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And in animal studies, oxidized fatty acids have been found to cause organ damage, inflammation, and atherosclerosis, among other problems. At least two comparative studies to date show that consuming rancid fish oil can increase bad cholesterol levels. Many scientists also believe that consuming rancid fish oil may be harmful. Because oxidized omega-3 molecules have a different chemical shape and reactivity than their unoxidized fatty acid counterparts, they’re not able to carry out the same functions in the cell. Rancid Fish Oil Effects Are Cause for ConcernĪside from tasting and smelling bad, rancid fish oil is less effective than fresh fish oil. At that point, it’s simply a matter of time before the oil goes rancid and counteracts the benefits of omega-3 fish oil.Īny foods or supplements rich in omega-3s are vulnerable to spoiling quickly. But once an oil has started to oxidize, there is no going back. The rate at which the omega-3 molecules oxidize depends on a number of factors, including how the fish were harvested and the oil processed. These oxidation byproducts are what gives off the unpleasant smell and taste of spoiled fish. While this chemical structure makes the omega-3s extremely flexible and responsive in the cell, the same trait also explains why these fatty acids are so vulnerable to the effects of oxygen.Īs fish oil oxidizes, new byproducts begin to form in the oil called lipid peroxides, as well as harmful aldehydes and ketones. Known for their anti-inflammatory benefits, omega-3s are characterized by their large numbers of reactive double bonds. The reason fish and fish oil spoil quickly is that they are rich sources of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. Why Does Fish Oil Go Bad So Quickly?Īs seafood lovers know, fish spoils more easily than other foods if not kept cold or consumed quickly. If your current fish oil capsules smell fishy – or give you nauseating burps throughout day – you most likely have a rancid product on your hands. We put up with the unpleasant fish oil smell and taste because, well, it’s hard to argue with the benefits substantiated in thousands of research studies.īut the truth is that high quality omega-3 products shouldn’t taste like yesteryear’s salmon. Whether it’s from remembering Grandma’s cod liver oil or taking those horse-pills in the cupboard, most people believe that fish oil ought to taste bad. If your gut reaction is “yuck,” you are in good company. Please note that your refund will be subject to an $8.00 shipping fee if your total order was less than $25.00 or if your order was shipped outside the contiguous 48 states.Think about fish oil. Due to item availability, some replacements may be delayed or changed to a refund. Please allow 7 – 10 business days to receive your replacement product, if you have requested a replacement. Your refund will be processed to original payment method provided at time of purchase. Please allow 5 – 7 business days for your refund to process. We may also request that you return your product, although such return is not required in order for you to receive your refund or replacement. To receive your refund or replacement, please contact us or email us at For faster service, please have your order confirmation number and your original packaging available. This policy is only applicable for products purchased from us directly at If you purchased from a different retailer please refer directly to their return/refund policy. If you are not completely satisfied with your product, you may request a refund of your payment (less any applicable shipping fees) or a replacement within 30 days of receipt.
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