Sustainable Fish Oil The list of health benefits associated with
omega-3 fatty acids goes on and on, so it’s no wonder the market
for omega-3 supplements has boomed in recent years. But what
about the health of the planet? How can consumers be sure
they’re purchasing omega-3 supplements that do no harm? Several
species of fish are used to make fish oil. Most are small
species, including mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and
menhaden—the latter a species some worry is being over-fished.
On the plus side, most small fish reproduce quickly—and the gear
used to catch them does relatively little harm to other marine
life and the undersea environment. Environmental Defense Fund
states on its website, “fish oil supplements are an acceptable
choice for ecologically concerned consumers.” There are also
non-fish options, including omega 3s derived from the crustacean
krill and algae. The key is to be informed. Read the ingredients
on supplement bottles to learn the source of the fatty acids,
and visit the producers’ websi