The 6 Best Vegan Omega-3 Supplements to Improve Your Health and Wellness in 2024

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Vegan athletes need the right nutrition to stay in top form. However, cutting all animal products from your diet means you must be intentional about getting key dietary nutrients like B12, calcium and the long-chain fatty acids known as omega-3s.

Omega-3 supports the healthy function of your heart, blood vessels, lungs, immune system and endocrine system—all very important for physical health and activity. Also, some studies show that those who consume more omega-3s may have a lower risk of certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, depression and age-related loss of vision, though results are mixed and more research is needed.

Your body can’t make these fats, so you have to get them from your diet or supplements. That’s where vegan omega-3 supplements come into play. In this article, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant reviews the best vegan omega-3 supplements on the market in 2024, and explains the health benefits of omega-3s, plus tips for getting the most out of your supplement.

This content is meant to be informative but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best Vegan Omega-3 Supplements in 2024:

• Calgee Sustainable Vegan Omega-3 
• Future Kind Vegan Omega-3
• Ritual Essential for Women 18+ Multivitamin
• Nordic Naturals Algae DHA
• Freshfield Vegan Omega-3 DHA + DPA
• Sports Research Vegan Omega-3 
• Vegan Vitality Vegan Omega 3

Calgee Sustainable Vegan Omega-3

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 550 milligrams
• Source: Sustainably sourced algae
• Nutrition facts: 8 calories per serving
• Certifications: Third-party tested, certified vegan, certified climate-neutral 
• Subscription: Subscribe and save 20%
• Key ingredients: Omega-3 Fatty Acid, Omega-6 Fatty Acid, EPA and DHA
• Best for: Anyone looking for an environmentally conscious supplement brand. Those looking for a supplement that is free of additives.
• Price per serving: $1.00 ($0.80 for subscribers)

Calgee’s mission is to improve our health and the health of our planet. Its Sustainable Vegan Omega-3 is a plant-based omega-3 supplement. It’s sourced using algae grown in an indoor facility in North Carolina, which promotes sustainability and helps protect marine ecosystems. Since these supplements are made with algae rather than fish, Calgee says they don’t leave you with an unpleasant fishy aftertaste. Each serving contains 450 milligrams of EPA, which promotes heart health and DHA, which benefits brain health.

With Calgee, you can rest assured that there’s no added junk in your omega-3 supplement. These soft gels are free of carrageenan, an additive commonly used to thicken supplements, which research says may lead to inflammation. Calgee Sustainable Vegan Omega-3 supplements are also gluten-free, non-GMO, certified vegan and third-party tested.

What we like:

• Carrageenan-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, certified vegan
• Third-party tested for quality and consistency and certificate of analysis readily available on the company’s website
• High concentration of DHA and EPA per serving
• Free of major allergens such as nuts, soy and corn

What to consider:

• High price per serving compared to other supplements on our list
• Only contains 30 servings, whereas other supplements on our list contain 45 or 60 servings

Future Kind Vegan Omega-3

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 275 milligrams
• Source: Deep sea algae grown in fermentation tanks in a clean, controlled environment
• Nutrition facts: 0 calories
• Certifications: Certified B Corp, Certified 100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free by the Vegan Society
• Subscription: Every 30 days, 20% savings
• Key ingredients: Omega-6 fatty acids and Omega-3 fatty acids
• Best for: Individuals with food allergies; People who like citrusy orange flavors
• Price per serving: $0.50 ($0.40 for subscribers)

Future Kind is an earth-conscious, 100 percent vegan line. Its Vegan Omega-3 is a pollutant-free, algae-derived form of sustainably sourced omega-3s and omega-6s, enhanced with vitamin D3. Studies suggest that omega-3 and D3 support brain health, are reduce cancer risk and protect the heart when taken together.

Future Kind Omega-3 is non-GMO, gluten-free and free of sugar, dairy, eggs, soy and nuts, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The recommended dose is one softgel per day. Adults and kids aged 11 and up enjoy the orange-scented, flavored capsules, and Amazon reviews average 4.5/5 stars.

What we like:

• 100 percent recyclable packaging
• Citrus-orange flavor
• Easy-to-swallow softgel
• Free of major food allergens

What to consider:

• Doesn’t disclose lab that performs third-party testing
• Not for use by pregnant or nursing mothers

Ritual Essential for Women 18+ Multivitamin

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 330 milligrams
• Source: Fermentation of whole microalgae (Schizochytrium spp.) in Saskatoon, Canada
• Nutrition facts: 0 calories
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, USP Verified, Certified B Corp, gluten and soy free
• Subscription: Monthly, save with free shipping
• Key ingredients: Folate, vitamin B-12, vitamin D, iron, vitamin K2, boron, vitamin E, magnesium
• Best for: Premenopausal women, those following a restrictive diet or with unusual eating habits; women with joint pain, autoimmune diseases or family history of heart disease
• Price per serving: $1.10

Based in Los Angeles, Ritual has made a name for itself as a subscription-based vitamin brand. Ritual’s Essential is the best women’s vegan omega-3 because it is blended with eight other nutrients women typically fall short on (including D3). Better still, it’s backed by clinical research. In a 12-week clinical trial of premenopausal women, Essential for Women increased Omega-3 DHA levels by 41 percent over a placebo.

Essential for Women 18+ is USP Verified, Non-GMO Project Verified and tested for identity, purity and strength so you can trust what’s on the label. The recommended dose is two capsules daily. Some users said it caused “fishy burps,” but reviews on the website average 4.2 stars. Users rave about the mint essenced aesthetic vitamin—filled with beadlets suspended in oil for slow release.

What we like:

• Backed by a clinical trial
• Traceable sourcing
• Patented beadlet in oil technology
• 30-day money-back guarantee

What to consider:

• High price point
• No customer service by phone

Nordic Naturals Algae DHA

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 500 milligrams
• Source: Sustainable marine microalgae (Schizochytrium spp.)
• Nutrition facts: 10 calories, 1 gram of fat
• Certifications: Certified 100 percent vegetarian by the American Vegetarian Association, Non-GMO, hexane-free, gluten and dairy free
• Subscription: 60- or 90-day subscription, 10% savings with free shipping
• Key ingredients: Triglyceride omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), natural mixed tocopherols (vitamin E)
• Best for: Men with low testosterone, especially overweight and obese men; those who want better mood and memory
• Price per serving: $0.93

Nordic Naturals makes a wide range of supplements for nutrition, including fish oils, algal oil, vitamins and minerals. The best vegan omega-3 for men is Nordic Naturals Algae DHA, which combines pure, concentrated vegan DHA with D3 for maximum absorption. DHA is essential for men’s health because it can help form healthy semen and strong sperm. DHA can also turn into testosterone, directly affecting muscle mass and sexual drive.

A QR code on each box links to the product’s Certificate of Analysis, allowing you to be confident in what you’re putting into your body, and that this algae omega-3 is devoid of GMOs and allergens. The suggested daily intake is two softgels. Algae DHA may have a little seaweed aftertaste, yet online reviews on the brand's website give it 4.2 stars on average.

What we like:

• According to the brand's website, it's the number one omega-3 in US and sold in 35 countries worldwide
• Pure, concentrated DHA
• Sustainably sourced
• Verified quality

What to consider:

• Not carrageenan-free

Freshfield Vegan Omega-3 DHA + DPA

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 500 milligrams
• Source: Microalgae omega-3 oil
• Nutrition facts: 10 calories, 1 gram fat
• Certifications: Vegan Certified by VegeCert, Plastic Neutral Certified, Certified Climate Neutral by Climate Partner, Free of GMOs, gluten, shellfish, eggs, dairy, peanuts, fish and tree nuts.
• Subscription: Not available
• Key ingredients: 225 milligrams of DHA and 35 milligrams of Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) with tocopherols (vitamin E) in each capsule
• Best for: Vegans and anyone with seafood allergies who may not get enough DHA and DPA in their diets
• Price per serving: $0.42

Vegan Omega-3 DHA + DPA from Freshfield is one of the best vegan omega-3 because it's more potent than others on the market, thanks to DPA. The lesser-known omega-3 fatty acid can be changed into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA as needed—meaning that supplements containing DPA may help raise DHA levels faster.

Freshfield is a Canadian brand with eye-catching, artsy labels. Vegan Omega-3 DHA+DPA is certified vegan and is free of GMOs, gluten, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Freshfield is also an eco-friendly line that is Certified Carbon Neutral. The daily dose of Vegan Omega-3 DHA+DPA is one capsule for general health benefits or two capsules for brain and eye health. Freshfield DHA + DPA has averaged a 4.7-star rating from over 9,000 Amazon reviews.

What we like:

• Contains DPA to boost DHA and EPA levels
• Compostable, plant-based bottle
• Affordable

What to consider:

• May contain soy

Sports Research Vegan Omega-3

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 770 milligrams
• Source: Fermented from natural algae
• Nutrition facts: 15 calories, 1.5 grams fat
• Certifications: Non-GMO Tested by I-Gen, Certified Vegan by Vegan.org, gluten-free, kosher, manufactured by a GMP-certified facility, third-party tested by an undisclosed lab
• Subscription: 30-, 60- or 90-day interval, 15% savings with free shipping
• Key ingredients: 420 milligrams DHA, 210 milligrams EPA, 140 milligrams other omega-3s
• Best for: Athletes, gymnasts, cyclists, bodybuilders and other health enthusiasts looking for a potent and high-quality omega-3; also anyone with food allergies
• Price per serving: $0.81

Based on potency and quality, Sports Research Vegan Omega-3 is our top pick for the best omega-3 for athletes. It contains a whopping 770 milligrams of EPA, DHA, and other fatty acids in triglyceride form (rather than ethyl ester form) for up to 48 percent greater absorption. Moreover, this omega-3 is formulated in Plantgel—the only softgels on the market to pass the stringent Non-GMO Project Verified certification. It’s also kosher and Certified Vegan. Buyers can view Certificates of Analysis on the Sports Research website using the “Track Your Lot” feature.

The suggested dose is two softgels daily with a meal. The product should be stored in a cool place and used promptly. Online reviews from popular supplement stores are near perfect—4.6 stars on Amazon for this supplement.

What we like:

• Non-GMO
• Easier to swallow size
• Triglyceride form of omega-3s

What to consider:

• Store in a cool, dry location

Vegan Vitality Vegan Omega-3

Key features and specs:

• Omega-3s per serving: 600 milligrams
• Source: Farmed directly from algae
• Nutrition facts: 9 calories, <1 gram fat, <1 gram carbohydrate
• Certifications: Non-GMO, sugar-free, nut- and dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free
• Subscription: Not offered through the brand’s website
• Key ingredients: 300 milligrams DHA, 1.8 milligrams vitamin E (dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate)
• Best for: Anyone allergic to fish or soy, even non-vegans
• Price per serving: $0.27

Vegan Vitality is one of Europe’s leading vegan supplement brands, made in the US at GMP facilities. Vegan Vitality Vegan Omega-3 delivers a high dose of DHA with vitamin E without ingredients you don’t need, such as sugars, artificial additives, colors and preservatives. Anyone with food sensitivities knows that finding an allergen-free vegan supplement can be hard. Fortunately, Sports Research Vegan Omega-3 is also made without soy, nuts and gluten.

Not only is Vegan Vitality Vegan Omega 3 a quality product, but it is also affordable—the least expensive on our list. The recommended dose is just one pill daily, with breakfast, lunch or dinner. Customers have left high praise online for Vegan Vitality, with 4.9 stars on Ebay and 4.6 on Amazon.

What we like:

• Great value compared to other brands
• Non-GMO and hypo-allergenic
• Tasteless
• Easy-to-swallow torpedo shape and smooth surface

What to consider:

• Not a good source of EPA
• Contains a synthetic form of vitamin E

What Is Omega-3?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of “healthy fat.” Your body uses polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, to build and maintain cells and organs like the heart, eyes and brain. These molecules can also be broken down and used for energy.

Scientists have found at least 11 different types of omega-3 fats. But here’s the deal, most supplements label the three most popular forms, which are:

• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from vegetable oils, nuts, some vegetables and animal fat.
• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) from marine sources such as fish.
• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from fish and marine life.

Omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids (EFAs) because our bodies cannot make them. We need to get them from our diet or a good supplement.

Benefits of Vegan Omega-3

Omega-3 fats acids are powerhouses that can supercharge your health and well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to:

• Support heart health and a healthy cardiovascular system.
• Boost brain function and cognitive performance.
• Fight inflammation and reduce joint pain.
• Enhance mood and could help alleviate anxiety and depression.
• Maintains good eyesight and prevents age-related vision problems.
• Improves skin health for a radiant glow.
• Supports muscle recovery and reduces exercise-induced soreness.
• It may improve sleep quality and overall restfulness.

Omega-3s deliver an impressive range of health benefits to keep you at the top of your game.

According to Barbara Kovalenko, RD and nutrition consultant at Lasta Fasting, certain groups can benefit from adding omega-3 supplements to their routine. “Pregnant and breastfeeding women may benefit from omega-3s as they support fetal brain and eye development,” says Kovalenko. “Also, individuals with cardiovascular risks, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol could potentially see lower triglyceride levels and better heart health. Moreover, omega-3s improve the diversity of gut bacteria, which is key to overall health.”

People who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle should be mindful of getting enough omega-3s, which are either absent or less prevalent in plant foods.

Vegan Omega-3 vs. Fish Oil Omega-3 Supplements

Algae-based vegan omega-3s and fish oil supplements offer similar nutrition. Here’s a look at how they stack up.

Vegan omega-3 supplements

• Source: Vegan omega-3s are plant-powered. Some are derived from flaxseed oils, chia seeds or other plant sources.
• Sustainability: Algae-based supplements come from sustainable algae farming. They are considered more eco-friendly since they discourage overfishing and preserve ocean life. Algal oil is also free from contaminants (like dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)), heavy metals (i.e., mercury) and pollutants often found in fish-based supplements.
• Omega-3 types: Algae-based supplements often provide both EPA and DHA—the dynamic duo we need for brain and heart health.
• Allergen-friendly: These supplements are ideal for people allergic to fish or anyone who prefers a fish-free option.

Fish oil supplements

• Source: Traditional fish oil supplements are made from fatty fish, like salmon, anchovies and sardines.
• Omega-3 types: Fish oil typically provides both EPA and DHA.
• Concentration: Fish oil can have higher concentrations of EPA and DHA than algae-based supplements.
• Taste and aftertaste: Fish oil products often have a strong fishy or oily aftertaste.

Kovalenko, a registered dietitian, says that the fishy odor is a major problem for some. “Those who have never tried real fish oil may not understand its strong fishy smell, which can be off-putting to many individuals and stop them from taking it,” she says. “In those cases, a vegan option for omega-3 oil is a savior, offering a fish-free alternative that is more palatable for anyone with an aversion to the fishy aroma.”

So, which one is best for you? It all depends on your preferences and nutritional choices. If you’re vegetarian and environmentally conscious, algae-based omega-3s could be your perfect fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher concentration of omega-3s and don’t mind a fishy taste, fish oil could be the right match. “Ultimately, the decision should be based on a client’s dietary preferences and any specific health considerations,” says Kovalenko.

If you’re looking for the best plant-based omega-3 supplement, plenty of options are available on the market today.

How to Choose the Best Vegan Omega-3 for You

Finding the best vegan omega-3 supplement can be a daunting task. With so many possibilities, it’s important to read labels carefully and do your research—online or by talking to people like friends and family, your healthcare providers or even experts at your local nutrition store.

Follow these seven steps to choose the best plant-based omega-3 option for you.

1. Find a plant-based source. When browsing the shelves, check the labels for vegan-friendly sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as algae oil. Look for capsules made of pectin, which is plant-based, rather than gelatin, which may come from animal sources.
2. Look for DHA vs. EPA. According to the Functional Neurology Center, EPA is a powerful anti-inflammatory, while DHA has been linked to enhanced brain function. Choose a product with your health goals in mind. An EPA to DHA ratio of 1:1 or 2:1 may be better for heart health. Meanwhile, to ease depression symptoms, an EPA to DHA ratio of 3:1 or 4:1 may be better.
3. Inspect for quality. Consider brands with a solid reputation for quality. Pick labels that have been tested or certified by a third party. These companies may have higher standards and produce premium products.
4. Read the dosage and serving size. Take note of the dose and servings. Some dietary supplements call for multiple capsules daily, while others require one. Choose a schedule that’s suitable for your daily routine and preferences.
5. Read the reviews and listen to what others say about a supplement. Online reviews can give you a sense of what the product is like in the real world.
6. Count the cost. Value matters! Compare prices and servings per bottle to get a bang for your buck without skimping on quality.
7. Talk to your doctor. Before adding a food supplement to your regimen, check with your doctor or a certified nutritionist, especially if you have any underlying health concerns or are taking medications.

In addition, product availability, product guarantees and shipping time if ordering online can sway you towards one brand over another.

What to Avoid in a Vegan Omega-3

There are a few red flags to avoid in a vegan omega-3. Steer clear of unwanted ingredients, like artificial colors, preservatives, fillers and added sugars. Don’t forget to read the other ingredients at the bottom, and avoid supplements that don’t clearly show the omega-3 source, type and amount of omega-3s per serving.

Kovalenko also warns that certain individuals should be mindful of allergens that could trigger sensitivities you have. “Of course, people with fish or seafood allergies should avoid fish oil supplements,” she says. “But vegan sources like algae can be a safer alternative for these individuals.”

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Vegan Omega-3 Supplements

We understand the gravity of making the right decisions for your body and nutrition. We researched the best science-backed vegan omega-3 supplements on the market, taking quality, ingredients and safety into mind. We evaluated the pros and cons of each supplement, including price, taste and availability.

We also talked with nutrition experts to ensure we made the right determinations. We wanted to give an honest opinion of each dietary supplement, so we also considered user reviews and feedback. Finally, we double-checked all our sources to ensure we had the most up-to-date information.

Vegan Omega-3 Food Sources

Kovalenko says algal oil is one of the top vegan omega-3 food sources. “For vegans seeking omega-3 from whole foods, excellent sources include algae-derived foods, chia seeds, flaxseeds (ground), hemp seeds and walnuts.” The Physicians Committee on Responsible Medicine offers these recommendations to get enough omega-3s from a vegan diet.

• Add a tablespoon of flaxseed to your meal and get 2.4 grams of omega-3s.
• Enjoy one ounce of chia seeds for 5 grams of omega-3s per serving.
• One ounce of walnuts offers 2.6 grams per serving.
• Half a cup of edamame contains 0.28 grams of omega-3s.

These vegan sources of omega-3 can help you reach your body’s ALA, DHA and EPA fatty acids needs.

Vegan Omega-3 Supplement FAQs

Are vegan omega-3 supplements anti-inflammatory?

Yes. Vegan omega-3 supplements, specifically those high in EPA derived from algal oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.

How long does it take for vegan omega-3 to work?

Several studies have shown that using omega-3 fatty acids for more than six weeks can cause measurable changes in the blood and body composition. The length of time will vary depending on a person’s health status and the desired benefits.

What time of day should I take vegan omega-3 supplements?

While no specific time of day is universally recommended for taking vegan omega-3 supplements, it is best to take them with a meal.

How much vegan omega-3 should I take per day?

ALA is the only form of omega-3 that has specific recommendations from the Institute of Medicine. The recommended daily intake of ALA is 1,600 milligrams daily for adult males and 1,100 grams per day for adult females. The IOM has not set specific intake recommendations for EPA, DHA, or the other omega-3s.

At the same time, recent studies back show a sensible recommendation to be 1,000–1,500 milligrams of EPA and DHA omega-3s daily in the triglyceride form.

What are the symptoms of omega-3 deficiency in vegans?

Vegans who are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids may experience the following:

• Dry, scaly skin
• Brittle nails
• Extreme thirst
• Mood swings
• Poor attention
• Exhaustion

In extreme cases, individuals can experience cardiovascular issues or diminished memory due to a lack of omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re feeling any symptoms, its important to talk to your doctor before starting to take any new supplement.

Takeaway: Is Taking a Vegan Omega-3 Worth It?

A vegan omega-3 supplement may be the solution if you want better mental health, less discomfort and protection for your muscles, heart and joint health. Vegan omega-3 pills, made from algae, are an excellent alternative to standard fish-based omega-3 supplements. They are available in convenient capsule form and can be readily introduced to your normal diet.

As not all omega-3 supplements are created equal, it’s key to do your research and pick the best vegan omega-3 supplement for your needs. With the right product, you can get the essential nutrients you need to maintain optimal health.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.