The fish oil amount on a bottle is not the same as its EPA and DHA content. Compare the named fatty acids on the same serving basis, then read the separate directions for use.
What do the numbers mean?
EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. A bottle may highlight the total oil weight on the front and give smaller EPA and DHA amounts in its ingredient panel. Formulations vary, so the largest front-label number alone cannot establish which product contains more EPA and DHA. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Omega-3.
A worked label example
The Advanced Nutrition Omega-3 label declares the following amounts per two softgels:
- Fish oil: 2,350 mg.
- EPA: 235 mg.
- DHA: 352.5 mg.
- EPA plus DHA: 587.5 mg, calculated by addition.
- Vitamin E: 11 mg.
Therefore, 2,350 mg means fish oil, not 2,350 mg of EPA plus DHA. Always retain the “per two softgels” wording when comparing these figures.
Serving size and daily directions are different
This label gives quantities per two softgels but prints directions of two softgels twice daily with food. Read both sections; do not assume a nutrition-panel serving is the entire daily intake. Check suitability with a healthcare professional, especially when taking medicines or combining supplements.
How long does a bottle last?
Divide the capsule count by the number taken each day. At the printed four-softgel daily schedule, 60 softgels provide 15 days and 90 provide 22 full days plus two softgels. Changing the schedule changes that calculation.
What should I compare before buying?
Check EPA and DHA per serving, the number of softgels per serving, directions, allergens, expiry and price for the same pack size. More capsules or a larger oil number does not automatically mean better suitability for your needs.
See the Omega-3 ingredients and available pack sizes. Follow the current pack label if it differs from online information, and contact us to resolve any discrepancy.