The market for greens powders has exploded, promising a convenient way to boost daily nutrient intake. Two brands have captured significant attention: Bloom Nutrition's Greens & Superfoods and Athletic Greens' AG1. While both offer a blend of nutrients, they target different consumers and have distinct formulations. This in-depth guide dives into the specifics to help you decide which is the right choice for your lifestyle.
AG1: The Premium, Nutrient-Dense Contender
AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens) positions itself as a premium, all-in-one nutritional supplement. It boasts a complex formula with over 75 ingredients, including a wide array of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens. Its robust ingredient profile and higher dosages are designed to provide comprehensive support for gut health, energy, immunity, and stress resilience.
Nutritional Superiority
AG1 contains significantly more vitamins and minerals than Bloom, with well-dosed offerings that often exceed daily recommended values. The product undergoes rigorous third-party testing, including NSF Certified for Sport®, providing a higher degree of assurance regarding ingredient quality, safety, and label accuracy. The formula is engineered for bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb and utilize the nutrients more effectively. AG1 also lists its probiotic count transparently, with a substantial 7.2 billion CFUs advertised per serving.
Flavor and Consistency
AG1 has a singular, earthy flavor with notes of pineapple and vanilla, which some users find easy to drink. It is known for its excellent mixability, dissolving smoothly in water with little grittiness. While not as sweet as Bloom, its taste is generally well-received by those accustomed to greens supplements.
Bloom Nutrition: The Affordable, Flavor-First Alternative
Bloom Nutrition's Greens & Superfoods gained popularity through social media for its variety of appealing flavors and lower price point. It offers a less concentrated formula with about 30 ingredients, primarily targeting general wellness benefits like reduced bloating and improved digestion.
Focus on Palatability and Price
Bloom's main strength is its taste, with numerous flavor options like strawberry kiwi and mango that appeal to those who find the typical earthy greens flavor off-putting. It is significantly more affordable per serving than AG1, making it a great entry point for those new to greens supplements or on a tighter budget. Bloom is also vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Limitations and Transparency
Bloom's formulation is less nutrient-dense than AG1, and it uses proprietary blends without disclosing the exact amount of each individual ingredient. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to assess the potency and effectiveness of the included vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and probiotics. For instance, Bloom doesn't provide a CFU count for its probiotics, and the dosages of key ingredients are often lower than clinically studied amounts. Unlike AG1, Bloom is not third-party tested, which can be a concern for athletes or those prioritizing certified safety and accuracy. Some users also report issues with mixability, experiencing a clumpy or gritty texture.
Bloom vs AG1: At a Glance Comparison Table
| Feature | AG1 (Athletic Greens) | Bloom Nutrition | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nutrient Density | High (75+ ingredients) | Moderate (30+ ingredients) | AG1 |
| Ingredient Transparency | High (DVs provided) | Low (Proprietary blends) | AG1 |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes (NSF Certified for Sport®) | No | AG1 |
| Price per Serving | ~ $3.30+ (Premium) | ~ $1.05+ (Affordable) | Bloom |
| Taste Options | One standard flavor | Multiple flavor options | Bloom |
| Digestive Enzymes | One | Multiple | Bloom |
| Probiotic Potency | High (7.2 billion CFUs) | Undisclosed CFU count | AG1 |
| Adaptogen Potency | High | Low (Underdosed) | AG1 |
Who is Each Supplement Best For?
- AG1 is best for: The dedicated health enthusiast or athlete who wants a comprehensive, all-in-one supplement and is willing to pay a premium for high-quality, transparently-dosed, and third-party tested ingredients. It's for those who want to maximize their nutritional support and aren't heavily swayed by flavor variety.
- Bloom Nutrition is best for: The casual user new to greens powders who is sensitive to the taste of greens and wants an affordable, flavorful option. It can serve as an accessible introduction to green superfood supplements, particularly for those primarily focused on digestive comfort and flavor.
Making Your Choice
Ultimately, your choice depends on your budget and health goals. For maximum nutritional potency, transparency, and safety assurance, AG1 is the clear winner. The high-quality, well-dosed ingredients justify its higher cost. For a palatable, budget-friendly product that offers a basic introduction to greens powders and digestive support, Bloom is a solid option. However, its effectiveness may be limited due to its lower ingredient potency and lack of transparency. Consider what you prioritize most—comprehensive nutrition and verified quality or taste and affordability—to make the best decision.
Conclusion
Choosing between Bloom and AG1 comes down to a trade-off between price and nutritional potency. While Bloom offers an accessible entry point with delicious flavors, AG1 provides a superior, more comprehensive nutritional profile backed by third-party testing. For those serious about investing in a potent, all-in-one supplement, AG1 stands out. For those just testing the waters or focused on taste, Bloom is a viable, lower-cost alternative. Neither product should replace a balanced diet rich in whole foods, but both can serve as supplements to bridge dietary gaps.
How to Take Your Greens Powder
To maximize the benefits of either greens powder, consistency is key. Mix one scoop with 8 to 10 ounces of cold water in a shaker bottle. For those who find the taste challenging, especially with AG1, mixing it into a smoothie with fruits like pineapple or banana can effectively mask the earthy flavor. Bloom's various flavors offer more flexibility for different preferences. It is generally recommended to take greens powders first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, though they can be consumed anytime that works best for your routine.
For more detailed nutritional information on supplements, visit the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements.
