Hi Mike, Thank you for trying Qualia Mind. Yes, the Qualia Mind pills and their contents definitely have a smell to them. This is normal and is due to the ingredient AlgaDHA, as you mentioned, as it is derived from algae and can have that smell/taste to it if you are sensitive to it. Our system shows you've already reached out to Customer Support in which we refunded your order in full. You are welcome to try our new formula Essentials which does not contain the AlgaDHA. Feel free to reach out to our support team if you need anything further.