The best fish oil supplements in 2025, tested and reviewed by a dietitian
Are you missing out on a nutrient that could protect your brain, heart and joints? If you're like 68% of Americans, the answer is yes. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for fighting chronic inflammation and boosting overall health, yet many of us are falling short of our daily dose. The best fish oil supplements bridge this gap, delivering omega-3s like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) from fatty fish or marine algae to reduce inflammation and support brain and heart health.
Quick Overview
Best overall
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
More options$30 at Amazon
Best vegan
Future Kind Vegan Omega-3
$29 at Future Kind
Best value
Nature Made Fish Oil Softgels
More options$24.19 for 100 soft gels at Amazon
Best liquid
Carlson The Very Finest Fish Oil
$47 at Amazon
Best for heart health
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10
More options$55 at AmazonSee 1 more"Omega-3s are essential because our body doesn't produce them on their own, meaning we need to consume them. Some health benefits of omega-3s include helping to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol profile, reduce inflammation, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and improve mental health and mood/brain function," says Jessica M. Kelly, a dietitian and owner of Nutrition That Heals.
Here's the good news: Omega-3 DHA and EPA are found in fatty fish — think salmon, sardines and mackerel — and eating fish just twice a week is enough to hit the recommended levels of these essential fats. But if seafood isn't your thing, don't worry. That's where high-quality fish oil (or plant-based) supplements come in.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R25ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeAs a registered dietitian and non-fish eater, I dove deep into the latest research, chatted with fellow nutrition experts and bravely tested top-rated products (yes, even the fishy-tasting ones) to find the best fish oil supplement on the market. After evaluating 30 products and testing 8, I surfaced with six standout omega-3 supplements — including a vegan-friendly option — that are worth your hard-earned dollars. Read on to see which ones made the cut — and which ones got tossed back.
Table of contents
Best overall fish oil supplement
More fish oil supplements we like
Types of fish oil and other omega-3 supplements
Factors to consider when shopping
How we chose
Other products we tested
FAQs
Meet our experts
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2bekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeUpdate, June 26, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best overall fish oil supplement is unchanged. We included additional testing data after several months of regular use.
Best overall fish oil supplement
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best overall
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
Form: Soft gel | Dose: 2 soft gels per day | EPA and DHA per serving: 650 mg EPA and 450 mg DHA | Source of omega-3s: Deep sea fish oil | Added ingredients: Gelatin, glycerin, water, natural flavor, RRR-alpha-tocopherol, rosemary extract
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega earns the title of best overall omega-3 supplement for its exceptional quality, sustainability and transparency. Founded in 1995, Nordic Naturals is highly regarded among nutrition professionals, including myself, for its rigorous standards and dedication to producing trustworthy supplements.
Each product lot is tested for purity and potency, with the results made publicly available on their website — an uncommon level of transparency. Also, the brand's fish oil is sustainably sourced and certified by Friend of the Sea, ensuring it comes from 100% wild-caught sardines and anchovies.
With 1,280 mg of omega-3s per dose, including 1,100 mg of DHA and EPA, this supplement delivers the potency needed for optimal brain, heart and inflammation support. It's also third-party tested and free from the dreaded fishy aftertaste, something I can personally confirm after over a year of use.
An enthusiastic 5-star Amazon reviewer agrees, calling it "The Best Omega-3 Supplements I've Ever Tried!!!!!" They highlight the standout lemon flavor, sharing, "Unlike many fish oil supplements that leave a strong, unpleasant aftertaste, the lemon flavor makes it a pleasure to take. I actually look forward to my daily dose! This is particularly beneficial for those who may be sensitive to the taste of fish oil."
While the soft gels are easy to swallow, their large size might not suit everyone. And if you already get sufficient DHA and EPA through your diet, this high-potency dose may be unnecessary.
ProsEasy-to-swallow softgelsNo fishy aftertasteThird-party tested for purity and potencyCertificate of Analysis (COA) is readily available onlineFriend of the Sea-certifiedConsLarge capsule size may be off-putting to someHigh potency may be unnecessary if your diet already provides sufficient DHA and EPA$30 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$25 at Target(back to top)
More fish oil supplements we like for 2025
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best vegan
Future Kind Vegan Omega-3
Form: Soft gel | Dose: 1 to 2 soft gels per day | EPA and DHA per serving: 75 mg EPA and 150 mg DHA | Source of omega-3s: Algal oil | Added ingredients: Modified tapioca starch, glycerin, purified water
Future Kind Omega-3 takes the crown as the best vegan omega-3 supplement by addressing a critical nutritional challenge for vegans and vegetarians: DHA and EPA deficiency. Unlike fish oil, it sources these essential omega-3s from algal oil, a completely plant-based and sustainable alternative that delivers the same health benefits.
While plant-based diets often provide alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the body’s conversion of ALA to DHA and EPA is highly inefficient. Without direct sources of these omega-3s, vegans and vegetarians are at risk of falling short. Future Kind bridges this gap, offering 225 mg of combined DHA and EPA per soft gel, tailored specifically to plant-based lifestyles.
What sets Future Kind apart isn't just its nutrient profile — it's the brand’s ethos. Founded by plant-based nutritionists, Future Kind ensures every product is vegan, cruelty-free, sustainably packaged and third-party tested for purity and potency. Beyond nutrition, the company makes a real impact by donating a portion of every sale to animal sanctuaries, aligning its mission with its values.
I've been using this omega-3 supplement for six months now, and it's become my go-to. While I don't mind larger pills, the smaller soft gels are definitely a bonus. What really sets it apart, though, is the bright citrus flavor — absolutely no fishy smell or aftertaste.
ProsVegan and cruelty-freeThird-party tested for purity and potency with testing results onlinePleasant orange aromaEco-friendly glass bottleConsRelatively expensive, especially if you take 2 capsules per day$29 at Future Kind
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best value
Nature Made Fish Oil Softgels
Form: Soft gel | Dose: 1 soft gel per day | EPA and DHA per serving: 360 EPA and 300 DHA | Source of omega-3s: Fish oil | Added ingredients: Gelatin, glycerin, tocopherols
If you're on a budget but still want a high-quality omega-3 supplement, Nature Made Omega-3 Fish Oil 1200 mg is the go-to choice. Why? Because it strikes the perfect balance between affordability, reliability and accessibility — earning it the title of best value.
In addition to being widely available online and in stores, the majority of Nature Made supplements are verified by US Pharmacopeia (USP), a testing organization that ensures supplements contain the types and amounts of ingredients listed on the label.
Nature Made offers several fish oil omega-3 supplements, all of which are free from artificial additives and preservatives. The biggest difference between products is the potency. However, it's worth noting that some products aren't USP verified. For this reason, I prefer the company's Omega-3 Fish Oil 1200 mg. In addition to being USP-verified, its one-a-day formulation provides 660 mg of combined EPA and DHA, making it a good option for non-fish eaters.
These softgels have over 1,000 Amazon reviews, scoring an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. People have commented on the positive health benefits: "My HDL up; triglycerides down," and that they were "recommended by my cardiologist."
Among the capsules I tested, this one was among the largest, but it was still fairly easy to swallow. While it doesn't have a noticeable fishy smell or aftertaste, if you let it sit on your tongue for a moment too long, you may experience a slight fishy flavor.
ProsConvenient one-a-day formulationBudget-friendlyAvailable in a range of potenciesUSP-verified for purity and potencyConsLarge capsule size$24.19 for 100 soft gels at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$36.97 for 120 soft gels at Target
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best liquid
Carlson The Very Finest Fish Oil
Form: Liquid | Dose: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) | EPA and DHA per serving: 800 mg EPA and 500 mg DHA | Source of omega-3s: Wild caught, sustainably sourced fish oil | Added ingredients: Natural flavors, antioxidant blend
If you dislike swallowing pills, we recommend trying Carlson The Very Finest Fish Oil — our best liquid choice. Happy Amazon customers agree that it makes supplementation easy. One 5-star review says, "So glad my doctor recommended Carlson Fish oil. It's amazing and does not cause issues like all the other capsules that I've tried in the past. This is liquid goes down and stays down."
Made with sustainably caught fish and with an orange or lemon flavor to mask any fishiness, this oil is a high-quality option that can be taken straight or stirred into a beverage. We also like that it's IFOS-certified. International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) is an independent certification program that ensures the purity, potency and quality of fish oil supplements.
Since your body doesn't need to break down a capsule, liquid fish oil supplements are absorbed more efficiently. The catch? They can be oily. During testing, I was struck by how thick Carlson's liquid fish oil was — it felt like drinking straight vegetable oil with a subtle hint of orange. The oily texture lingered on my tongue, and I had to eat a snack to shake it off. That said, I was pleasantly surprised that there wasn't even a trace of fishy smell or taste.
Each 1 teaspoon (5 ml) serving provides 1,300 mg of combined EPA and DHA. Just keep in mind that each serving also contains 45% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin E. To avoid consuming potentially toxic amounts of vitamin E, this fish oil should not be combined with other vitamin E-containing supplements.
ProsFriend of the Sea-certifiedThird-party tested for purity and potency by IFOSThe liquid form is easier to take and more versatileDoesn't taste fishyWoman-owned companyConsMust be refrigeratedThick, oily consistency may not be for everyoneProvides 45% of the daily value for vitamin E, so avoid combining it with other vitamin E supplements$47 at Amazon
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best for heart health
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10
Form: Gelcap | Dose: 1 gelcap, two or three times per day | EPA and DHA per serving: 450 mg EPA and 180 mg DHA | Source of omega-3s: Fish oil | Added ingredients: Gelatine, purified water, glycerin, vitamin E
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10 earns its spot as our top choice for heart health by combining two powerhouse nutrients in one supplement. CoQ10 is a compound produced by the body to help generate energy in your cells. It also acts as an antioxidant and protects against oxidative stress. As you age, your body produces less CoQ10, which may negatively affect your health. While more research is needed, low levels of CoQ10 have been associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Moreover, like DHA and EPA, CoQ10 has also been linked to benefits for cardiovascular health. In addition to protecting against heart disease, studies suggest that CoQ10 may help reduce the risk of death and major complications for people who already have heart failure or related conditions.
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10 provides 630 mg of combined EPA and DHA and 30 mg of CoQ10 per gelcap. The recommended dosage is one gelcap taken two to three times daily, based on individual needs. Although the softgels are on the larger side, I found them surprisingly easy to swallow, with no detectable fishy taste or odor.
Thorne Research takes pride in quality and transparency. Their supplements are manufactured in third-party-certified facilities and undergo extensive testing, both in-house and through independent labs, to ensure purity, potency and optimal absorption. This commitment to excellence makes Thorne supplements a worthwhile investment.
ProsIncludes CoQ10Manufactured in NSF-certified labsZero fishinessEasy to swallow despite the large capsuleConsExpensiveLarge capsule size$55 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$54 at Carewell
Kelli McGrane, RD
Best for pregnancy
FullWell Women's Fish Oil
Form: Softgel | Dose: 2 softgels per day | EPA and DHA per serving: 100 mg EPA and 500 mg DHA | Source of omega-3s: Purified deep sea fish oil | Added ingredients: Gelatin and glycerine
Growing a tiny human? Our top pick for women — FullWell Women's Fish Oil has you covered. Specifically formulated with pregnancy and breastfeeding in mind, it delivers the right balance of EPA and DHA to support a growing baby while promoting maternal health. That said, it's also a good option for those who aren't expecting.
DHA and EPA omega-3s are essential for fetal development, including your baby's brain, eyes and nervous system. These fatty acids are also important for maternal health, including supporting overall mood and immune health, and may help reduce the risk of early preterm birth. While there aren't official guidelines for DHA and EPA during pregnancy and lactation, the American Pregnancy Association recommends taking a daily supplement with at least 300 mg of DHA.
During testing, we were particularly impressed by the size of FullWell's omega-3 softgels. They were noticeably smaller and easier to swallow than any of the other supplements we tried. The only drawback? Most FullWell products are exclusively available on the company's website. In addition to being less convenient, you'll also need to pay for shipping if you opt out of a subscription.
Founded by registered dietitian Ayla Barmmer, FullWell's supplements are thoughtfully formulated for women throughout their reproductive journey. Products are third-party tested for purity and potency with testing results readily available online.
ProsThird-party tested for purity and potency with results available onlineSustainably sourced and Friend of the Sea-certifiedContains the recommended amount of EPA and DHA for pregnancy and breastfeedingAlso suitable for non-pregnant or breastfeeding adultsEasier to swallow with small capsule sizeConsOnly available on FullWell's websiteShipping costs apply to one-time purchases$30 at FullWell(back to top)
Types of fish oil and other omega-3 supplements
Omega-3 supplements come in many forms, each tailored to different health needs and lifestyles. Here's an overview of the most common types and what sets them apart:
Standard fish oil capsules: Standard fish oil supplements comprise oil derived from fatty fish, such as anchovies, mackerel, salmon, herring or tuna. The oil tends to be rich in omega-3s and also contains vitamins A and D.
High EPA/DHA (concentrated): Many companies offer extra-strength formulations for people needing a higher dose of EPA or DHA omega-3s. According to Marjorie Cohn, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-S and clinical director of Berry Street, people who may benefit from a high EPA/DHA supplement include, "those who are allergic or do not consume any omega-3 rich foods, those trying to reduce inflammation — arthritis, for example — those trying to conceive and those who are trying to support their mental health and memory."
Krill oil: This oil is derived from Antarctic krill, tiny crustaceans rich in EPA and DHA. Interestingly, the chemical structure of omega-3s from krill oil is different than that of fish oil, and krill oil is higher in antioxidants. Some studies suggest that krill oil may be easier to absorb and have more health benefits than standard fish oil. That said, research on the benefits of krill oil versus standard fish oil is mixed, with other studies finding no significant benefits of one over the other.
Cod liver oil: Typically sourced from the liver of Atlantic and Pacific codfish, this oil tends to be higher in EPA, DHA and vitamins A and D. In fact, because of its high concentration of vitamins A and D, some experts warn against consuming cod liver oil if you're already taking a multivitamin or other supplement with these nutrients. Because of the risk for nutrient toxicity, cod liver oil is generally not recommended for kids.
Liquid fish oil: The liquid version of fish oil is an excellent alternative for those who prefer not to swallow pills. It may also offer better absorption, as there's no capsule for your body to break down. To enhance its palatability (and tone down the potentially-fishy flavor), many liquid fish oils are flavored and can be mixed into your favorite beverage.
Vegan (algal oil): Sourced from plant-like marine organisms called algae, algal oil is one of the few vegan-friendly sources of DHA and EPA omega-3s. Fun fact: The reason fish contain DHA and EPA is because they eat microalgae.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2qekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe(back to top)
Factors to consider when purchasing fish oil and other omega-3 supplements
Finding the best fish oil or omega-3 supplement means considering what matters most for your health and preferences. Here's what to keep in mind before you buy:
EPA and DHA content: Check the amount of EPA and DHA in the supplement. Although there's no official daily recommended intake, many health experts suggest at least 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily for healthy adults. If you have high triglycerides or heart disease, your doctor may advise a higher-dose omega-3 supplement. The ideal amount depends on your diet and individual needs, so it's best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Omega-6 content: Some omega-3 supplements also include omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential nutrients. However, most people already consume sufficient, if not excessive, amounts of omega-6 in their diets. To maximize benefits, opt for a supplement that focuses solely on omega-3s, particularly DHA and EPA.
Form: Fish oil supplements come in many forms, including capsules, tablets, liquids and gummies. In general, liquid fish oil is better absorbed and easier to swallow. However, some people may dislike the oily texture or find liquid options too fishy-tasting. If you don't mind swallowing pills, capsules are a good alternative to gummies because they typically contain fewer additives, including sugar.
Source of omega-3s: Fish oil is the most common source of omega-3s in supplements. I recommend choosing a supplement with oil from smaller fish because they tend to be lower in mercury than larger fish. However, if you're allergic to fish or follow a vegan lifestyle, look for supplements containing omega-3s sourced from sea algae.
Taste and odor: While the dreaded fish burps can't always be avoided, some supplements are less fishy than others. Look for products with lemon juice or other flavorings to help mask any fishiness.
Size of the pill: Because fish oil pills often include a large dosage of omega-3s, they tend to be quite large. This is especially true for one-a-day formulations and high-potency supplements. If you're not a fan of swallowing pills, consider a supplement that splits the dose into multiple pills per day or opt for a liquid formulation.
Added ingredients: When possible, look for fish oil supplements that are free of artificial additives or preservatives. If you have dietary restrictions, double-check the ingredient list to ensure they comply with your needs.
Third-party testing: Unlike medications, supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To ensure your fish oil contains the ingredients and dosages stated on the label, opt for products that have been independently tested for purity and potency by trusted third-party organizations such as NSF, USP or IFOS.
Sustainability: Ideally, look for supplements containing sustainably sourced fish. These products are often certified by the Marine Stewardship Council or Friend of the Sea.
Value: If you plan on taking fish oil supplements daily, consider the monthly cost to see which product best fits your budget.
(back to top)
How we chose fish oil and other omega-3 supplements
As a registered dietitian with nearly a decade of experience, I've dedicated countless hours to researching dietary supplements, including fish oil. To ensure a thorough review, I consulted with two fellow registered dietitians to gather insights on the benefits of omega-3s, what to look for in a quality supplement and the latest guidelines for EPA and DHA requirements. Using this expertise, I evaluated over 30 products and rigorously tested 8 of them.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R32ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeDuring testing, I focused on key factors like capsule size, ease of swallowing, taste or aftertaste and whether any side effects occurred. Each product was also assessed for overall value, factoring in certifications, ingredient formulation and price.
(back to top)
Other products we tested
While our top picks stood out for their exceptional quality, value and performance, we tested several other fish oil supplements that still offer notable benefits. Here's what we found:
Sports Research Omega-3 Fish Oil from Wild Alaskan Pollock: We liked this fish oil supplement for its one-a-day formulation, high-quality ingredients and IFOS certification. Plus, it isn't overly expensive. However, because it contains a high dose of omega-3s, it isn't suitable for most healthy adults. The capsules are also quite large and had a bit of a fishy aftertaste. Still, it's a good option if you've been recommended to take a high-dose supplement by a health care professional.
HUM OMG! Omega the Great: This third-party-tested fish oil supplement from HUM provides a combined 1,200 mg dose of EPA and DHA per serving. As with many products on our list, HUM's fish oil capsules are very large. They also have a slightly rougher coating that I found more difficult to swallow compared to a standard softgel. For that reason and the slightly fishier taste, this supplement narrowly missed our top picks.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R38ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe(back to top)
FAQs
How much fish oil should I take daily?
The ideal daily dose of fish oil depends on several factors, including your age, overall health, dietary intake of omega-3s and the supplement's omega-3 content. While there isn't a formal guideline for EPA and DHA intake, most health organizations recommend 250 to 500 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA for general health.
For individuals with heart disease or high triglycerides, higher doses — ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA — may offer additional benefits. To determine the right dosage for your specific needs, consult with a health care professional.
What's the difference between fish oil and krill oil?
"Traditional fish oil typically comes from fatty fish; sardines, anchovies, salmon or tuna. Krill oil and cod liver oil comes from, well, krill or cod," explains Cohn.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R3gekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeWhile there are some differences in terms of the exact amount of omega-3s, absorption rate and antioxidant and vitamin content, Cohn says, "the documented differences between these supplements are negligible in terms of omega-3 support, and which source [to use] is most often determined by one's personal preferences."
Can fish oil supplements reduce inflammation?
Fish oil supplements contain omega-3s, essential fatty acids that have been shown to help regulate and reduce inflammation. As Cohen explains, "Omega-3 fatty acids produce compounds in the body which act as a down dial of the inflammatory response. This is why omega-3s are so valuable for managing chronic, low-grade inflammation over time. While acute inflammation is a natural and necessary response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation can cause or worsen health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, autoimmune diseases and mental health conditions."
Are there any side effects of taking omega-3 supplements?
The most common side effects of omega-3 supplements include diarrhea, constipation, gas, nausea and vomiting. Fishy burps are also common. Because fish oil can prevent blood from clotting, fish oil supplements should not be taken by people using blood thinners like warfarin. Also, fish oil omega-3 supplements may worsen peptic ulcers.
How long does it take to see benefits from fish oil supplements?
"Once a fish oil supplement is started, it may take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months to see a significant improvement in symptoms," says Kelly.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R3oekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeStill, keep in mind that depending on your diet and reasons for taking an omega-3 supplement, you may not notice a meaningful difference after taking a supplement for quite some time, if at all. "Long-term regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids along with a diet that is nutrient-rich and balanced combats inflammation, which is an underlying variable in every disease state," says Cohn.
(back to top)
Meet our experts
Marjorie Cohn, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-S, clinical director of Berry Street
Jessica M. Kelly, RDN, LDN of Nutrition That Heals, powered by Berry Street
(back to top)
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
