Is Omega-3 Fish Oil Halal?

Question

This Q&A addresses the permissibility of consuming omega-3 supplements derived from fish that do not have scales.

Answer 1

Peace be upon you.

Ayatollah Al-Sistani (may Allah protect him):

The permissibility of consuming fish oil depends on the type of fish from which it is extracted. If the fish has scales and was taken from water alive or died in a net or fishing pen, it is permissible to eat it and consume its oil. Otherwise, it is not permissible. However, it is allowed to take fish oil for treating severe illnesses if there are no other treatment options available.

Source: Official Website.

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Ayatollah Al-Khamenei (may Allah protect him):

Fish oil obtained from a Muslim, provided that the handling of it is done in accordance with the rules of ritual slaughter, is considered permissible unless it is known to be haram or impure. There is no need to inquire about it, and it is discouraged to do so. If there is doubt about whether it comes from fish with scales or not, it is presumed to be permissible unless proven otherwise. However, if it is known that a non-Muslim handled it, it cannot be consumed without ensuring it was ritually slaughtered. Ritual slaughter is confirmed if a person, even a non-Muslim, took it from water alive and it died outside the water or in the net. It is sufficient to assume that the Muslim importer ensured its ritual slaughter and to treat it as such.

Source: Special Inquiry.

May you be successful in all good.