Is There a Cheaper Alternative to Balance of Nature?

According to a ConsumerLab.com review, many powdered fruit and vegetable supplements provide significantly less fiber and nutritional content than fresh produce, often at a high cost. Given the premium pricing of Balance of Nature, many consumers are searching for a cheaper alternative to Balance of Nature that still offers nutritional benefits without the hefty price tag.

Quick Summary

Several affordable supplements offer similar fruit and vegetable blends to Balance of Nature, including Simply Nature's Promise and Terra Kai Organics. Evaluating factors like third-party testing, ingredient transparency, and price can help you select a budget-friendly option that meets your nutritional needs.

Key Points

• Affordable Alternatives Exist: Several competitors offer fruit and vegetable supplements at a lower price point than Balance of Nature, including Simply Nature's Promise and Juice Plus+.

• Focus on Transparency: Cheaper alternatives often provide more transparent third-party testing results and detailed ingredient lists, which Balance of Nature lacks.

• Evaluate Cost per Serving: Compare the cost per daily dose and the amount of whole-food powder to find the best value for your money.

• DIY Can Be Cheapest: For maximum control and lowest cost, consider making your own dehydrated fruit and vegetable powders.

• Supplements Are Not Replacements: Remember that no supplement is a true substitute for a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.

Understanding the Cost of Balance of Nature

Balance of Nature is a popular whole-food supplement, but its cost is a major barrier for many people. The brand's Fruits & Veggies combo can cost nearly $90 for a one-time purchase, and even the 'Subscribe & Save' price point requires an initial membership fee. This high monthly investment drives consumers to seek more economical options that provide similar nutritional support.

Why the High Price?

Balance of Nature attributes its high cost to its proprietary freeze-drying process, which they claim preserves nutrients, and the quality of their whole-food ingredients. However, critics point out that the company has faced past issues with the FDA regarding exaggerated health claims and a lack of transparency in its testing procedures. In contrast, many competitors offer comparable or better quality assurance for less money.

Factors for a Cheaper Alternative to Balance of Nature

When seeking a budget-friendly alternative, consider these key factors:

• Ingredient Transparency: Look for products that clearly list the quantity of each fruit and vegetable, not just a vague 'proprietary blend'.
• Third-Party Testing: Reputable brands use independent labs to test for heavy metals and contaminants, and they often make these results publicly available.
• Value and Serving Size: Compare the cost per serving, as well as the total volume of fruits and vegetables, to ensure you are getting a good value.
• Nutritional Completeness: Evaluate whether the alternative includes key added ingredients like probiotics, digestive enzymes, or adaptogens that enhance the overall nutritional profile.

Leading Cheaper Alternatives to Balance of Nature

Several companies offer quality fruit and vegetable supplements at a more accessible price. These alternatives often feature similar whole-food blends but with more transparent practices and competitive pricing.

1. Simply Nature's Promise Simply Fruits & Veggies

Often cited as a direct competitor, Simply Nature's Promise offers a very similar fruit and veggie blend but at a significantly lower price point, with subscription options that reduce the cost even further. This product is third-party tested and does not have the restrictive return policies that have plagued Balance of Nature in the past.

Pros:

• Very similar formula at a lower price.
• Better transparency and third-party testing.
• More flexible subscription model.

Cons:

• Like most supplements, it can't fully replace fresh produce.

2. Juice Plus+ Fruit & Vegetable Blend

Juice Plus+ is another well-established player in the market, known for its extensive clinical research, often using its own products. While it requires a subscription, its overall price per month is more competitive, and the company is NSF certified for quality assurance.

Pros:

• Backed by extensive research.
• NSF certified for superior quality and safety.
• More transparent nutritional information.

Cons:

• Subscription is required for purchase.

3. Double Wood Daily Fruits and Veggies

For the most budget-conscious consumer, Double Wood offers a potent formula at a fraction of the cost per serving. While it may not contain the same extensive list of ingredients as higher-end options, it's a solid, transparent choice for those looking to add a basic fruit and vegetable boost to their diet without spending a fortune.

Pros:

• Extremely budget-friendly price point.
• Simple and transparent ingredient list.
• Sold on multiple online retailers like Amazon.

Cons:

• Less comprehensive ingredient list compared to other options.
• No added probiotics or enzymes.

Comparison Table: Balance of Nature vs. Cheaper Alternatives

Feature	Balance of Nature	Simply Nature's Promise	Juice Plus+	Double Wood
Price (Monthly)	$69.95+ (subscription, plus fee)	$39.95 (subscription)	$54.00 (subscription)	~$10.00+ (per 30-day supply)
Daily Serving Size	6 Capsules	6 Capsules	4 Capsules	3 Capsules
Third-Party Testing	Periodic, limited transparency	Yes, transparent	Yes, NSF Certified	Yes, transparent
Ingredients	16 fruits, 15 vegetables in blends	Similar fruit & veggie blend	Fruit & Vegetable Blend	49 fruits and veggies in blend
Added Ingredients	None noted in Fruits/Veggies	None noted	Some vitamins listed	None noted

The DIY Approach: Dehydrated Powders

For those who want to take control of their ingredients and cost completely, creating your own dehydrated fruit and vegetable powders is an option. By using a dehydrator and a blender, you can turn seasonal produce into powders to add to smoothies, soups, or capsules. While this requires more effort, it provides complete transparency and can be the most economical route.

The Verdict on Alternatives

While Balance of Nature has built a strong brand, its price point and history of regulatory issues make it a questionable investment for many consumers. There are several high-quality, cheaper alternatives available, with Simply Nature's Promise being a strong competitor for its similar formula and better transparency. Juice Plus+ offers a premium option with robust research and certification, while Double Wood is an excellent budget-friendly choice. Ultimately, the best alternative depends on your priorities regarding budget, transparency, and nutritional comprehensiveness. A healthy diet rich in fresh produce remains the gold standard, but for those seeking a supplementary boost, these alternatives offer a better balance of cost and quality.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Supplement for Your Budget

It is clear that a cheaper alternative to Balance of Nature exists for those who prioritize budget and transparency. Simply Nature's Promise, Juice Plus+, and Double Wood offer competitive and more affordable options, often with better quality assurances and fewer restrictions. Evaluating your specific needs and priorities, and perhaps even considering a DIY approach, can lead you to a supplement that provides the nutritional support you seek without the high cost. Remember, supplements are meant to complement a healthy diet, not replace it, and the best way to ensure optimal nutrition is through consuming a variety of fresh, whole foods.

How to Choose the Best Alternative for You

1. Determine your budget. Decide how much you are willing to spend monthly on a supplement. The alternatives range widely in price.
2. Prioritize transparency. If third-party testing and clear ingredient lists are important, look for brands that make this information easily accessible.
3. Consider your needs. If you need more than just fruit and veggie powders, evaluate whether alternatives include additional components like probiotics or digestive enzymes.
4. Review comparison charts. Use tables like the one above to directly compare features of different brands.
5. Consult a professional. Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have allergies or are on other medications.

Fullscript - Benefits of Fruit And Vegetable Supplements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most direct and cheaper alternative to Balance of Nature?

Simply Nature's Promise Simply Fruits & Veggies is often considered the most direct and cheaper alternative, offering a very similar formula with better transparency and a lower monthly subscription cost.

Are cheaper fruit and vegetable supplements as effective?

The effectiveness of any supplement depends on its ingredients and manufacturing. Many cheaper, reputable brands like Juice Plus+ and Double Wood offer high-quality, third-party tested products, providing a solid nutritional boost for less money.

Why is Balance of Nature so expensive?

Balance of Nature cites its proprietary freeze-drying process and whole-food ingredients as reasons for its high cost. However, a history of regulatory issues and a lack of testing transparency also contribute to consumer skepticism.

Can I make my own fruit and vegetable powder instead?

Yes, you can make your own dehydrated fruit and vegetable powders using a food dehydrator and blender. This gives you complete control over ingredients and is the most cost-effective option.

Do any alternatives have NSF certification for safety?

Yes, Juice Plus+ is NSF certified, meaning it undergoes rigorous third-party testing and adheres to strict quality and purity regulations.

What should I look for when choosing an alternative?

Prioritize transparency by looking for brands that provide clear ingredient lists and publicly available third-party testing. Compare the cost per serving and consider whether you want additional ingredients like probiotics.

Is it better to just eat whole fruits and vegetables?

Yes, health experts agree that eating fresh, whole fruits and vegetables is the best way to get nutrients. Supplements should be used to complement a healthy diet, not replace it, as they often lack fiber and other benefits of whole foods.