Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550mg Capsules 30

Cod liver oil is one of the most established natural sources of omega 3 fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins, with a long history of use as a daily supplement for cardiovascular support and general wellbeing. Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550 mg capsules provide EPA and DHA omega 3 fatty acids alongside vitamins A and D, all naturally present in cod liver oil. These nutrients contribute to the normal function of the heart, normal brain function, and normal vision, as recognised in authorised health claims. Valupak Cod Liver Oil is available without a prescription and is suitable for adults as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

IMPORTANT: Cod liver oil contains vitamin A (retinol). Pregnant women must not take cod liver oil or any supplement containing vitamin A, as high intakes of vitamin A during pregnancy can harm the developing baby. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, do not take this product. Speak to your midwife or GP about suitable alternatives.

Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550 mg capsules are a food supplement containing cold pressed cod liver oil in easy to swallow softgel capsules. Each 550 mg capsule provides a source of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), along with naturally occurring vitamins A and D derived from the oil.

Cod liver oil is extracted from the livers of Atlantic cod. It is one of the richest natural sources of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and has been used as a nutritional supplement for generations. The 550 mg capsule format provides a convenient way to include these fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins in a daily supplement routine without the taste associated with liquid cod liver oil.

Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550 mg capsules contain no added sugars, artificial colours, or preservatives. The supplement is intended for adults. It is not suitable for pregnant women due to the vitamin A content. Always read the product label to confirm the exact amounts of EPA, DHA, vitamin A, and vitamin D per capsule, as these can vary between manufacturers and batches.

Cod liver oil provides its nutritional benefits through its two main components: omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and fat soluble vitamins (A and D).

EPA and DHA: Omega 3 Fatty Acids

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are long chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are classified as essential fatty acids because the body cannot produce them in adequate amounts and relies on dietary intake or supplementation. EPA and DHA are incorporated into cell membranes throughout the body, where they influence cellular function and signalling.

The authorised health claim for EPA and DHA together is that they contribute to the normal function of the heart. This is established at a combined intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA per day. DHA alone also carries authorised health claims for contributing to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision, both established at a daily intake of 250 mg. These claims reflect the role of DHA as a structural component of brain tissue and the retina of the eye. These are nutritional roles rather than therapeutic claims for treating medical conditions.

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin A in the form of retinol. Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes, normal vision, the normal function of the immune system, and normal iron metabolism. The vitamin A in cod liver oil is preformed retinol, which is readily used by the body. Because of this, the cumulative intake from all sources including diet and supplements must be considered. Pregnant women must not take cod liver oil, as excess vitamin A (retinol) intake during pregnancy is associated with fetal abnormalities.

Vitamin D

Cod liver oil is also a natural source of vitamin D. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, normal muscle function, the normal function of the immune system, and the normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus. In the UK, many adults have low vitamin D levels, particularly in autumn and winter, making dietary and supplementary sources of vitamin D valuable. The vitamin D provided by cod liver oil at the typical dose from a 550 mg capsule contributes to daily vitamin D intake alongside other sources.

Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label. The following guidance reflects standard recommendations for cod liver oil supplements.

• Take one capsule daily with a main meal. Taking cod liver oil with food improves absorption of the fat soluble nutrients it contains and helps to reduce the risk of digestive discomfort or fishy aftertaste.
• Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.
• Do not exceed the stated dose on the label.
• Take at the same time each day as part of your daily routine.
• Store in a cool, dry place and keep the container closed between uses to maintain freshness.

If you take blood thinning medicines such as warfarin, speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking cod liver oil or any omega 3 supplement, as high doses of omega 3 fatty acids may have an anticoagulant effect that could interact with your treatment.

Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550 mg Capsules

Each capsule contains 550 mg of cod liver oil, providing a source of EPA, DHA, vitamin A, and vitamin D. The 550 mg capsule is a mid-range option sitting between the 400 mg and 1000 mg Valupak cod liver oil capsules. It provides a moderate daily contribution of omega 3 fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins. The recommended dose is one capsule per day. Check the product label for the specific amounts of EPA, DHA, and vitamins per capsule.

The UK government recommends eating at least two portions of fish per week, including one portion of oily fish, as a way to obtain omega 3 fatty acids from the diet. For adults who do not regularly eat oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, or herring, a cod liver oil supplement can contribute to omega 3 fatty acid intake.

One 550 mg cod liver oil capsule provides a moderate contribution to daily EPA and DHA intake. For adults seeking a higher omega 3 intake, the Valupak 1000 mg capsule is also available.

Valupak Cod Liver Oil is well tolerated by most adults at the recommended dose. Side effects are uncommon.

Possible Side Effects

• Fishy aftertaste or burping. Taking the capsule with food reduces this. Some products are enteric coated to further minimise this, though the standard Valupak capsule is not enteric coated.
• Mild gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, indigestion, or loose stools, particularly if taken on an empty stomach.

Important Safety Warnings

• PREGNANCY: Cod liver oil must not be taken during pregnancy. It contains vitamin A (retinol), and high intakes of vitamin A during pregnancy can cause fetal abnormalities. Pregnant women should choose an omega 3 supplement that does not contain vitamin A, such as a pure fish oil or algae-based omega 3 supplement without added vitamin A. If you are breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking cod liver oil.
• Do not take more than one cod liver oil supplement at the same time. Taking multiple supplements containing vitamin A can lead to excessive intake.
• Do not take cod liver oil alongside other supplements or medicines that contain vitamin A, including some multivitamins, without checking that the combined daily vitamin A intake does not exceed safe levels.
• If you take warfarin or other anticoagulant medicines, speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking omega 3 supplements at higher doses.

This Supplement May Be Suitable For:

• Adults who do not regularly eat oily fish and wish to supplement their omega 3 fatty acid intake.
• Adults who want to support their daily intake of EPA and DHA as part of cardiovascular support alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle.
• Adults who want a combined source of omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D in a single daily capsule.
• Adults in the UK who may benefit from additional vitamin D, particularly during autumn and winter.

This Supplement Is Not Suitable For:

• Pregnant women. Cod liver oil contains vitamin A (retinol) and must not be taken during pregnancy.
• People who are allergic to fish. Cod liver oil is derived from fish and is not suitable for people with a fish allergy.
• People who take blood thinning medicines, unless they have discussed this with their GP or pharmacist first.
• Children, unless specifically advised by a GP or healthcare professional, as dosing requirements differ and vitamin A intake must be managed carefully in children.

Cod liver oil at standard supplemental doses is generally safe alongside most medicines. However, the following should be considered:

• Warfarin and anticoagulants: high doses of omega 3 fatty acids may have an anticoagulant effect. At standard supplement doses of 1000 mg per day, this is unlikely to be clinically significant for most people, but if you take warfarin, speak to your pharmacist or anticoagulation clinic before starting.
• Other vitamin A containing supplements or multivitamins: check total daily vitamin A intake does not exceed safe upper limits. The tolerable upper limit for vitamin A (retinol) from supplements for adults is approximately 1500 mcg per day.

If you are unsure whether cod liver oil is suitable alongside your current medicines or supplements, speak to a pharmacist.

Valupak Cod Liver Oil 550 mg Capsules are a General Sale List product and do not require a prescription or pharmacist consultation. They can be purchased directly through Pharmacy Planet without a clinical consultation.

Pharmacy Planet is a GPhC registered online pharmacy. All products are genuine, properly stored, and handled by qualified pharmacy professionals. We stock a range of omega 3 and vitamin supplements to support different health goals, including cardiovascular support and everyday vitamin supplementation.

If you have questions about whether cod liver oil is right for you, especially if you take prescription medicines, our pharmacists are happy to provide guidance before you order.

Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep the container tightly closed after each use to protect the capsules from air and moisture. Store away from direct sunlight, as light can degrade the oil. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Refrigeration is not required but can help extend freshness once opened, particularly in warm conditions. Full storage instructions are provided on the product packaging.

Pharmacy Planet is a GPhC registered online pharmacy committed to providing quality supplements and pharmacy products with honest, accurate information. We believe everyone deserves clear, straightforward advice about what they are putting into their body. Whether you are looking for a cod liver oil supplement for daily fatty acid support, cardiovascular support, or general vitamin supplementation, we stock a range of quality products to suit different needs and budgets. All products sold through Pharmacy Planet are genuine and stored to the highest standards. Our pharmacy team is available to answer any questions. We are committed to transparent, patient centred care.

References

1. NHS. Fish and shellfish. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/fish-and-shellfish-nutrition. Accessed May 2026.
2. NHS. Vitamins and minerals — Vitamin A. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-a. Accessed May 2026.
3. NHS. Vitamins and minerals — Vitamin D. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d. Accessed May 2026.
4. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to EPA, DHA, and heart function. EFSA Journal. https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com. Accessed May 2026.
5. Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN). Advice on fish consumption. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sacn-advice-on-fish-consumption. Accessed May 2026.

Omega 3 and Fish Oil Capsules

The table below compares the five oil-based capsule supplements in the Vitamins range. All provide omega 3 or omega 6 fatty acids, but differ in oil type, strength, EPA and DHA content, and vitamin A status.

Important: This comparison is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. A prescriber will decide which treatment is suitable for you following an online consultation.