Understanding the labels on dietary supplements can be a complex task. Every ingredient must be listed, either on the supplement facts panel or below it. Ingredients are generally listed in order of predominance of dosage. However, there's a twist that complicates things: the use of "Proprietary Blends."
The Deception of Proprietary Blends
Proprietary blends allow manufacturers to list a combination of ingredients as a single item, obscuring the dosage of each individual ingredient. This loophole enables brands to conceal the actual composition of their supplements, making it challenging for consumers to know what they are really getting.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are exceptions to the rule of listing ingredients in order of predominance. Vitamins and minerals with a Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) are listed separately, in a designated order by the FDA. Then there's the second exception, which concerns proprietary blends. Brands often combine several ingredients in a blend, pushing it to the top of the list without disclosing the dosage of each constituent.
The NutraBio Difference
Unlike many companies, NutraBio never uses proprietary blends. We believe in transparency, listing every single ingredient and its corresponding dosage. This approach provides consumers with the clarity they need to make informed decisions about their supplements. Explore our top-selling products for transparent and high-quality options.
Flavorings: The Hidden Ingredients
Flavorings are another area where supplement labels can be vague. Regulations don't require the disclosure of individual flavor components, only whether they are natural or artificial. This lack of detail can make it difficult for consumers to fully understand what's in their supplements.
Misleading Practices with Whey Protein Isolate
Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) is a high-quality protein source, but it's also expensive. To cut costs, some manufacturers add small quantities of WPI to proprietary blends containing cheaper proteins and fillers, misleading consumers into believing WPI is the primary ingredient. For authentic WPI supplements, check out our Whey Protein Isolate offerings.
The Real Impact of Proprietary Blends
The use of proprietary blends not only misleads consumers about the prominence of quality ingredients like WPI, but it also allows for the burying of cheaper fillers like maltodextrin at the bottom of the label. This deceptive practice can significantly lower the actual protein content in a product.
Conclusion: Choose Transparency
As a consumer, it's crucial to understand these labeling tactics. Opt for brands like NutraBio that are committed to transparency and quality control. By avoiding proprietary blends and choosing products with clear ingredient listings, you can ensure you're getting the quality and composition you expect from your supplements. Discover our range of transparent supplements in our General Health category.
