At 91 years young, Malfrid Olsen is living proof of the strength and vitality that comes from a lifetime connected to the sea. Born in 1930, she has lived her entire life in Ballstad, where she and her husband ran a family shop established in 1959. Today, she enjoys retirement surrounded by five children, twelve grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Although retired, Malfrid leads a full and active life. She still lives independently, drives her own car, and remains closely connected to the traditions of her community.
We asked Mrs. Olsen about her lifelong relationship with omega-3 and the role it has played in her health and family life.
Do you use omega-3?
Yes, every single day. I have taken omega-3 for most of my life. Along with eating plenty of fish, I still use liquid omega-3, because that’s what I grew up with as a child.
When did you first hear about omega-3?
As far back as I can remember, omega-3 was part of our daily life. Families along the Norwegian coast always understood the health benefits of fish and omega-3. It was simply a normal part of our diet and lifestyle.
When did you learn that it was important to use, and why?
People always knew it was good for health. Back then, it was even called a kind of “energy drink” that gave you strength. Omega-3 was seen as protection against flu and illness. Since vitamin supplements didn’t exist in those days, the liquid omega-3 we drank was our source of vitamins A and D — essential for staying healthy in the cold north.
Do you have any stories about omega-3 from your youth?
Yes, during the war years (1940–1945), the government made sure that every schoolchild received a daily spoon of omega-3. Food was rationed, but this ensured that children had stronger immune systems.
I remember the strong taste — purification methods weren’t like today. At school, the teacher would keep the bottle, and each student had to bring their own spoon from home. One by one, we lined up to take our spoonful of omega-3.
I also remember hearing about families in central Norway, who had less access to fish. Many suffered from goiter, caused by iodine deficiency — something that fish and omega-3 help prevent.
Did you give omega-3 to your children?
Yes, absolutely. Every morning before school, my children had a spoonful of omega-3. On top of that, we ate fish about five days a week. Meat was only served once or twice a week.
During cod season, when the fish came in from the Barents Sea to spawn in Lofoten, our meals were fish every single day. Fish is such a versatile and healthy ingredient — I can’t imagine another food that offers so many different dishes and such incredible health benefits.
What advice would you give young people today about omega-3?
My advice is simple: everyone should take it. Omega-3 protects your health, supports your future, and helps you live a long, strong, and healthy life.
A Living Example of Omega-3’s Power
Malfrid Olsen’s story is more than personal history — it’s a reminder of how deeply omega-3 is woven into Norwegian life. For generations, it has been the foundation of strong health, energy, and resilience. Today, products like Ballstad Omega-3 carry this tradition forward, combining the wisdom of the past with the purity and science of modern nutrition.