Omega-3s: EPA and DHA Basics
How fish oil labels break down total omega-3 content into EPA and DHA, and what to compare between products.
Fish oil and omega-3 labels list a total omega-3 amount, then break it into EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The total fish oil amount is usually larger than the combined EPA and DHA, so read both lines.
When comparing products, focus on the combined EPA and DHA per serving rather than the total fish oil weight. Two products with the same fish oil amount can deliver very different EPA and DHA totals.
Omega-3 fatty acids do not have an established percent Daily Value for EPA and DHA specifically, so amounts are typically listed in milligrams without a %DV.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice or a product endorsement. Always follow the printed product label and consult a qualified healthcare provider.