More and more people are buying fish-oil capsules to reduce the risk of heart attack and strokes. They're reportedly the most popular supplement after multivitamins. Consumer Reports just tested 15 top-selling brands purchased in the New York metropolitan area to see whether they contain what they promise and are contaminant-free.
All had the amount of omega-3 fatty acids promised on the label. And the levels of dioxin-like PCBs and other contaminants were below the limits set by the U.S. Pharmacopoeia, a nongovernmental standard-setting group.
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But at least one sample of four brands had total PCB levels in amounts that could require warning labels under a strict California law. Those brands were CVS Natural, GNC Triple Organic, Nature's Bounty Odorless, andSundown Naturals.
And the coating on Kirkland Signature's enteric-coated capsules didn't disintegrate properly. That can result in a fishy aftertaste.
But Consumer Reports did find nine brands that met all the quality standards. Of those the least expensive is the Spring Valley brand sold at Walmart. The recommended dose costs just 17 cents a day.
The other brands that met all quality standards are Barlean's Organic Oils EPA-DHA, Carlson Super Omega-3 Gem, Finest Natural, Nature Made, Nature's Way Fisol, Norwegian Gold Ultimate Critical Omega, The Vitamin Shoppe Meg-3 EPA-DH, and Walgreens Concentrate.
Consumer Reports medical advisers say that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes and that most people can get enough by eating fatty fish such as salmon or sardines at least twice a week.
And Consumer Reports cautions that fish-oil supplements can interact with certain prescription drugs, including blood pressure medicine, so check with your doctor before taking the supplement.