Where to Buy Salmon Oil Your Guide to Finding Quality and Affordable Options
Salmon oil has become an increasingly popular supplement in recent years due to its many potential health benefits. Derived from wild salmon, salmon oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which have been linked to improved heart, brain, eye, and joint health.
With the rising popularity of salmon oil, more options have become available on the market. But not all salmon oil products are created equal when it comes to quality, sustainability, and price. This article will explore the different places you can buy salmon oil and things to look out for when making your purchasing decision.
Online Retailers
One of the most convenient ways to buy salmon oil is through online retailers like Amazon, iHerb, Vitacost, and Swanson Health. The benefit of online shopping is the wide selection and ability to compare prices easily. However, it’s important to vet the retailer and read reviews before purchasing, as quality can vary drastically amongst brands.
When buying salmon oil online, check that the product is purified and has third party certifications like Friend of the Sea or the Marine Stewardship Council. This ensures the oil is sustainably sourced from healthy, wild salmon populations. The oil should also be molecularly distilled to remove toxins and contaminants.
Many quality salmon oil brands available through online retailers include Vital Choice, Sports Research, WHC UnoCardio, and Nutrigold. Expect to pay $30-$60 for a one month supply. While buying online is convenient, the prices may be marked up compared to other options.
Health Food Stores
Health food stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Earth Fare have a decent selection of salmon oil brands. A benefit of buying in store is you can ask questions and get guidance from knowledgeable staff members. They may be able to recommend a high quality brand carried at that location.
The availability and prices will vary amongst health food stores. But expect to pay around $25-$50 for a month’s supply of salmon oil softgels or liquid. One downside is health food stores tend to have limited options compared to what you’ll find from online retailers.
Direct from Manufacturer
Purchasing salmon oil directly from the manufacturer cuts out the middleman and retail markups. Brands like Vital Choice and WHC UnoCardio sell their salmon oil direct to consumers through their websites. This allows them to offer very competitive pricing compared to other retailers.
When you buy direct, you can be assured of the quality and purity since you’re getting it straight from the source. Be on the lookout for specials, bundle deals, and subscription discounts that can maximize your savings. The only potential drawback is limited selection to what that particular brand offers.
Warehouse Stores
Popular warehouse stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s sometimes carry private label or name brand salmon oil. This can be a budget-friendly option to buy in bulk at lower unit prices. However, the selection is usually minimal.
If you find salmon oil at a warehouse store, inspect the label closely. Make sure the oil is sustainably sourced from wild Alaskan or Norwegian salmon. Unfortunately, warehouse store brands are more likely to contain lower quality farmed salmon oil.
Grocery Stores
Major grocery store chains may stock a salmon oil option or two, usually in the vitamin aisle. This is convenient if you want to buy salmon oil along with your regular groceries. But the selection will be very limited compared to other options.
Expect to pay a premium for the convenience of buying at a grocery store, where prices tend to be higher. The quality may also be inferior to brands found at health food stores or online. Check labels carefully and avoid grocery store brands using farmed salmon oil.
Subscription Services
Joining a salmon oil subscription service can net you recurring discounts and maximize savings. Brands like Vital Choice and Sports Research offer auto-ship subscription options. You get locked-in low pricing with periodic shipments sent straight to your door.
Subscriptions help take the thought out of reordering. You’ll save time and can rest assured a fresh bottle will arrive before you run out. Just be sure to set calendar reminders to evaluate if you want to modify or cancel the subscription to avoid getting overstocked.
Buy in Bulk Online
Purchasing bulk sizes of salmon oil from online suppliers like Bulk Supplements and PureFormulas can provide major cost savings. For example, a 16oz bulk bottle may supply 2-4 months for around the same price as a one month supply in capsules.
The bulk oil can then be taken straight or added to smoothies, shakes, and salad dressings. Be aware that buying in bulk means you need adequate storage space. And the oil may need to be refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness.
Multi-Bottle Packs
Many salmon oil brands offer multi-bottle packs with increasing discounts based on quantity. For instance, a pack of 3 or 6 bottles may retail for 15-20% less per bottle compared to buying a single. This can add up, especially if salmon oil is taken daily by your entire family.
One thing to be cautious of is only ordering the amount that can be used while the oil is still fresh. Salmon oil can start oxidizing and losing potency around the 6 month mark after opening. Buying more than can be consumed may lead to waste if the oil expires before finishing.
International Online Stores
Certain online stores based overseas can offer cheaper pricing on salmon oil compared to domestic options. For instance, iHerb ships internationally from their warehouses in the US and Asian countries. Brands may be up to 25% less when buying through their international sites.
Be aware that shopping internationally can have longer shipping times and potential added fees for customs, duties, and taxes. Review the store’s shipping policies carefully beforehand. And make sure the lower prices justify any extra effort required on your part.
The Bottom Line
Salmon oil can readily be found through a multitude of sources. With a quality product being the top priority, also weigh factors like convenience, price, sustainability, selection and quantity discounts. Your individual needs will determine whether buying online, in stores, directly, or in bulk makes the most sense.
Doing a little homework can go a long way in finding an affordable salmon oil option that provides all the benefits of this nutritional powerhouse supplement. With so many ways to buy, you can feel confident there’s a purchasing method to meet your budget and lifestyle.
FAQ
Who should not take salmon oil?
Certain conditions may make fish oil harmful to you. People who are allergic to fish, shellfish, or soybeans should not consume fish oil. The safety of fish oil is not known in cases of pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Avoid fish oil consumption if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Is Omega oil and salmon oil the same?
Omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil are not exactly the same, but they overlap. While fish oil is one source of omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA, they aren’t the only source of these nutrients. Furthermore, the other and only essential omega-3, ALA, is predominantly found in plant foods and converted to the other two.
How much salmon oil should a human take daily?
Many doctors often recommend 1000 to 1200 mg of fish oil, because that amount of fish oil contains the total amount of Omega-3s the doctor wants you to consume.
What salmon oil do vets recommend?
Vets Preferred Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs – Skin and Coat – Premium Omega 3 Fish Oil for Healthy Dog Coat – Immune Support and Heart Health – All Natural – Rich in EPA and DHA.