Green Pasture’s Fermented Cod Liver Oil: Everything You Need to Know

by Carly Neubert, BA, NC on June 21, 2023

Who Is Green Pasture?

Green Pasture is a small, family-run company that specializes in providing quality and nutrient-rich fatty acids supplements. They offer concentrated butter oil supplements as well as fermented cod liver oil and fermented skate liver oil.

Green Pasture started when founders Dave and Barbara Wetzel wanted to live closer to the land, as farmers, in Nebraska. After hearing about Dr. Weston A Price’s research work in high-vitamin butter oil, they knew that this was something they wanted to explore further. The Wetzel’s decided to devote their farm to producing grass-fed dairy to create their concentrated butter oil supplement.

Dr. Price’s research has been the foundation for much of Green Pasture’s product offerings. One of Dr. Price’s major discoveries was the relationship between taking butter oil and cod liver oil. He observed this combination of nutrients bringing about improvements in both dental and physical health.

Fermented Cod Liver Oil

If you’ve done some research into supplements, chances are you’ve seen cod liver oil and omega-3 fish oil as popular options. Cod liver oil is derived from the livers of cod fish (think fish and chips!) Cod liver oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids and is a great source of vitamins A and D.

What’s special about Green Pasture’s formula is the fermentation process. Fermentation allows for the nutritional aspects of the cod liver oil to be preserved while optimizing the absorption capabilities. Green Pasture gets their cod livers from wild-caught Alaskan cod. The fish are caught in the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands region of Alaska. Alaskan Leader Seafoods supplies their fish. Inspections take place during each step of the harvesting and transportation process and are regulated by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).

Reviews

Margaret W. uses the Fermented Cod Liver Oil capsules

“I love the way this product is processed. It gives me my vitamin D and since taking this product my LDL cholesterol has gone down. Thank you!”

Carla S. says

“I love this product...! There is no better source of Vitamin D3, and the natural process used to produce this product gives me the assurance of getting the full value of Vitamin D3 at this time of COVID. Thank you...!”

Beverley C. takes the Fermented Cod Liver Oil capsules

“We have been using the Fermented Cod Liver Capsules for quite a while, and are pleased. There is no "fishy" taste, which is a plus. In comparing these with others, we feel it meets our needs/expectations best, so will continue to use them.”

Caroline K. takes Fermented Cod Liver Oil liquid said:

“For years I have used it to keep my hair and skin strong. It’s a mood booster and immunity powerhouse. Used it when I had covid with success. Highly recommend. It arrived fast - quality product.”

Brent H. takes Fermented Cod Liver Oil liquid

“Good product! Good service! Best Cod Liver Oil on the Market!”

FAQs

What is Fermented Cod Liver Oil good for?

The potential benefits of cod liver oil include inflammation reduction, bone health support, joint pain reduction, eye health support, and mental health improvement.

Does Fermented Cod Liver Oil have DHA?

Yes, it does! All fish oil and fatty acid supplements, including cod liver oil contain DHA. The amounts can vary from batch to batch, as it relates to the fish themselves. Green Pasture has a handy calculation you can use to get an estimate for the mg of DHA per serving. For example, if you are taking 1 tsp of the liquid, that is approximately 5000mg. Calculate 10% of that mg amount and you get the approximate amount of DHA per tsp (500mg).

Who should not take cod liver oil?

While the benefits of cod liver oil sound great, there are some people that should do additional research before taking them. For example, the research thus far has been inconclusive on whether or not fish oil and cod liver oil is completely safe for those with fish and shellfish allergies. Also, pregnant women should exercise caution and check with their healthcare professional before taking cod liver oil.

Is fermented cod liver oil the same as fish oil?

No, it is not! The fermentation process sets Green Pasture’s formula apart from other fish oil formulas on the market. Green Pasture’s formula also uses the livers of cod fish in particular. Other fish oil supplements can use salmon, sardines, herring, and cod liver. While they sound similar, the benefits can differ between cod liver oil supplements and regular fish oil supplements. This is due to cod liver supplements containing more Vitamin A and Vitamin D than fish oil supplements.

How much omega-3 fatty acid is in each capsule

Green Pasture provides an approximate number of 125mg of omega-3s per capsule.

Is the liquid or the capsule better for fermented cod liver oil?

This is completely up to your own personal preference. If you tend to steer clear of strong tastes, the capsules may work better for you. However, you will be paying at least 2 times as much for the capsules. Dose for dose, the liquid is less expensive.

How long does it take for cod liver oil to work?

Cod liver oil and other fish oil supplements are not quick-fix products. Many sources differ on the length of time it takes to see results (as it can vary from person to person). However, from looking at reputable sources the length of time is around a couple of months.

Does fermented cod liver oil need to be refrigerated?

Because the oil has undergone the fermentation process, cod liver oil supplements can be stored in either a dark, cool place or a refrigerator. They just need to be out of direct sunlight and high heat when stored for long periods of time.

Is Fermented Cod Liver Oil better than cod liver oil?

The process of fermentation makes food and supplements easier to digest. Fermentation also saves enzymes, vitamins and minerals that are usually lost during heat processing of traditional fish oil and cod liver oil supplements.

What happens if you take cod liver oil every day?

Every cell in your body uses Omega-3 fatty acids. Your body needs a constant supply of the Omega-3 fatty acids which are found in cod liver oil. There is no toxicity reported for cod liver oil supplements. Nausea or diarrhea can be a possible effect of taking too much cod liver oil at one time.

Can I take vitamin D and cod liver oil together?

Cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin D. You may take additional vitamin D with your cod liver oil supplement. You can order a home vitamin D blood test or work with your doctor to monitor your vitamin D levels.

Is there vitamin D in fermented cod liver oil?

Cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin D. Additional vitamin D is not added to the formula.

Does fermented cod liver oil contain omega-3?

Yes, cod liver oil is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids which are vital to every cell in your body.

What is the difference between omega-3 and cod liver oil?

Omega-3 describes the type of healthy fat found in cod liver oil and other fish oil supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids are used in every cell in your body so it is important to have a daily source, whether you are eating fish, cod liver, or taking a supplement. Some fish oil supplements are made from fish (usually sardines, mackerel or salmon), while others are made from cod livers. Supplements made from cod liver are naturally higher in vitamins A and D.

Concluding Thoughts

Green Pasture has created a product line that is not only effective and backed by science but has garnered many positive reviews and testimonials. By using connections to science, they have created a connection between their family-run farm and the progression of nutritional knowledge. Not only are they a company to keep an eye on, but they are also a company that is receptive to what the general public needs from their fish oil and butter oil supplements. We admire them greatly, and you should too! Have any additional questions about how to implement fermented cod liver oil into your daily supplement routine? Schedule a consult with me, Carly Neubert BA, NC.