How Do I Tell If Fish Oil Is Fresh?

Fish oil and fish oil supplements are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acid. With several brands on the market, choosing the best and the freshest is of common concern to consumers. There are no set parameters for effectively choosing fish oil. However, there are some common facts to consider upon purchase that will help you to determine if your fish oil is at its freshest.

Heed Expiration Dates

• As with any food product, medication or over-the-counter supplements, always read the labels and pay close attention to the expiration date affixed to that product. Fish oil supplements with a recent or close to expiration date, may be sold at a discounted price,; but do know that freshness of the product may be somewhat compromised.

Telling by Smelling

• Use your nose. Of course, fish oil products will smell "fishy." But if the smell is offensively heavy, chances are the oil is not at its freshest. The same is applicable to fish food items. U.S. News and World Report Health suggests freezing your fish oil capsules to avoid that "fishy" after-taste, but refrigerating your fish oil can actually aid in retaining freshness. If capsules appear soft and slightly flat or if oil is leaking from the capsule, this may be an indication that the supplement is somewhat aged and possibly even stale.

Ask the Pharmacist

• Although there are no universal standards for choosing fish oil products, perhaps your pharmacist could recommend a method for choosing the best and freshest product. When in doubt, always refer to your local pharmacist.