Not All Supplements Are The Same
Food supplements are available in a wide range of formats, formulations and price points. Products that appear similar at first glance may differ in ingredient forms, manufacturing processes, testing procedures and overall formulation design.
Understanding these differences can help consumers make more informed decisions when selecting supplements that fit their individual preferences and needs.
This guide explains several common factors that consumers may wish to consider when evaluating supplement quality.
1. Understanding Different Mineral Forms
Minerals used in food supplements are available in a variety of chemical forms.
These forms can generally be divided into:
Inorganic Mineral Forms
Examples include:
- Magnesium Oxide
- Magnesium Carbonate
- Zinc Oxide
- Iron Sulfate
These forms have been widely used in food supplements for many years and are commonly found in a variety of products.
Organic and Chelated Mineral Forms
Examples include:
- Magnesium Bisglycinate
- Magnesium Citrate
- Magnesium Malate
- Magnesium Taurate
- Zinc Bisglycinate
- Magnesium Gluconate
Chelated minerals are minerals that are chemically bound to another compound, such as an amino acid or organic acid.
Different mineral forms vary in their chemical structure and are commonly selected by manufacturers according to the intended formulation and product design.
What To Look For On The Label
The specific mineral form is usually listed within the ingredients section.
Examples include:
- Magnesium Bisglycinate
- Magnesium Citrate
- Zinc Bisglycinate
- Magnesium Oxide
Checking the exact ingredient name can help consumers understand which form of the mineral is used in a product.
2. Understanding Food Colourings
Colour is one of the most visible characteristics of many supplements, particularly gummies, powders and chewable products.
Food colourings can originate from a variety of sources.
Artificial Colourings
Examples include:
- Ponceau 4R (E124)
- Carmoisine (E122)
- Tartrazine (E102)
- Brilliant Blue (E133)
Certain colourings are subject to specific labelling requirements under EU legislation.
For example, products containing Ponceau 4R (E124) and Carmoisine (E122) must carry the following warning statement:
"May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children."
Naturally Derived Colourings
Examples include:
- Beetroot
- Beta-carotene
- Turmeric
- Anthocyanins from grape skins
- Purple carrot concentrate
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
- Cocoa powder
Naturally derived colourings are sourced from plant, vegetable or other naturally occurring materials.
What To Look For On The Label
Consumers can review the ingredient list to identify the colouring agents used in a product.
Food colourings are typically listed by name or by their corresponding E-number.
3. Understanding Sweeteners
Many flavoured supplements contain sweeteners to improve taste and palatability.
Sucralose
Sucralose is one of the most commonly used sweeteners in food supplements.
It is approved for use within the European Union and is widely used in protein powders, electrolyte powders and other flavoured products.
Steviol Glycosides
Steviol glycosides are sweetening compounds derived from the stevia plant.
They are approved for use within the EU and are commonly used in gummies and chewable supplements.
Erythritol
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol naturally present in small amounts in certain fruits and fermented foods.
It is commonly used in sugar-free formulations.
Maltitol
Maltitol is another sugar alcohol frequently used in gummies and chewable products.
Products containing certain levels of sugar alcohols may be required to carry the statement:
"Excessive consumption may produce laxative effects."
What To Look For On The Label
Sweeteners are listed within the ingredients section and can usually be identified by the term:
Sweetener:
followed by the specific sweetener used.
4. Independent Laboratory Testing
Quality control is an important aspect of food supplement manufacturing.
Many manufacturers use independent laboratories to analyse products for factors such as:
- Ingredient verification
- Heavy metals
- Microbiological contamination
- Product purity
- Regulatory compliance
Independent testing may provide additional information about the quality control processes applied during manufacturing.
What To Look For
Consumers may wish to check whether a manufacturer provides information regarding laboratory testing and quality control procedures.
5. Manufacturing Standards
Food supplements manufactured within the European Union are subject to food safety legislation and quality requirements.
Several standards are commonly referenced within the supplement industry.
GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice)
GMP refers to manufacturing procedures designed to help ensure consistency, quality and traceability during production.
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
HACCP is a food safety management system used to identify and control potential hazards during manufacturing.
ISO 22000
ISO 22000 is an internationally recognised food safety management standard used by many food and supplement manufacturers.
What To Look For
Consumers may wish to review information relating to manufacturing standards, quality systems and production facilities when comparing products.
How Tenebra Approaches Product Quality
When developing products, Tenebra focuses on several key principles:
Clear Ingredient Disclosure
Ingredient forms are listed clearly on product labels so consumers can identify the specific ingredients used.
Transparent Formulations
Products are formulated with clearly declared ingredients and serving information.
Independent Testing
Products undergo laboratory testing as part of quality control procedures.
Certified Manufacturing
Products are manufactured in certified facilities operating under recognised food safety and quality systems.
Regulatory Compliance
Products are produced in accordance with applicable food supplement legislation and labelling requirements.
A Simple Checklist When Choosing A Supplement
Before purchasing a supplement, consider reviewing:
1. Ingredient Form
What specific form of the ingredient is used?
2. Ingredient List
Are all ingredients clearly listed?
3. Sweeteners And Colourings
What sweeteners and colourings are included?
4. Testing Information
Does the manufacturer provide information about quality control and testing?
5. Manufacturing Standards
Is information available regarding manufacturing and food safety standards?
Reviewing these factors can help consumers make more informed decisions when comparing products.
Important Information
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Always follow the recommended daily serving stated on the product label.
If you have questions about a specific supplement or ingredient, consult a qualified healthcare professional.