ConsumerLab Finds Some Spoilage and Inaccuracy Among Omega-3 And 6 Supplements
White Plains NY, 7 August 2002

ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of health and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Black Current, Borage, Evening Primrose, and Flaxseed Oils: Sources of ALA and GLA (Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids). ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) are essential fatty acids. ALA can be used by the body to make other omega-3 fatty acids, including those found in fish oils. GLA may be useful in treating diseases that involve pain and inflammation, including cyclic mastalgia -- breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle. Later this month, the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies is expected to release recommendations on intake levels of fatty acids.

Only nineteen of the twenty-five products that ConsumerLab.com tested passed the review. Four products were low in an omega-6 fatty acid known as linoleic acid. Two others had elevated peroxide levels -- indicating spoilage -- one of which claimed vitamin E as an ingredient, an antioxidant that is supposed to prevent spoilage. Rancid products may have an unpleasant taste or odor, may not be as effective due to degradation, and contain chemicals called peroxides and aldehydes that can potentially damage cells and even encourage cholesterol to clog arteries.

The list of products that passed ConsumerLab.com's testing, as well as information on buying and using these products, are now available at www.consumerlab.com. The website provides reviews of 36 important vitamins, minerals, herbal and non-herbal supplements, and of nutrition bars, powders, and drinks. Also available are product recalls, warnings, and a natural products encyclopedia. New reviews scheduled for release soon include garlic, probiotics, and sexual enhancement supplements. ConsumerLab.com's Guide to Buying the Best Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements will be available in bookstores later this year.

ConsumerLab.com is a leading provider of consumer information and independent evaluations of health and nutrition products. The company is privately held and based in White Plains, New York. It has no ownership from, or interest in, companies that manufacture, distribute, or sell consumer products. Individual subscription to ConsumerLab.com is available online.

Source

ConsumerLab.com, LLC.