What is the TOTOX value of my omega-3?

TOTOX value stands for “TOTAL OXIDATION value”. This value represents the extent to which omega-3 oil from fish or algae has been oxidized. Omega-3 contains the fatty acids EPA and DHA, which contain many unsaturated compounds and are extremely sensitive to oxidation. The higher the TOTOX, the more the oil is oxidized: Oxidation is a reaction with oxygen. The fishy (rancid) smell of a fish that you have left lying around for too long is the result of oxidation, or for example the residual smell on your fingers if you ate a herring by the tail! The higher the purity or concentration of omega-3 in an oil, the more sensitive the oil is to oxidation and the faster that oxidation will take place.

Is the TOTOX value an indicator of freshness?

Freshness is often mentioned in the same breath as the TOTOX value. The lower the TOTOX value, the fresher the oil. This sounds good and appeals to marketers, but it is not necessarily correct. The suggestion is made that fish or algae oil with low TOTOX came to you directly from the boat or from the fermentation vessel. “Direct from the farmer to your plate”. After all, low TOTOX means less rancid. And less rancidity is associated with fresh fish. That can, but certainly does not have to be the case. The TOTOX value of “old” oil can also be improved through proper processing. A lower TOTOX means a significantly less fishy taste and leads to less burping and regurgitation of a fishy smell.

How do you measure the TOTOX value?

The TOTOX value is determined in a laboratory and the calculated value is a result of 2 different measurements: TOTOX value = (2x Peroxide value) + 1x Anisidine value The Peroxide value represents the primary oxidation and the Anisidine value represents the secondary oxidation. During primary oxidation, odorless peroxides are formed. During secondary oxidation, these are further converted into rancid components. The outcome of both measurements and the calculated TOTOX value are stated on the analysis certificate of the oil used. The TOTOX value deteriorates during processing of the oil because there is again a risk of exposure to oxygen and temperature. The really good brands also take extra measurements on the final supplement in capsule or bottle and can provide an analysis certificate associated with your specific supplement.

What are the main causes of oxidation?

Air (oxygen) – the oil must be protected under nitrogen, argon or carbon dioxide during the entire processing of fish or algae into capsule. Temperature – oxidation takes place faster at higher temperatures. Every 10 degrees the oxidation rate increases by a factor of 2 or 3. Light – oxidation takes place under the influence of light. The WHC concentrates are produced using patented processes at extremely low temperatures (often below zero) under constant protection by inert gases. Did you know that we do not supply you with supplements if the expected outside temperature is above 25 degrees! Then you now understand why that is. Most production and processing takes place indoors. The greatest risk of light exposure from your omega-3 supplement is at home, if your omega-3 products are not stored in a cool, dark place.

What is the international standard for the TOTOX value of fish oil?

The European guideline for the TOTOX value is 30. The GOED (the Global Organization for EPA & DHA) guideline is a maximum of 26. And the IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards) guideline is a maximum of 19.5. WHC always strives to offer the best quality to its doctors and therapists and strives for a maximum of 10, making it the world leader in highly concentrated omega-3. All WHC fish oil capsules are certified by IFOS . WHC fish and algae oil is the world leader in the highest concentrated omega-3. As a result, we are also experts in preventing and limiting oxidation. The TOTOX value of WHC's fish and algae oil capsules is closely monitored and measured. The final TOTOX value of the WHC fish and algae oil is around 8.

Low TOTOX means better taste and fewer flavors

A low TOTOX means less or no fishy taste. As a result, fewer or even no flavorings are needed to disguise the high TOTOX. It also means that you can also use the oil from the capsule or bottle in yogurt, smoothie or shake. It is virtually odorless and tasteless.

What is actually the TOTOX value of your omega-3 capsules?

Is the TOTOX value of your current supplement known? Request the analysis certificate and make sure that the certificate actually relates to the product in your hand. The really good brands have traceability in order and can give you a quick answer. If not, you already know enough! WHC fish and algae oil is the world leader in the highest concentrated omega-3. As a result, we are also experts in preventing and limiting oxidation. In short, do you want 100% certainty? Then it is best to order WHC Omega-3 products .

What antioxidants are used to protect omega-3?

To prevent damage to the sensitive omega-3 fatty acids after production, a combination of antioxidants is added. Examples are tocopherol-rich extract (contains different types of vitamin E), rosemary extract and ascorbyl palmitate (this is fat-soluble vitamin C).

What can I do to protect my omega-3 capsules against oxidation?

Always store your omega-3 capsules or oil in a cool place (preferably in the refrigerator, the cooler the better better) dark place. Also be aware of this when you take your capsules on holiday!