and the capsule format. BMPHARMA offers fish oil and a vegan algae-oil formula, with different EPA:DHA balances and pack durations. This guide brings composition, quality documents and daily use together for a clear comparison.
1. Compare EPA and DHA, not just oil weight
A capsule can contain 1000 mg of oil without providing 1000 mg of EPA and DHA. Add the two declared amounts, but also retain the DHA figure separately. Compare the recommended daily portion across products: one brand may quote one capsule, another two or three.
2. Choose a source that fits your diet
Fish oil, krill oil and algae oil can all contain long-chain omega-3s. The source alone does not tell you the EPA:DHA balance. Algae products can provide DHA alone or EPA and DHA together. For a vegan choice, check the shell as well as the oil; for allergies, read the complete ingredient information.
3. Understand TG, rTG and EE forms
TG means triglycerides, rTG re-esterified triglycerides and EE ethyl esters. A 2010 study in 72 volunteers compared approximately 3.3 g EPA+DHA daily for two weeks and found different blood responses between preparations. The tested form, food and formulation provide the context for these results. Knowing the oil form adds a useful detail to your product comparison.
4. Read what a quality report actually covers
Look for the product or ingredient name, batch number, date, laboratory, tested parameters and limits. The IFOS documentation associated with our fish oil covers the raw material. Match each report to the ingredient or finished batch it identifies. GOED’s monograph sets voluntary specifications for omega-3 oils and helps explain the parameters in quality documentation.
5. Understand TOTOX and oxidation testing
TOTOX combines peroxide and p-anisidine measurements: 2 × PV + pAV. The cited GOED 2021 monograph sets a maximum of 26 within its scope, with method qualifications for products such as flavoured oils. Read this oxidation result with the sample identity and test date, alongside the separate EPA/DHA and contaminant results.
6. Compare cost per labelled serving
Divide the current pack price by the number of daily servings. For our 60-capsule packs, that is 60 servings for fish oil and 30 for algae oil. You can also compare cost per gram of EPA+DHA, but do not increase your serving just to match another product’s front-of-pack number. Check the minimum-durability date and storage directions before buying several packs.
The two BMPHARMA formulas, on the same basis
| Comparison | Omega 3 fish oil | Omega 3 Algae — life'sOMEGA |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended daily serving | 1 capsule | 2 capsules |
| EPA | 500 mg | 200 mg |
| DHA | 250 mg | 600 mg |
| EPA + DHA | 750 mg | 800 mg |
| Oil weight | 1000 mg fish oil | 2000 mg microalgae oil |
| Source | Peruvian anchovies | Schizochytrium sp. microalgae |
| Capsule shell | Bovine gelatin softgel | Plant-based softgel |
| Suitable for vegans | No | Yes |
| 60-capsule pack | 60 daily servings | 30 daily servings |
See the fish-oil formula · See the algae-oil formula
What the 250 mg figures actually mean
| Authorised nutrient statement | Daily intake for the beneficial effect |
|---|---|
| EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart | 250 mg EPA and DHA combined |
| DHA contributes to maintenance of normal brain function | 250 mg DHA |
| DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision | 250 mg DHA |
Both labelled servings above meet these three intake conditions for normal heart function, brain function and vision. The heart statement uses 250 mg EPA and DHA combined; the brain and vision statements each use 250 mg DHA. Check the DHA amount separately when comparing formulas.
Check suitability before taking either product
Both products are food supplements for adults. Their labels exclude children, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not use them if you are allergic to an ingredient, and do not exceed the labelled serving. Fish oil contains fish and bovine gelatin; a vegan label on an algae product is not a guarantee against every allergy. If you take medicines, particularly anticoagulants, have a heart-rhythm condition or are due for surgery, discuss supplementation with a doctor or pharmacist. Food supplements do not replace a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
How can I compare value?
Compare concentration, source, packaging and the cost per labelled daily serving. Read the available quality documents for the oil or product identified in each report. Together, these details help you choose the formula that fits your priorities.
Can capsules still cause fishy reflux?
Yes. Tolerance varies, including with good-quality products. Follow the label and seek advice for persistent symptoms. You can discuss the oil source and format with a healthcare professional when reviewing your routine.
Does algae oil need quality testing?
Yes. Controlled cultivation describes how algae are produced; traceable specifications and appropriate testing document the oil’s quality parameters. Read those documents alongside the ingredient list.
Omega-3 explained: ALA, EPA, DHA and daily intake
Sources and product basis
The product comparison uses the current 60-capsule labels. The sources below provide further detail on omega-3 nutrients, the studied preparations and quality specifications.