FAQ
About the Brand
What does “Maia” mean, and how do you say it?
Maia is pronounced MY-ah. In Greek mythology, Maia is the nurturing goddess of growth and fertility. Associated with springtime and new life, she symbolizes renewal, vitality, and a deep connection with nature.
Fun fact: the month of May, a symbol of growth and renewal, is named after Maia!
Why was Living Maia created?
Living Maia was born from a simple belief: caring for yourself and caring for the Earth should go hand in hand. We create clean, plant-based supplements that support your health without harming the planet. Our first product, a vegan omega-3 made from algae, offers the benefits of fish oil, without the fish.
What does Living Maia stand for?
Every choice we make reflects our core values:
- Clean, plant-based nutrition: Sustainably sourced and free from fillers.
- Eco-conscious packaging: Glass bottles, aluminum caps, and FSC-certified boxes and labels.
- Ethical practices: We strive to protect the oceans and all life through mindful, sustainable decisions.
What makes Living Maia different?
Living Maia is built on three core values: clean, plant-based, and sustainable. Our formula has just 5 clean ingredients, with no fillers, carrageenan, or major allergens. Because it’s sustainably sourced from algae, it’s free of ocean pollutants like heavy metals and microplastics, and it’s entirely plant-based. Every bottle is packaged with sustainability in mind, using a recyclable glass bottle, aluminum cap, and FSC-certified paper box and label.
Product Questions
What ingredients are in Living Maia’s Vegan Omega-3
- Algal oil (Schizochytrium sp. algae)
- Purified water
- Modified tapioca starch
- Palm glycerin
- Rosemary extract (natural preservative)
What makes Living Maia’s omega-3 supplement different?
Our omega-3 is made from sustainably sourced algae, not fish, making it 100% vegan, ocean-friendly, and a cleaner, safer alternative to fish oil. Because it’s grown in controlled, land-based systems, it’s free from ocean contaminants like heavy metals and microplastics often found in fish-based supplements.
Sourcing from algae instead of fish helps protect marine ecosystems and avoids contributing to overfishing or harm to ocean life. It’s a more sustainable choice for both your health and the planet.
Our packaging is also carefully chosen to reflect our environmental commitment. We use recyclable glass bottles, aluminum caps, and FSC-certified paper for our labels and boxes, minimizing plastic use as much as possible.
Plastic pollution is a global issue, and we’re doing our part to reduce it. Through our choices, we hope to raise awareness, help spread the message, and inspire change.
Why choose algae instead of fish oil?
Algae is the original source of omega-3 and it’s where fish get their omega-3 in the first place. By going straight to the source, our formula delivers clean DHA + EPA without the heavy metals, microplastics, or fishy aftertaste that come with fish oil. And because there's no need to kill fish, it’s better for the ocean too.
Is it safe for pregnancy or breastfeeding?
We always recommend checking with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. That said, many expectant and new moms prefer algae-based omega-3 because it’s cleaner than fish oil, free of the fishy aftertaste, and our formula is pure and filler-free.
Is this supplement suitable for kids?
We recommend speaking with a pediatrician before giving this product to children.
How should I store the supplement?
Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration is needed.
Are your softgels vegan or plant-based?
Yes! The softgels are made from all plant-based ingredients: modified tapioca starch, purified water, palm glycerin, and rosemary extract. Tapioca starch forms the softgel shell, and it replaces animal-derived gelatin used in conventional softgels.
Do your softgels contain carrageenan?
No. We don’t use carrageenan, a common thickener found in some vegan softgels, because it can sometimes cause digestive sensitivity and doesn’t align with our clean, minimal-ingredient approach.
What is modified tapioca starch, and why is it used in your softgels?
Tapioca starch, derived from the cassava root, forms the softgel shell and replaces animal-derived gelatin used in conventional softgels. It creates a smooth, flexible, and stable shell without synthetic additives.
“Modified tapioca starch” simply means the starch has been gently processed to improve its texture and stability. Our tapioca starch is non-GMO, plant-based, and helps the softgels hold their shape over time. We also avoid carrageenan, another common gelatin alternative, because it can sometimes cause digestive sensitivity and doesn’t align with our clean, minimal-ingredient approach.
What is glycerin, and why is it used in your softgels?
Glycerin is a natural ingredient used in small amounts to help keep softgels flexible and stable. It can be derived from either plant oils or animal fats, but it's quite different from oil or fats themselves. All purified glycerin is identical regardless of its source. The process removes all fats and oil components, leaving only pure glycerin.
Our glycerin is plant-based and derived from palm oil. The main difference between palm-derived and glycerin derived from other plant sources is simply the source oil.
Why does the label say rosemary oil instead of rosemary extract?
The rosemary ingredient is actually an extract. The ingredient list I received from the manufacturer originally listed it as rosemary oil, but I later confirmed that it’s in fact rosemary extract. It was too late to correct this for the current batch, but future batches will list it accurately. Rosemary extract acts as a natural antioxidant that helps prevent oxidation and extend shelf life, and it’s considered a natural preservative.
Why isn’t there a desiccant packet in the bottle?
Softgels need a bit of moisture to stay flexible, and a desiccant would absorb that moisture, making the softgels too dry or brittle. Our bottles are tightly sealed to protect freshness and stability without the need for a desiccant.
How long does a bottle last?
Each bottle contains 64 softgels, enough for a 1–2 month supply depending on your daily intake.
Is the packaging eco-friendly?
Yes. We package our supplements in recyclable glass bottles with aluminum caps, paper labels, and FSC-certified paper boxes. We minimize plastic wherever possible.
Sustainability & Ethics
Are your ingredients sustainably sourced?
Yes. We source our omega‑3 directly from algae, the original source of omega‑3 in the ocean, rather than fish. This plant-based approach helps protect marine life and significantly reduces the environmental impact typically caused by fish oil production.
Our U.S. manufacturing partner shares our deep commitment to sustainability and holds certifications such as Friend of the Earth, Friend of the Sea, and Green Tech, which recognize environmentally responsible sourcing and production practices. These certifications reflect their dedication to protecting ecosystems, reducing environmental harm, and producing high-quality supplements with integrity.
Learn more on our Sustainability page.
Is your packaging plastic-free?
We use glass bottles, aluminum caps, and paper-based packaging to reduce plastic waste. The safety neckband and induction seal may contain some plastic, which we are continually working to improve.
Do you test on animals?
No, we do not test on animals. We deeply love and respect animals, and that’s one of the main reasons we chose to offer a vegan omega-3 made from algae instead of fish. Our goal is to provide a clean, effective supplement that supports your health without harming other life in the process.
Orders & Shipping
Where can I buy Living Maia products?
At the moment, Living Maia products are available exclusively on our website, livingmaia.com. We’re planning to partner with select retail stores in the near future, and stay tuned for updates!
Where do you ship?
We currently ship to all U.S. states and Canada.
Do you offer international shipping?
We currently offer international shipping to Canada only.
How long does shipping take?
U.S. orders typically arrive within 2–7 business days, depending on your location and the shipping method selected.
Canadian orders ship via USPS First Class International and usually take 7–21 business days, depending on customs and local delivery services.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes, we offer free U.S. shipping on orders of $45 or more.
Do you provide tracking?
Absolutely! All orders include tracking so you can follow your package every step of the way.
Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery. For more details, visit our Return & Refund Policy.
Do you offer free returns?
Yes! if your item arrives defective or incorrect, we’ll cover the cost of return shipping.
Do you refund shipping costs?
Yes, if the product is defective or incorrect, we’ll refund your original shipping costs.
How are refunds issued?
Refunds are issued to the original payment method once we receive and inspect the returned item. Please allow 5–10 business days for the refund to appear on your statement.
Subscriptions
Do you offer subscriptions?
Yes! Subscribe and save 10%! Stay consistent with your wellness routine, with the freedom to skip or cancel anytime.
Can I pause, skip, or cancel?
Absolutely. You can pause, skip, or cancel your subscription anytime before your next order is processed.
Is there a minimum commitment?
There is no minimum commitment. You're in control!
How do I manage my subscription?
You can manage your subscription in your customer account.
Account & Payment
Do I need an account to place an order?
No, you can check out as a guest. However, you'll need an account to manage subscriptions.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, Shop Pay, PayPal, and express options like Apple Pay and Google Pay (when available on your device). All payments are processed securely.
Is it safe to order from your website?
Yes. Our site uses secure, encrypted technology to keep your personal and payment information safe.