The vitamin and supplement industry is massive. In a research from 2021, the CDC found that among adults in the US aged 20 and over, 57.6% were likely to have used a nutritional supplement within the previous 30 days. Additionally, it can be difficult to narrow down your options when there are so many different vitamin brands available.
Moreover, brand recognition, ingredient quality, and the availability of independent testing are just a few of the aspects to think about. Also, it’s hard to tell if you’re getting a good deal because vitamin brands range so much in price.
For your convenience, we evaluated each vitamin brand using criteria including price, third-party certification, and product diversity.
How to Choose the Best Vitamin Brand for You
Finding a trustworthy vitamin brand from all the possibilities can be a real challenge. The following are some things to think about while choosing a high-quality vitamin brand that will work for you:
- Supplementary documentation: The form you prefer—tablet, pill, gummy, or powder—must be considered.
- Personalized requirements: Before making a decision, consider your age, gender, health history, and dietary restrictions.
- Good manufacturing practices (GMPs): Verify that the supplement manufacturer is adhering to the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) established by the FDA to guarantee the uniqueness, quality, potency, and composition of their products.
- Third-party evaluation: To ensure that their supplements are free of contaminants, including all of the claimed ingredients, and were made correctly, supplement firms have the option to voluntarily submit their products to independent testing. U.S. Pharmacopoeia, Consumer Lab, and the National Sanitation Foundation International are some of the organizations that provide third-party testing. Supplements, that aren’t controlled by the FDA like pharmaceuticals and might have wildly varying quality, are an area where this kind of impartial testing is particularly crucial.
- Ingredients: When it comes to supplement fillers, Dr. Garay warns against taking too many, especially when it comes to vitamins and minerals. She warns that products that claim to have proprietary or herbal blends should be avoided because these products may not have been independently certified and may merely list the blend ingredients without providing dosages.
Also, remember that vitamin pills don’t have to provide all the nutrients you need every day, says Dr. Garay. Moreover, it’s possible that your body can’t absorb that much of that nutrient all at once, but you’re probably still getting some nutrients from your food.
Quick Overview Best Vitamin Brands
- Best overall: Thorne
- Best multivitamins: Ritual
- Best Vitamins for Food and Supplements: Megafood
- Best with dietitian support: HUM Nutrition
- Best affordable: Nurish by Nature Made
- Best brand for expert advice: Persona
- Best vegan vitamin brand: Garden of Life
- Best vitamin brand for athletes: Klean Athlete
- Best brand for budget vitamins: Amazon Elements
- Best brand for omega supplements: Nordic Naturals
- Best brand for vitamin gummies: SmartyPants
- Best for bulk buying: Kirkland Signature
- Best for eco-friendly packaging: NOW Foods
- Best for easy availability: Olly
- Pure Encapsulations
The Balanced Bites Top Picks for the Best Vitamin Brands
The most reputable vitamin and supplement companies are upfront about what goes into their products and use rigorous testing procedures. Names like Thorne, Ritual, Persona, and more are among the fifteen top choices we’ve compiled.
Here are some of the best vitamin brands for 2024 that you should know about.
Best Overall Vitamin Brand: Thorne
Thorne tops the list of the best vitamin brands. Product certifications include NSF Certified for Sport and third-party testing for purity and potency. Thorne’s manufacturing facility also has TGA and NSF certifications.
The company offers a wide range of products, including multivitamins, individual vitamins, protein powders, probiotics, fish oil, and specific supplement blends for various needs, such as supporting healthy aging, bone health, activity levels, and more.
A good example is the fact that Thorne Women’s Multi 50+ was voted the top multivitamin for ladies in their fifties.
thebalancedbites.com
The vitamin and supplement items made by Thorne are sold at most major shops and online.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
| Large assortment of products catering to diverse needs. | Potentially expensive for regular purchase. |
| Widely available online or in stores for convenient access. | Some products may not be suitable for certain dietary restrictions. |
| Utilizes highly absorbable nutrient forms for enhanced effectiveness. | Not all products undergo third-party testing. |
| Offers NSF Certified supplements for Sport, meeting high standards. | Limited options for individuals with specific dietary needs. |
Best Multivitamins: Ritual
Ritual is a subscription program that provides multivitamins based on a user’s age, sex, and medical conditions, among other variables. Moreover, pregnancy, digestive health, and general wellness are all part of this.
Furthermore, only traceable ingredients are used in the products, which are tested by a third party. What this implies is that Ritual is transparent about its ingredient sourcing, including who provides it with its ingredients. What sets Ritual apart is its degree of openness and it is certainly among the best vitamin brands.
Also, they’re suitable for vegans. There are a few Ritual vitamins that have been USP-verified, though.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Suitable for vegans | – Some supplements may be considered expensive, even with a monthly subscription |
| – Ingredients are traceable and GMO-free | – Certain multivitamins may lack essential nutrients such as vitamin C |
| – Some products are USP-certified | – Not all products undergo USP verification |
| – Offers products for all life stages | – Availability of certain products may be limited |
Best Vitamins for Food and Supplements: Megafood
The organic, kosher, and vegetarian/vegan status of some MegaFood vitamins is attested by their certificates. Moreover, the vitamins have also been confirmed to not contain any genetically modified organisms.
Moreover, there are items for prenatal and postnatal care, digestion, immune system support, and sleep.
Also, this company’s vitamins have been independently validated by multiple organizations, including the USDA, for their quality and origin.
Additionally, it satisfies rigorous criteria for social, environmental, and ethical activities as a B Corporation.
The top products of this known vitamin brand include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Suitable for all age groups and life stages | – Some users reported unpleasant flavors with certain products |
| – Third-party verifications for quality | – Some users did not notice significant health effects |
| – Accommodates various dietary preferences | – Some tablets may be difficult to swallow for some individuals |
Best with Dietitian Support: HUM Nutrition
Vitamins for menopause symptoms, women’s health, gut, vaginal, and skin health; sleep, stress, and energy; and a wide variety of vitamins are available from HUM. Also, it provides probiotics as well.
Among these companies, this one boasts the most stringent testing procedures, with three rounds of testing and third-party lab verification.
There are no gluten, tree nut, peanut, fish, shellfish, artificial color, soy, or genetically modified organism (GMO) components in any of the brand’s products.
Vegan options are available in the majority of HUM products.
Some of their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Subscription includes access to a nutritionist at no extra charge | – Sign up required for monthly subscription with Hum Nutrition |
| – Plans tailored to individual health needs, preferences, and goals | – More expensive compared to some competitors |
| – Products undergo third-party testing | – Not all products are vegan-friendly |
| – All supplements are gluten-free | – Some claims about products or ingredients lack scientific backing |
| – Discounts offered for 3-month subscriptions | – Limited availability of certain products |
Best affordable: Nurish by Nature Made
Multiple mineral and supplement options are available from Nurish. Moreover, their stated goals include promoting good health during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
After taking a brief online survey, Nurish will tailor a 30-day vitamin supply plan just for the customer. Additionally, the good news is that people can simply adjust their dosages as their health objectives evolve. Additionally, customers have the option to cancel their membership, skip a month, or put a delay on delivery. According to Nurish, a popular vitamin brand in the US, the majority of their products are free of gluten and include no artificial flavors.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Products have no fake colors or flavors | – Not all products are USP-certified |
| – You can change or stop monthly orders | – Can’t handle multiple subscriptions |
| – You get your money back in 30 days | – Nurish’s products are like Nature Made |
Best Brand for expert advice: Persona
An amazing vitamin brand that offers personalized vitamin and supplement delivery.
To receive their tailored suggestions, consumers are asked to fill out an online form that includes their age, gender, the purpose for taking supplements, any particular health issues they may have, and any dietary restrictions they may have.
According to the website, the business provides clients with personalized guidance from industry experts.
Also, there are seven physicians and seven dietitians on this vitamin brand’s advisory board for medical matters. You can consult them for help anytime you need.
There is no USP verification for the items. Doctors have given their stamp of approval to the company’s suggestions, and all of the substances have passed rigorous quality testing, according to the business. Although there is a safety certificate included with every product, it is not from an impartial laboratory.
In addition, the nutritionists and licensed dietitians who work with Persona provide their clients with expert advice. Subscribers seeking individualized health recommendations and wellness coaching can make use of the service’s complimentary sessions.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Cheaper than other well-known brands | – No mention of third-party testing or certifications |
| – Company makes personalized vitamins for each customer | – Some customers complain about undelivered or wrong items |
| – Customers mostly say good things about the products | – Negative reviews mention bad customer service |
| – People like that the packaging feels special and unique | – Lack of transparency regarding product testing |
Best Vegan Vitamin Brand: Garden of Life
Several items have earned certifications from groups including the Marine Stewardship Council, Friend of the Sea, NSF Certified for Sport, and Informed Choice. Additionally, organic, carbon-neutral, vegan, and gluten-free certifications are available for some products.
Also, a variety of nutritional supplements are available, such as protein powders, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, probiotics, minerals, vitamins, and multivitamins.
Moreover, dietary supplements from this vitamin brand are suitable for those who are looking to avoid gluten, soy, dairy, and even some animal products. Furthermore, vegans looking for a variety of vitamin options free of animal substances have a good option with over 130 vegan products to choose from.
Vegan Awareness Foundation certification is something that Garden of Life boasts about on its website. Moreover, products do not include any form of animal testing, contains no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or genes produced from animals. Also, they don’t include any kind of meat, fish, poultry, or animal by-products. Also, they don’t contain any eggs, milk, honey, bee products, or honey by-products.
This vitamin brand’s top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Offers many vegan-friendly supplements | – Some customers feel the supplements didn’t make them feel better |
| – Some products certified by trusted organizations | – Some people had side effects from using Garden of Life products |
| – Variety of options: gluten-free, kosher, vegan, and organic | – Not all products are vegan |
| – Some supplements made from whole-food ingredients | – Limited availability of certain products |
Best Vitamin brand for athletes: Klean Athlete
This vitamin brand is greatly inspired by Athletes. Furthermore, the Certified for Sport certification from NSF International is on all of their products.
Vitamins, minerals, collagen, protein powders, electrolyte powders, creatine, and multivitamins are all part of the product line.
Unlike some manufacturers who cater to athletes, Klean Athlete places a strong emphasis on natural products, and healthy eating.
Also, its products are likewise devoid of any ingredients that are prohibited in athletic competitions.
The top products of this athletes’ favorite vitamin brand include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Products are NSF-certified | – Can be expensive if bought regularly |
| – Free from banned substances in sports | – Some buyers didn’t find them effective |
| – Backed by scientific research | – Some users experienced side effects |
| – No GMOs, wheat, or gluten, suitable for intolerances | – Limited variety of products |
| – No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners in Klean | – Availability might be limited |
Best Brand for budget Vitamins: Amazon Elements
A newer vitamin brand, Amazon Elements, offers products that may be purchased online with an Amazon Prime membership.
Despite the lack of USP verification, the company asserts that its vitamins and supplements have been rigorously tested.
Among the many products sold by Amazon Elements are multivitamins, biotin, iron, prenatal, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Moreover, buying supplements from Amazon Elements is a great way to save money without sacrificing quality or effectiveness.
A U.S. facility that follows GMP criteria makes the company’s products, according to the company. Using the QR codes on the packaging, you can easily retrieve the COA for any product.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Manufacturing facility follows strict GMP guidelines | – Products lack USP verification |
| – Each product has a COA accessible on packaging | – Some products contain palm oil |
| – Offers a good variety of products | – Multivitamins may be difficult to swallow for some customers |
Best Brand for omega supplements: Nordic Naturals
Several Nordic Naturals products have earned the NSF seal of approval for use in athletic competitions, showing that they are free of genetically modified organisms.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, including vegan and vegetarian alternatives, are available from this reliable vitamin brand.
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, Nordic Naturals offers a variety of other nutritional supplements, such as collagen, multivitamins, vitamin B complexes, and probiotics.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements derived from marine sources are the most easily absorbed by the body, according to Nordic Naturals’ claim. Additionally, it mentions that the omega-3 supplements from Nordic Naturals are sourced from responsibly harvested marine organisms.
Their top products are:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – COAs available online for each product | – Offers fewer products compared to other brands |
| – Products are third-party tested | – Some users didn’t notice improvement with fish oil capsules |
| – Offers plant-based Omega-3 supplements for babies | – Some users found fish oil capsules had unpleasant smell/taste |
| – Positive reviews mention ease of swallowing capsules | – Limited availability of certain products |
Best brand for Vitamin gummies: SmartyPants
For both kids and grown-ups, SmartyPants has a wide selection of nutritional supplements and vitamins.
People who have trouble swallowing other forms of medication may find that its many gummy versions work better for them.
Product compliance certificates are issued by SmartyPants on a batch-by-batch basis. Whether this certification is based on independent evaluations is unclear, though.
The high sugar content of gummies can be a worry for consumers. To make their gummies delicious, this vitamin brand uses organic sugar cane and other nutritious ingredients, according to their claim.
The candies’ colorants, according to the manufacturer, are derived from organic turmeric and black carrot juice.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Products are fairly affordable | – Gummies may not be suitable for people with diabetes |
| – Gummies offer an easy-to-swallow alternative | – Some customers find supplements less effective over time |
| – Awarded Clean Label Projects Purity Award and Certifications | – Gummies’ taste may be unpleasant due to sweetness |
| – Products are GMO-free and gluten-free | – Supplements may not be as economical due to required quantity |
| – Free from major allergens like milk, peanut, egg, etc. | – Some users find the taste of the gummies unpleasant |
Best for Bulk Buying: Kirkland Signature
Several vitamins and minerals are available under the Kirkland Signature vitamin brand, which is sold by Costco Wholesale. Furthermore, it offers a lot of items in bulk (100-600 pieces in each bottle), which is great for families or people who don’t have the money to buy supplements every day.
Multivitamins, minerals, fish oil, and specific vitamins (A, C, and D) are all part of the assortment.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Offers various supplement types at budget-friendly prices | – Some products contain gelatin |
| – Supplements are USP-certified | – Not all products are suitable for vegans |
| – Bulk buying options available | – Some supplements contain synthetic instead of natural nutrients |
Best for Eco-friendly Packaging: NOW Foods
Products and services offered by NOW Foods are designed to assist individuals in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, this vitamin brand asserts that it procures materials of the utmost quality and worth from across the globe.
According to the business, their products go through little processing and do not include any artificial chemicals. Furthermore, NOW asserts that its products contain nature-identical chemicals, which the body may readily transform into its natural state.
In recognition of its dedication to all-natural ingredients, NOW Foods has earned GMP certifications from the Natural Products Association (NPA) and is an active participant in the NPA’s TruLabel Programme.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Large variety of affordable products | – Chewable vitamins taste unpleasant |
| – UL Solutions-certified | – Some users experience indigestion and heartburn with supplements |
| – Uses 100% recycled bottles | – Limited supplement options for vegans and vegetarians |
Best for easy Availability: Olly
Olly presents itself as a vitamin brand that strives to improve people’s internal and external well-being.
Among other things, the company sells pills that might improve your sleep, mood, and digestive health. At a lower price point, it offers nutritional supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and more.
In addition, vitamin and other supplements are offered in a variety of forms, including gummies, soft gels, tablets, and capsules, and the selection covers vitamins for adults, teens, and children.
Their top products include:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Easily available in various stores | – Some products contain animal-derived gelatin, not suitable for vegans/vegetarians |
| – Budget-friendly supplements | – Some products contain added sugar, unsuitable for sugar-free diets |
| – NSF-certified products | – Some products may lack necessary nutrients |
Best for Dietary Supplements: Pure Encapsulations
A reliable vitamin brand for dietary supplements. The mission of Pure Encapsulations is to provide supplements that are risk-free, made from natural ingredients, and sourced ethically. In addition, there is a larger variety of supplements that are both certified gluten-free and free of numerous common allergies when compared to other companies.
Along with routine testing of vitamins and equipment, the organization follows stringent safety protocols to avoid allergen cross-contamination. Also, to make sure they’re safe, every supplement is tested by an independent lab for hazardous substances and impurities.
Furthermore, Pure Encapsulations provides a wide range of nutritional supplements, including those for the digestive system, the immune system, the brain, hormone balance, and more.
Finally, Pure Encapsulations formulates many of their products to make sure they work as well as possible with as few adverse effects as possible. Moreover, a variety of substances formulated to address specific health concerns are also included in their product range.
Also, an example of a product that caters to men over 40 is the Men’s Nutrients multivitamin. Furthermore, it has a combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that target issues including prostate activity, heart health, endurance, and macular integrity, among others.
Their top products include:
Comparison of Top Vitamin Brands
| Brand | Price Range | Form | Third-party Testing | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thorne Research | $12–$68 | Soft Gels, Powder, Gummies, Capsules, Liquid | Yes | NSF, TGA, NSF Certified for Sport |
| MegaFood | $16.99–$59.98 | Capsules, Chews, Gummies, Liquid, Tablets, Tea | Yes | B Corporation, USDA, Glyphosate Residue-free, Vegan, Kosher, Plastic Neutral, Gluten-free |
| Ritual | $33–$39 | Capsules, Gummies, Powder | Yes | Non-GMO, Some USP-certified |
| HUM | $12–$45 | Capsules, Soft Gels, Tablets | Yes | Clean Label Project Certified, Non-GMO Project Verified |
| Nurish by Nature Made | $4–$15 | Capsules, Soft Gels, Powder Sticks | No | Some USP-certified |
| Persona | $1.68–$85.96 | Liquid, Capsules, Tablets, Soft Gels, Gummies, Spray | Yes | In-house testing, No third-party testing |
| Garden of Life | Around $51.99–$76 | Tablets, Soft Gels, Powder, Chews, Capsules | Yes | Informed Choice, NSF Certified for Sport, Friend of the Sea, Marine Stewardship Council, Organic, Carbon Neutral, Vegan, Gluten-free |
| Klean Athlete | Around $73 | Tablets, Soft Gels, Powder, Chews, Capsules | Yes | NSF Certified for Sport, Non-GMO |
| Amazon Elements | Around $7–$40 | Capsules, Soft Gels, Powder, Tablets | Yes | USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-free |
| Nordic Naturals | Around $26–$53 | Capsules, Gummies, Soft Gels, Powder, Liquid | Yes | Non-GMO Verified, Some NSF Certification for Sport |
| SmartyPants | Around $18–$37 | Gummies, Chews, Capsules | Yes | Clean Label Project’s Purity Award, Clean Label Certification |
| Kirkland Signature | $13.49–$33.99 | Tablets, Soft Gels, Gummies, Capsules, Liquid | Yes | USP Certified |
| NOW Foods | $8.99–$69.99 | Tablets, Chewables, Lozenges, Liquids, Soft Gels, Powders, Capsules, E-oil | Yes | UL Solutions-certified, Non-GMO Project Verified, USDA Certified Organic, Some Informed-sport Certification |
| Olly | $13.99–$19.99 | Gummies, Soft Gels, Tablets, Capsules | Yes | NSF-certified, B-corporation-certified |
Conclusion
In conclusion, it could be difficult to select the best vitamin brands, but there are lots of choices to meet everyone’s needs and tastes.
Ultimately, when searching for a suitable vitamin brand, it is important to think about the company’s reputation, testing procedures, and the substances utilized, as well as your requirements and health objectives.
Finally, if you’d want some help narrowing down the options to brands that might suit your tastes, you can use the list above as a guide.
