Top 9 Best Cod Liver Oil Brands

Cod liver oil has been a staple dietary supplement for decades, renowned for its impressive nutrient profile and versatile health benefits. Extracted from the livers of cod fish, this golden elixir is a concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, essential for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and inflammation management.

Additionally, cod liver oil is naturally rich in vitamins A and D, two vital nutrients that support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.

This article offers invaluable insights into selecting the highest quality cod liver oil products by examining sourcing, processing methods, freshness, and purity.

Benefits of Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin A, offers many health benefits. Here's a detailed look at the primary benefits:

1. Prevention of Heart Disease: Cod liver oil effectively lowers high triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood that, when elevated, can increase the risk for heart disease. It also benefits blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system.
2. Cancer Risk Reduction: The high vitamin D levels in cod liver oil have been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers. Specifically, it has shown promise in preventing breast cancer through its antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects on breast cancer cells. While sunlight exposure remains a significant source of vitamin D, cod liver oil can help supplement this vital nutrient, especially in reducing the risk of mammary tumors​.
3. Diabetes Management and Prevention: Thanks to its rich content of healthy fats, cod liver oil can help manage and control insulin resistance and blood glucose levels. Additionally, it has been shown to lower symptoms associated with diabetes complications, such as kidney disease. Notably, using cod liver oil and vitamin D supplements during the first year of a baby’s life and pregnancy could be associated with a reduced risk of developing type 1 diabetes​.
4. Support During Pregnancy: Cod liver oil supports metabolic health and blood sugar regulation during pregnancy. Its anti-inflammatory properties and high content of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and vitamin D are beneficial for the growing baby, contributing to the development of the brain and eyes​.
5. Immune Support and Inflammation Reduction: Cod liver oil has properties that may reduce inflammation and support the immune system, offering benefits in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of these conditions highlights its anti-inflammatory potential​.
6. Respiratory Health Benefits: A lower incidence of asthma in adults has been observed with regular cod liver oil intake. This suggests a protective effect on respiratory health, potentially due to its anti-inflammatory properties and immune support​.

Risks and Side Effects of Cod Liver Oil

While cod liver oil is celebrated for its health benefits, it is crucial to know its potential risks and side effects. These concerns should not deter use but encourage informed and cautious consumption.

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Concerns: Cod liver oil is popular among pregnant and breastfeeding women due to its high DHA and vitamin D content, which are crucial for the baby's development. However, its high vitamin A content may harm the developing fetus. As with any supplement during pregnancy, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to assess the benefits and risks​.

2. Interaction with Medications: The omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil can interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, individuals on medication, especially those on blood thinners, should consult with their healthcare provider before starting cod liver oil supplements​.

3. Common Side Effects: Some individuals may experience minor side effects from taking cod liver oil, such as bad breath, burping, a metallic taste in the mouth, and an upset stomach. These side effects are generally not serious and may decrease as the body adjusts to the supplement​​.

4. Allergic Reactions: Though rare, allergic reactions to cod liver oil can occur. Symptoms can include skin rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

5. Overdose Risks: Taking more than the recommended dosage of cod liver oil can lead to vitamin A and D toxicity. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, and other serious health issues. It's crucial to adhere to the dosage recommendations provided on the product label or by a healthcare provider.

What to Look for When Buying Cod Liver Oil

Selecting the right cod liver oil requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure you get a high-quality product that delivers the best health benefits. Here are key points to consider:

1. Source and Sustainability: Cod liver oil should ideally come from the livers of wild-caught Atlantic cod. Given the historical overfishing issues, it is crucial to choose brands that source their cod liver oil from sustainable fisheries. Certifications from reputable organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) can indicate sustainable practices​​.

2. Processing and Purity: The process of cod liver oil can significantly impact its nutritional quality. Cold-pressed and fermented methods are often considered superior, as they help preserve the oil's natural vitamins and essential fatty acids. Look for brands that clearly state their processing methods and prioritize those that avoid high heat and chemical extraction.

3. Freshness and Handling: Cod liver oil is sensitive to oxidation, which can degrade its quality. Opt for products packaged in dark or opaque bottles to minimize light exposure, and check if the brand takes special care during bottling and storage to prevent rancidity. A fresh, slightly fishy taste and a pale straw color indicate good quality​​.

4. Purity and Contaminant Testing: The best cod liver oil products undergo rigorous testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, PCBs, and dioxins. Reputable brands often provide certificates of analysis (COA) to demonstrate their oil's purity and safety.

5. Vitamin A and D Levels: Since one of the primary reasons for taking cod liver oil is its vitamin A and D content, check the label for specific levels of these vitamins. Balancing these nutrients' benefits with the toxicity risk, especially vitamin A, is essential. Brands that test and report the levels of these vitamins in their products allow for more informed dosing decisions.

Best Cod Liver Oil Brands

Selecting the right cod liver oil brand is crucial, considering factors like effectiveness, purity, and sustainability to ensure you choose a product that aligns with your health goals. Our detailed evaluation of the top cod liver oil supplements is designed to aid your decision-making process. These brands are recognized for their high-quality sourcing, nutritional benefits, and commitment to environmental sustainability.

Nutricost Cod Liver Oil 1000mg provides a substantial 1000mg dose of cod liver oil per softgel, ensuring a rich supply of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D. The softgels are Non-GMO and gluten-free, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality. Each bottle contains 120 softgels, offering a long-lasting supply. The oil is purified to minimize the fishy taste and smell, although some residual flavor may still be present.

Nutricost Cod Liver Oil does deliver on its promises. We’ve noticed improvements in joint health, energy levels, and overall well-being. Despite the minor drawbacks, like the fishy taste and large softgel size, the benefits outweigh these concerns. This cod liver oil is a solid choice for anyone looking to boost their intake of essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Pros

• High Dosage: Each softgel delivers a potent 1000mg dose of cod liver oil.
• Essential Nutrients: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D, supporting overall health.
• Non-GMO & Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions.

Cons

• Taste and Smell: The fishy aftertaste can be off-putting for some.
• Softgel Size: The large size may be difficult for those who have trouble swallowing pills.

Carlson Cod Liver Oil is a liquid fish oil supplement derived from wild-caught Norwegian Arctic cod. The product emphasizes sustainability, sourcing from the Nordic regions using traditional methods. A single teaspoonful delivers 1,100 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, which are crucial for heart, brain, vision, and joint health. The cod liver oil is available in a lemon flavor and comes in a 500 ml bottle.

Pros

• Each teaspoonful contains 1,100 mg of omega-3s, supporting various aspects of health.
• The lemon flavor has received accolades for making the fish oil more palatable.
• The product is derived from Arctic cod caught using sustainable methods in Norway.
• The oil is processed and purified in a regulated Norwegian facility to ensure maximum freshness and nutrient retention. It also boasts IFOS and IGEN non-GMO certifications.
• Apart from omega-3s, it provides vitamins A, D, and E, enhancing its health benefits.
• The product uses a nitrogen flush and includes antioxidants to prevent oxidation and ensure freshness.

Cons

• Some users find the product to be expensive compared to other omega-3 supplements on the market.
• Despite the lemon flavor, some may still find the taste of cod liver oil off-putting.
• After opening, it must be refrigerated and used within 100 days, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• While the product is gluten-free, those with specific dietary restrictions or allergies to fish should exercise caution.

Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil is designed to support heart, brain, nervous system health, and immune system function. It is derived from 100% wild Arctic cod, ensuring a pure and natural product.

This supplement comes in a 16-oz bottle, providing 1060 mg of omega-3s with EPA and DHA across 96 servings. The product is available in orange flavor, making it more palatable for daily consumption. While the exact price is not provided, it is noted for its quality and health benefits.

Pros

• Provides 1060 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving, supporting cardiovascular, cognitive, and immune health.
• The supplement has received accolades, including Clean Eating Magazine's Clean Choice Award, highlighting its quality and consumer trust.
• The triglyceride molecular form enhances absorption, and the orange flavor helps mask the fishy taste, making it more enjoyable to consume without fishy burps.
• Third-party tested for purity and freshness, certified by Friend of the Sea (FOS), and produced in a zero waste facility powered by biofuel, reflecting Nordic Naturals' commitment to environmental sustainability.
• The brand is recognized for its sustainable and ethical practices, ensuring consumers receive safe and effective nutrients.

Cons

• Despite the flavored option, some users might still be sensitive to the underlying taste of cod liver oil.
• Individuals allergic to iodine or fish should be cautious, as mentioned in the safety information, potentially limiting its use for those with specific dietary restrictions.

Athelas Neutraceuticals offers Cod Liver Oil Capsules as a high-quality natural supplement designed for adults. Each bottle contains 120 softgel capsules, with each capsule delivering 1,000mg of Cod Liver Oil, which includes 110mg of EPA and 100mg of DHA.

This supplement is touted for its triple-strength formula, which supports heart health and provides a significant amount of Omega-3 fatty acids without any fishy taste. The capsules are made from never-frozen fish, ensuring freshness and purity.

Pros

• Utilizes never frozen fish to ensure the freshness and purity of the cod liver oil.
• Formulated to eliminate the common fishy aftertaste and prevent fish burps, improving the consumption experience.
• Each batch is tested for purity, ensuring that contaminants are reduced to undetectable levels.
• Each capsule contains a high dose of Omega-3 fatty acids (240mg total), including EPA (110mg) and DHA (100mg), requiring only one capsule per day for the recommended intake.
• Specifically marketed to support heart health along with additional benefits to joint and immune system health.

Cons

• Contains fish ingredients, which could be a concern for individuals with specific fish allergies.
• While the immediate benefits are highlighted, there is less information available regarding the long-term impact of continuous supplementation.
• Some users reported that the capsules were stuck together upon arrival, which could be inconvenient and possibly affect the quality of the capsules.

Barlean's Cod Liver Oil Liquid Supplement is designed to support joint, brain, and heart health. Its lemonade flavor makes it more palatable than traditional cod liver oil supplements.

This 8-oz bottle offers a significant dose of Omega-3 fatty acids, with 900mg of EPA and DHA and 16mcg of Vitamin D. It is marketed as a high-quality, purified fish oil sourced from Icelandic cod, ensuring sustainability and cleanliness. The supplement is gluten-free, made with natural ingredients, and aimed at improving energy management, heart health, bone and joint support, and inflammation and cholesterol management.

Pros

• With 900mg of EPA and DHA, it provides a substantial amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for cardiovascular, brain, and immune health.
• Sourced from the clean waters of the North Atlantic, it's third-party tested for mercury and other heavy metals, ensuring a pure product.
• The liquid form ensures rapid absorption and immediate benefits, compared to capsules that might take longer to break down.
• The lemonade flavor addresses the common complaint about the fishy taste of cod liver oil, making it more enjoyable to consume.
• Supports a wide range of bodily functions, including energy management, bone and joint health, and cholesterol management.

Cons

• After opening, the product must be refrigerated, which might be inconvenient for some users or those who travel frequently.
• Contains fish ingredients, which could be problematic for individuals with specific allergies.
• While a natural characteristic, some users might find the cloudy appearance off-putting if they're accustomed to clear supplements.

Dropi Omega 3 Fish Oil Liquid, in a refreshing Ginger flavor, is a maximum-strength dietary supplement designed to provide a wealth of health benefits. Each 5.7 Fl Oz bottle is derived from 100% natural Atlantic cod liver, making it an extra virgin, raw, and clean source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA), Vitamin A, and Vitamin D.

This product stands out due to its traditional cold processing method, which preserves the natural properties of cod liver oil without the need for additives or artificial ingredients. Dropi has been recognized for its superior taste, having been awarded the Superior Taste Award in 2021. Its benefits include supporting the immune system, brain health, joint support, and reducing inflammation.

Pros

• Provides nearly all daily requirements for vitamins A and D, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Sourced from the clean waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, with every batch traceable through a QR-code system, ensuring a product free from unnecessary additives.
• Recognized for its excellent taste, making the consumption of cod liver oil more pleasant.
• Cod liver is exclusively caught daily from one of the cleanest fishing grounds in the world, adhering to sustainable practices.
• Product development is inspired by Icelandic traditions of healthy living and sustainability.

Cons

• As a natural product, its nutritional value and color may vary between bottles.
• Requires refrigeration after opening, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• While the ginger flavor may be appealing to some, it might not suit everyone's taste preferences.

Amazing Omega offers a dietary supplement in the form of Norwegian Cod Liver Oil softgels, each containing 1000 mg of cod liver oil. The product is flavored with lemon to avoid the fishy aftertaste commonly associated with cod liver oil.

A bottle contains 250 softgels, priced at $24.95, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to incorporate the health benefits of cod liver oil into one's diet. The softgels are non-GMO, gluten-free, and have been third-party tested to ensure purity and potency. They are manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Standards and proudly made with guaranteed purity & potency.

Pros

• Cod liver oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for supporting brain and cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
• Each softgel delivers a significant dose of 1000 mg of Norwegian Cod Liver Oil, providing an efficient way to meet daily omega-3 fatty acid requirements.
• The lemon flavoring helps mask the fishy taste of cod liver oil, making the softgels more palatable and easier to consume regularly.
• The product is non-GMO, gluten-free, and third-party tested for purity and potency, ensuring consumers receive a high-quality supplement.
• With 250 softgels per bottle, this supplement offers good value for money and reduces the need for frequent re-purchases.

Cons

• Some users might find the softgels to be large, which could pose a challenge for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.
• Individuals with fish oil allergies or sensitivities might not be able to use this product.
• As with most fish oil supplements, proper storage is necessary to prevent the softgels from going rancid, which may require refrigeration and thus may not be convenient for all users.

Burpless Cod Liver Oil, offered by Dr. Martin's Nutrition, comes in a package of 100 softgels. Priced at $12.29, this supplement is designed to be easily digestible without the common fishy aftertaste associated with cod liver oil.

Each softgel contains 415mg of Cod Liver Oil, including 37mg of EPA and 36mg of DHA, vitamins A and D, and is intended for daily use to support heart, brain, eye, and immune health, as well as joint, bone, and muscle wellness.

This product is sourced from wild-caught Norwegian cod, known for its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, in the pristine waters of Norway. It's formulated in the USA, adhering to strict quality and purity standards.

Pros

• Each softgel provides a rich source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, vital for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and more.
• Designed to prevent the common fishy aftertaste and burps associated with fish oil supplements.
• Offers additional health benefits by including essential vitamins for immune system health, eye health, and more.
• Made from 100% natural Norwegian cod from one of the world's cleanest waters, ensuring a high-quality, eco-friendly product.
• Only one softgel per day is required, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Cons

• Some users might find the EPA and DHA content lower compared to other brands that offer higher concentrations in a single serving.
• Some users might find the softgels too large for easy swallowing, a common issue with fish oil supplements.
• While being unflavored can be a pro for some, others may prefer flavored options to further mask the taste of cod liver oil.
• While certified for reduced packaging, some users might prefer larger quantities per bottle for reduced environmental impact and longer supply.

Solgar Cod Liver Oil is a dietary supplement available in a bottle of 250 softgels. It is designed to support a healthy immune system, healthy eyes and vision, and bone health. It is enriched with vitamins A and D, making it vital for overall health maintenance. This supplement is gluten-free, dairy-free, and made without the use of genetically modified organisms (non-GMO).

Pros

• Provides a natural source of these essential vitamins, supporting immune health, vision, and bone health.
• Ensures the removal of contaminants, offering a pure form of cod liver oil.
• Free from gluten, wheat, dairy, yeast, sugar, sodium, artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and colors, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
• Solgar has been committed to quality, health, and well-being for over 70 years, using only the finest raw materials.
• Comes in softgel form, making it easy to consume as part of a daily routine.

Cons

• Although the product comes in a protective amber glass bottle, there have been no specific complaints about packaging, but glass can be prone to breakage during shipping.
• While providing beneficial vitamins, it's important to monitor intake to avoid exceeding the recommended daily amounts of vitamins A and D.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a premium, sustainable cod liver oil supplement, Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil stands out as the top choice. Sourced from wild Arctic cod and rigorously tested, this orange-flavored oil provides an impressive 1060mg of omega-3s per serving to support heart, brain, and immune health.

With certifications highlighting its purity and the brand's ethical practices, Nordic Naturals offers a high-quality, environmentally-conscious option for maximizing the benefits of cod liver oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much Cod Liver Oil is safe to take daily?

Up to 3/4 teaspoon per day is considered safe for long-term use. Higher doses may be used short-term for therapeutic reasons but should be monitored for body responses.

Is the fermentation process for Cod Liver Oil similar to historical methods?

Yes, modern fermentation processes are similar to traditional ones, where livers were fermented in a vat or barrel, allowing the oil to separate naturally. This process is crucial for preserving the oil's nutrients.

Can taking Cod Liver Oil make you feel exhausted?

Feeling exhausted could be a sign of too much Vitamin A intake or liver toxicity. Reducing the dosage to a very small amount might mitigate this effect, but always listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

When is the best time to take cod liver oil?

The best time to take cod liver oil is not universally agreed upon and can depend on individual health goals and digestive comfort.