EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
A marine omega-3 for heart and mood.
What is EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)?
EPA is one of the long-chain marine omega-3 fatty acids, found mainly in oily fish and algae. It is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects and its role in heart health, and it is often studied alongside DHA for mood and triglyceride levels.
Health benefits of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
- Helps lower triglycerides and supports heart health
- Has anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body
- Studied for benefits to mood and mental health
- Works together with DHA from fish and algae
Top food sources of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
See full rankingSalmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, anchovies and algae oil. Values shown per 100 g.
Fish oil, menhaden
13,168 mg
Fish oil, salmon
13,023 mg
Fish oil, sardine
10,137 mg
Oil, bearded seal (Oogruk) (Alaska Native)
9,710 mg
Fish oil, cod liver
6,898 mg
Fish oil, herring
6,273 mg
Oil, spotted seal (Alaska Native)
3,930 mg
Oil, beluga, whale (Alaska Native)
2,800 mg
Fish, caviar, black and red, granular
2,741 mg
Fish, mackerel, salted
1,619 mg
Fish, roe, mixed species, cooked, dry heat
1,260 mg
Fish, herring, Pacific, cooked, dry heat
1,242 mg
How much EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) do you need?
There is no FDA Daily Value; many guidelines suggest two servings of oily fish a week to supply EPA and DHA.
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) deficiency
The body makes only small amounts from plant ALA, so low fish intake means low EPA; this can show up as dry skin and higher inflammation.
Nutrition data per 100 g from the USDA & FooDB databases. Daily Values follow the FDA 2016+ labeling standard for a 2,000-calorie diet. This guide is for general information and is not medical advice.
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Frequently asked questions
What does EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) do?
EPA is one of the long-chain marine omega-3 fatty acids, found mainly in oily fish and algae. It is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects and its role in heart health, and it is often studied alongside DHA for mood and triglyceride levels.
How much EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) do I need per day?
There is no FDA Daily Value; many guidelines suggest two servings of oily fish a week to supply EPA and DHA.
Which foods are highest in EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)?
Per 100 g, some of the richest sources are Fish oil, menhaden, Fish oil, salmon, Fish oil, sardine, Oil, bearded seal (Oogruk) (Alaska Native), Fish oil, cod liver.
What happens if I don't get enough EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)?
The body makes only small amounts from plant ALA, so low fish intake means low EPA; this can show up as dry skin and higher inflammation.