Supplement labels can be confusing at first glance. This guide breaks down the key areas to look for, so you can understand what you’re buying with more confidence.
Start With the Supplement Facts Panel
The Supplement Facts panel is your roadmap. It shows the product’s serving size, how many servings are in the container, and how much of each listed ingredient you get per serving.
- Serving size (the amount you take at one time)
- Servings per container (how long it lasts)
- Amounts per serving (so you can compare products accurately)
Serving Size and Servings Per Container
Always check serving size first, it sets the context for everything else on the label. Two products can look similar, but the serving sizes may be different.
Ingredient List: What It Means
Ingredient lists are typically shown in descending order by weight. This is helpful when you want to understand what makes up most of the formula.
Clear labeling
Look for ingredient names you recognize and straightforward formatting.
Simple formulas
More ingredients doesn’t always mean better; clarity matters.
Allergens & sensitivities
If you avoid certain ingredients, scan this list carefully every time.
Consistency
Choose products with transparent serving sizes and easy-to-read facts panels.
Active vs. Other Ingredients
Labels often separate “active” ingredients from “other” ingredients. Other ingredients may include capsule materials or small amounts of ingredients used for stability, texture, or delivery.
- Capsule materials (like vegetable cellulose)
- Binding or flow agents
- Natural flavors (in some formats)
Not all “other ingredients” are bad. Many are necessary depending on the product format.
Proprietary Blends: What to Know
Some products list a “proprietary blend,” which means multiple ingredients are grouped together under one total amount. This can make it harder to see the exact amount of each ingredient inside the blend.
Third-Party Testing and Quality Signals
Third-party testing is a strong trust signal because it indicates the product has been evaluated by an independent lab for quality and accuracy.
- Clear serving sizes and straightforward facts panels
- Transparent ingredient lists
- Third-party testing information when available
- Clean, consistent labeling across products
Key Takeaways
- Start with serving size before comparing products.
- Use the Supplement Facts panel to see amounts per serving.
- Scan ingredient lists for clarity, transparency, and things you avoid.
- Third-party testing is a helpful trust signal when available.
FAQs
What’s the most important part of the label?
Start with serving size, then review the Supplement Facts panel and ingredient list for transparency and clarity.
Are proprietary blends bad?
Not necessarily. They simply don’t always show individual ingredient amounts, which some shoppers prefer for transparency.
Do “other ingredients” matter?
They can. Some are required for the product format (like capsule materials). If you have sensitivities, always scan that section.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always read product labels and consult a qualified professional for personal guidance.