Frequently Asked Questions

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

What Is Omega-3?

Omega-3
is an essential fatty acid that supports heart, brain, and eye health. The body cannot produce Omega-3 on its own, so it must be obtained from food or supplements. The most effective forms are EPA and DHA, naturally found in fish oil.

Reference: EU Directive on Food Supplements (Directive 2002/46/EC) Link:http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2002/46/oj

Why Is Omega-3 Important?

EPA contributes to normal heart function, while DHA supports brain and vision health. During pregnancy, DHA is essential for fetal brain and eye development. Omega-3 also helps maintain normal triglyceride levels and supports overall inflammation balance.

Reference: ISSFAL and EFSA scientific opinions.

What is the difference between EPA, DHA,and ALA?

EPA and DHA are marine Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and are directly used by the body. ALA, found in plants like flaxseed, must be converted into EPA and DHA — but conversion is typically below 10%. This makes fish oil the most efficient source of Omega-3.
Reference: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements.

Is every fish rich in Omega-3?

No. Fatty cold‑water fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, and sardines contain the highest levels of EPA and DHA. Lean fish contain much less.
Reference: Norwegian Directorate of Health – Fish consumption guidelines
Link: https://www.helsedirektoratet.no

At what age should children take Omega-3?

Children can benefit from Omega-3 as soon as they begin eating solid foods. DHA supports normal brain and vision development, while EPA contributes to overall health. Always follow age appropriate dosing guidelines.

Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics.

Why is Norway a leader in Omega-3 supplements?

Norway has strict marine‑oil quality standards, advanced purification technology, and access to clean cold‑water fish. Mattilsynet monitors contaminants in marine oils annually.

Reference: Mattilsynet – Marine contaminant monitoring
Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women takeOmega-3?

Yes. DHA is essential for fetal brain and eye development. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consume 200–300 mg DHA daily. Ballstad Omega-3 is purified and safe for maternal use.

Reference: EFSA DHA pregnancy guidelines.

How much Omega-3 do I need daily?

Most adults need 250–500 mg EPA+DHA per day. Higher intakes may be recommended for heart health, pregnancy, professional atheltes or low dietary fish consumption. Ballstad Omega-3 provides a clinically relevant daily dose in three capsules.
Reference: EFSA and WHO recommendations.
Reference: EFSA Guidance on scientific principles for nutrient sources in supplements (2024 update)
Link: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/

Are there any side effects of taking Omega‑3 supplements?

Omega‑3 supplements are generally well tolerated. Mild effects like fishy aftertaste or digestive discomfort may occur. Safety is regulated under EU food supplement rules.

Reference: EU Food Supplements Directive

How long should I use an Omega‑3 supplement?

Omega‑3 works best when taken consistently over time. EFSA recognises EPA and DHA as nutrients that support long‑term heart, brain, and vision health.
Reference: EFSA nutrition claims

About Ballstad Omega-3

Where Is Ballstad Omega-3 Produced?

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.

Does the Ballstad Omega-3 supplement contain gluten?

No. Ballstad Omega‑3 is naturally gluten‑free. Fish oil and gelatin capsules do not contain gluten, and gluten is not permitted as a hidden additive in EU‑regulated food supplements.

Reference: EU Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC)

What is the capsule material of Ballstad Omega-3?

Ballstad Omega‑3 uses softgel capsules made from fish gelatin, not bovine or porcine gelatin. This ensures full marine origin and supports clean‑label transparency.

Reference: EU labelling rules for food supplements

In what form is Ballstad Omega-3?

Ballstad Omega-3 is in the natural triglyceride form.

At What Time of Day Should I Take Ballstad Omega-3?

You can take Ballstad Omega‑3 at any time of day, but taking it with a meal containing fat improves absorption. Consistency is more important than timing.
Reference: General EFSA guidance on nutrient absorption
Link: https://www.efsa.europa.eu

Is Ballstad Omega-3 safe?

Yes. Ballstad Omega-3 is purified, tested, and produced in Norway under strict quality standards. Every batch is screened for heavy metals, oxidation, and contaminants to ensure safety and freshness.
Reference: Norwegian Food Safety Authority guidelines.
Reference: Mattilsynet – Control of contaminants in fish (heavy metals, PFAS, dioxins) Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no/

Does Ballstad Omega-3 contain heavy metals?

No. Ballstad fish oil undergoes molecular distillation and third-party testing for mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium. All results fall well below EU and Norwegian safety limits.

Reference: EU Regulation 2023/915 on maximum contaminant levels in food (including fish) via Mattilsynet summary
Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no/

Do Ballstad products have IFOS certification?

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.

Is Ballstad Omega-3 suitable for vegans?

Ballstad Omega-3 is made from fish oil and is not vegan. Vegans may choose algae based DHA supplements, but these typically contain little or no EPA.

Is Ballstad Omega‑3 clinically proven to improve performance, recovery, and neurological function?

Yes. A peer‑reviewed 2025 study published in Nutrients found that supplementation with Ballstad Omega‑3 led to significant improvements in strength, recovery, inflammation markers, neurotransmitter levels, jump height, and agility in physically active adults. The study showed measurable increases in neuromuscular performance and reduced inflammation after 8 weeks of use.
Scientific Reference: Okut et al. (2025). Effects of Omega‑3 Supplementation on Neuromuscular Performance and Recovery in Physically Active Adults. Nutrients. Link: https://ballstad.global/blogs/ballstad-articles-and-blogs/ballstad-omega-3-clinically-proven-to-boost-strength-recovery-neurological-performance

Collagen

What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and supports skin elasticity, joints, bones, and connective tissue. Natural collagen production declines with age, which is why supplementation can help maintain firmness and mobility.
Reference: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

What does hydrolyzed collagen mean?

Hydrolyzed collagen (also called collagen peptides) is collagen that has been broken down into smaller molecules through enzymatic hydrolysis. These smaller peptides are easier for the body to absorb and are the form most commonly used in clinical studies showing benefits for skin elasticity, hydration, and joint health.
Reference: Clinical Interventions in Aging – Collagen peptide absorption study

What are the benefits of collagen?

Collagen supports skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, and contributes to healthy hair, nails, joints, bones, and connective tissue. Clinical studies show that daily collagen peptides can reduce wrinkle depth, improve skin smoothness, and support joint comfort. Collagen supplements are regulated as food supplements in the EU and must meet Norwegian safety standards.

About Ballstad Collagen

What type of collagen does Ballstad use?

Ballstad uses Type I hydrolysed marine collagen, the same type naturally found in skin, hair, and nails. It is sourced from Norwegian salmon and broken down into small peptides for optimal absorption. Marine ingredients in Norway are monitored for contaminants by Mattilsynet.
Reference: Mattilsynet contaminant monitoring in fish (annual reports)
Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no/

Is Ballstad Collagen safe?

Yes. Ballstad Collagen is produced in Norway from sustainably sourced salmon and tested for purity, heavy metals, and microbiological safety.

What is the usage recommendation for Ballstad Collagen?

Most studies show benefits at 5–10 grams per day. Ballstad Salmon Collagen provides a clinically supported daily dose designed for skin, hair, and joint support.

When should I take Ballstad Collagen?

You can take collagen at any time of day. It can be mixed into water, juice, smoothies, or warm drinks. Consistency is more important than timing, as benefits come from daily use. Reference: General EFSA nutrient absorption guidance
Link: https://www.efsa.europa.eu

How long does one package of Ballstad Collagen last?

One package typically lasts 30 days when used according to the recommended daily serving.

Where should I store Ballstad Collagen?

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Norwegian and EU regulations require supplements to be stored in conditions that preserve quality and safety.
Reference: Mattilsynet – Storage and handling of food supplements
Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no

Where is the collagen in Ballstad Collagen obtained from?

The collagen is sourced from wild‑caught Norwegian fish. Norway is known for strict marine ingredient quality standards and annual contaminant monitoring.
Reference: Mattilsynet – Marine contaminant monitoring
Link: https://www.mattilsynet.no

What is the dalton size of the collagen in the Ballstad Collagen product?

Ballstad Collagen uses low‑molecular‑weight peptides, typically around 2,000–5,000 Daltons, which supports better absorption. Clinical studies show that smaller peptides are more bioavailable.

Are there any side effects?

Collagen is generally well tolerated. Mild digestive discomfort may occur in sensitive individuals. Collagen supplements are regulated under EU food supplement rules and must meet strict purity and safety standards.
Reference: EU Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC)

What is the taste and smell of Ballstad Collagen like?

Ballstad Collagen is neutral in taste and smell, making it easy
to mix into drinks or food without altering flavor.

Does Ballstad Collagen contain sugar or sweeteners?

No. Ballstad Collagen is 100% pure Salmon Collagen with no sugar, sweeteners, flavors, or additives.

Shipping & Delivery

Where does Ballstad ship from?

All orders are either shipped from Norway or our warehouses in Germany, Singapore and Thailand depending on where the order will be delivered to. Delivery times vary by region, with most European orders arriving within 3–7 business days.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. Ballstad ships worldwide. Shipping costs and delivery times depend on the destination and will be shown at checkout.

How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you will receive a tracking link by email. You can follow your package in real time until delivery.

Subscription

How does the Ballstad subscription work?

Subscriptions deliver your products automatically at your chosen interval. You can pause, skip, or cancel anytime. Subscribers also receive exclusive discounts and priority access to new products.

Can I change or cancel my subscription?

Yes. You can modify delivery frequency, skip a shipment, or cancel your subscription at any time through your account dashboard or by contact the Ballstad Customer Service.

Ballstad Brand

What is the difference between the Ballstad Starter Package and the Refill Package — and which should I choose?

The Starter Package includes a reusable Ballstad storage container designed to keep your product protected from light, moisture, and heat. The Refill Package contains only the product in a low‑waste pouch. Choose the Starter Package if it’s your first time ordering; choose the Refill Package for ongoing use to reduce packaging waste.

Where is Ballstad produced?

Ballstad Omega-3 and Collagen are produced in Norway using high-quality fish ingredients. All products follow strict Norwegian and EU safety standards.

What makes Ballstad different?

Ballstad combines Norwegian purity, clean label formulas, and science backed dosages. All products are free from fillers, artificial additives, and unnecessary ingredients. Every batch is tested for quality and traceability.

Are Ballstad products clean-label?

Yes. Ballstad uses single ingredient, clean-label formulations with no fillers, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives.