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Omega-3 for Children in the UK: Why It Matters, and How to Get Enough

What is Omega-3 and why does it matter for kids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of essential fats that our bodies need but can’t produce on their own — we have to get them through food or supplements. For children, these fats are especially important because they help support brain development, learning, visual function, and even emotional well-being. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), two types of Omega-3s — EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — play a critical role in the development of the brain and eyes in children.

You can think of Omega-3 as “building material” for young minds and growing bodies.

EPA, DHA… sounds technical, but what’s the real deal?

EPA and DHA are long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids mostly found in oily fish and marine sources. DHA is particularly concentrated in the brain and retina, making it essential for cognitive function and vision. EPA, meanwhile, plays a key role in mood regulation and inflammatory balance.

In short, DHA helps build the brain, and EPA helps keep things running smoothly.

How much Omega-3 do children in the UK actually need?

There’s no specific Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) for EPA and DHA in the UK, but EFSA recommends 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day for children over 2 years old.

Despite this, many UK children fall short of this target — especially those who don’t regularly eat oily fish. According to NHS guidelines, children should eat two portions of fish per week, one of which should be oily (like salmon or mackerel), but that’s rarely the case in practice.

Can kids get enough Omega-3 from food alone?

Technically yes — practically, often not. Oily fish is the richest dietary source of EPA and DHA, but not all children enjoy its taste, and some families follow vegetarian or plant-based diets. Plant-based sources like flaxseeds and walnuts contain ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which the body must convert to EPA and DHA — but this process is inefficient, especially in children.

So while it’s possible to meet daily needs through diet alone, many parents turn to supplements as a reliable, fuss-free solution.

Why EasyFishoil may be a smart solution

EasyFishoil offers a unique delivery format that’s made for kids: a soft, fruit-flavoured chewable gel with no fishy taste or smell. Each gel provides a balanced daily dose of EPA and DHA — in line with EFSA recommendations — and is easy to take, even for picky eaters.

The nutrients are emulsified in a water-soluble format, allowing for 44% better absorption compared to traditional capsules. Plus, the product contains no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial colourants — and it comes in hygienic blister packaging for guaranteed freshness.

Is it safe for kids to take Omega-3 daily?

Yes — when taken as recommended, Omega-3 supplements are considered safe and well-tolerated in children. In fact, studies have shown that consistent Omega-3 intake may help with focus, learning, behaviour, and even sleep in children.

As always, parents should consult their healthcare provider before starting any supplement — especially if their child has allergies or a medical condition.

In short: small gels, big support

Whether it’s learning to read, building strong bones, or staying focused in class, Omega-3 is a silent supporter in nearly every stage of your child’s development. With low fish intake being common in UK households, a thoughtfully designed supplement like EasyFishoil offers a simple way to help fill the gap — naturally and deliciously.