Cod liver oil

What is cod liver oil?

Cod liver oil is made from the liver of cod. It contains the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA as well as the naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamins A and D. That sets it apart from classic fish oil, which comes from the flesh of oily fish and usually contains very little vitamin A and D.

Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, and vitamin A to the maintenance of normal vision. How much of each a product provides is shown in the nutrition table.

Cod liver oil or fish oil?

• Cod liver oil: from cod liver, with natural vitamin A and D, often sold as a liquid.
• Fish oil: from the flesh of fish such as anchovy or mackerel, often more concentrated in EPA and DHA.

Modern cod liver oil is purified and flavoured and tastes much milder than it used to.

Our range

• Liquid: Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil in lemon, orange, strawberry or unflavoured; Osavi Norwegian Cod Liver Oil with 1000 mg omega-3 per serving in lemon, lemon-mint, orange or unflavoured, plus a version with added vitamin D3.
• Capsules: Carlson Labs Wild Norwegian Cod Liver Oil Gems, Osavi Cod Liver Oil Softgels, Holland & Barrett High Strength Cod Liver Oil and NOW Foods Cod Liver Oil.
• With vitamin D: Nordic Naturals Arctic-D Cod Liver Oil.
• For children: Osavi Norwegian Cod Liver Oil Kids with 500 mg omega-3.

What to look for

• EPA and DHA: compare the amount per serving, not just the total amount of oil.
• Vitamins A and D: if you take other products with these vitamins, keep an eye on the total.
• Origin and purity: Norwegian or Arctic cod, details on purification.
• Storage: keep liquid cod liver oil cool after opening and use it within the stated time.

Follow the dose on the label. If you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

Does cod liver oil taste of fish?

Flavoured versions with lemon or orange taste mild. Freshness and correct storage also make a difference.

Capsules or liquid?

Liquid provides more omega-3 per serving, while capsules are tasteless and handy on the go.

Is cod liver oil the same as fish oil?

No. Cod liver oil comes from cod liver and naturally contains vitamins A and D, while fish oil comes from the flesh of fish.