Frequently Asked Questions

Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. They play an important role in overall health, including heart, brain, and eye health, as well as supporting a healthy pregnancy. Since omega-3 fatty acids cannot be naturally produced by the body, consuming fish and seafood is recommended to ensure adequate intake.

EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart.

DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision.

Maternal intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) contributes to the normal visual development of the fetus and breastfed infants.

The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA.

In pregnant or breastfeeding women, the beneficial effect is achieved with an additional intake of omega-3 fatty acids on top of the recommended daily intake for adults (for example, 250 mg of DHA and EPA).

Plant-based omega-3 sources—such as flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, soybeans, and leafy green vegetables—provide alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA can be converted in the body into other omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, but this conversion is inefficient. The primary sources of EPA and DHA are marine foods. Relying solely on ALA may not be sufficient to meet daily omega-3 requirements. In fact, it would require consuming 4–5 times more ALA to obtain the necessary daily amount of EPA and DHA. For this reason, the most important omega-3 source is fish oil, which naturally contains EPA and DHA.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential nutrients required for the body to function properly. Since our bodies cannot produce these fatty acids, we must obtain them through our diet. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have many important functions in the body. However, due to their different biochemical effects, maintaining a balanced ratio between them is crucial.

In particular, omega-6 fatty acids play a role in inflammatory processes, and excessive intake may contribute to certain health problems. Omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, have anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate inflammation. Therefore, consuming omega-3 and omega-6 in balanced amounts is important.

Ideally, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids should be 4:1 or lower. For this reason, maintaining a healthy balance between omega-3 and omega-6 intake is essential for overall well-being.

Fish that live in cold and deep waters have higher fat levels to adapt to their environment, and therefore contain greater amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). When sourced seasonally from cold and deep-sea fish, they provide higher levels of omega-3 (EPA and DHA).

Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, are needed at every stage of life — starting from the prenatal period.

Norway has clean seawater and a long coastline that provide ideal conditions for sustainable aquaculture activities. In terms of developing aquaculture operations with advanced technological methods, Norway is among the world’s leaders. Aquaculture involves various processes that require multiple licenses.

Producers in Norway use advanced technology at every stage and are extremely meticulous about healthy fish development and food safety. When it comes to nutrition, Norway’s industry experts know exactly what fish need to grow strong and healthy.

Other fish may contain traces of PCBs and dioxins from their diet and natural environment. In contrast, the minimal contaminant levels found in Norway’s ocean-farmed fish are not harmful to consumers. This is due to the use of more controlled and carefully formulated feed.

The American Pregnancy Association recommends the use of omega-3 supplements during pregnancy. A baby’s development depends on fatty acids, and the mother must consume adequate amounts of omega-3. The need for omega-3 increases especially during the third trimester, as the baby requires DHA from the mother to support healthy brain development.

ISSFAL (The International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids) recommends a minimum daily intake of 300 mg of DHA throughout pregnancy.

According to EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority), a daily intake of 250 to 500 mg of EPA and DHA is recommended for adults. However, the required amount may vary depending on the individual's condition.

Omega-3 supplements are not medications. Fish oil has no known side effects; however, it may interact with blood-thinning medications. For this reason, if you are using blood thinners, consult your doctor. We also recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding individuals use supplements under medical supervision.

Since omega-3 fatty acids are not produced by the body, they must be obtained through diet. Individuals whose diet does not include foods rich enough in omega-3 fatty acids can regularly meet their omega-3 needs through continuous supplementation.

All stages of production for our fish oils — from raw material to packaging — take place in Norway, in some of the world’s best manufacturing facilities.

Ballstad Omega-3 capsules contain pure fish oil. They do not contain gluten.

The capsule of Ballstad Omega-3 is made from fish gelatin.

Ballstad Omega-3 is in the natural triglyceride form.

There is no strict rule regarding this. It is important to establish a routine so you don’t forget to take the supplement. We recommend taking it preferably with food.

Ballstad products are manufactured using carefully selected raw materials and undergo advanced purification and strict quality control processes. Each batch is tested for heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium. Test results consistently show levels far below internationally accepted safety limits, often close to undetectable.

Ballstad is produced in accordance with the high-quality standards set by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. IFOS alone does not constitute an official standard for the required properties of fish oils, and being a paid member of IFOS or any other organization does not indicate quality or privilege. Ballstad’s quality encompasses the entire production and control process using high-quality fish oil. For an omega-3 product to be sold by the manufacturer and imported, such approval is not required within the scope of the authorization granted by the ministry. In addition, it holds the “Made in Norway” certification.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is composed of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Collagen is a protein produced naturally in the body. After the age of 20, collagen levels begin to decline. With aging, the body's collagen renewal decreases by about 1–1.5% per year. By the age of 45, the body will have lost approximately 30% of its total collagen production. Smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to free radicals, sunlight, and UV rays also affect collagen production.

Collagen that has been broken down into smaller parts of amino acids is called collagen hydrolysate. In other words, through the hydrolysis process, large natural collagen molecules with high molecular weight are converted into smaller bioactive collagen peptides, which are referred to as hydrolyzed collagen peptides (collagen hydrolysate). This process makes collagen easier and faster for the body to digest.

It is a hydrolyzed fish collagen supplement that contains 5,000 mg of collagen hydrolysate in peptide form.

Ballstad Salmon Collagen contains type I fish collagen.

In general, clinical studies and experts recommend using it continuously for at least 8–12 weeks.

The effects of collagen may vary depending on genetic factors, diet, prolonged sun exposure, and factors such as smoking.

Adults are advised to consume 1 level tablespoon (5 grams) of the product once a day, at any time of the day. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake.

One package of Ballstad Collagen is intended for 1 month of use. With our monthly subscription system, we can ensure that your collagen supplement is delivered to your doorstep every month.

Store in a cool, dry place.

Ballstad Collagen is fish-based and 100% of Norwegian origin. It is derived from the skin of salmon.

Ballstad contains type I collagen with a molecular size of 2,200 daltons.

No side effects have been observed for collagen based on current research. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any concerns about using it, we recommend consulting your doctor first.

The collagen we use in Ballstad Salmon Collagen products has an almost neutral taste and is odorless. It contains no added flavoring. Since it does not alter the taste or smell, it can be safely added to any desired food or beverage.

Ballstad Collagen does not contain sugar, added flavoring, or artificial sweeteners.

With our subscription system, we ensure that your supplement is always available by delivering a new product to your door each month before your current one runs out. Our subscription model is both convenient and economical. Subscriptions can only be processed with credit cards.

You do not need to pay any fee other than the product price.

The Starter Package is an elegant set we recommend for your first order, and it comes with a special storage container and an informative brochure. Thanks to the storage container, you can enjoy your Omega-3 supplement with ease of carrying and without the capsules being damaged. For Salmon Collagen, a measuring spoon and a glass jar are included.

For your subsequent orders, you can choose the Refill Package, which contains only the capsules or collagen powder. The refill package is made of aluminum, is suitable for food storage, and has a resealable closure.