Comparing Jocko Greens and AG1: What You Need to Know
When evaluating green powders, consumers often weigh multiple factors, including ingredient quality, transparency, cost, and effectiveness. Jocko Greens and AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens) are two prominent players in this market, each with a dedicated following. While both offer a mix of superfoods, adaptogens, and probiotics, their formulas, testing standards, and pricing strategies differ significantly.
Ingredient Quality and Transparency
One of the most notable differences between the two products is ingredient transparency. Jocko Greens prides itself on a fully transparent label, detailing the exact amount of each organic ingredient used in its blends. This allows consumers to see exactly what they're paying for and determine if the dosage is effective for key ingredients like adaptogens. AG1, on the other hand, utilizes proprietary blends. While this may protect their formula, it obscures the specific quantities of each ingredient, making it impossible for consumers to verify effective dosing. Both products use natural sweeteners, but some users report that the stronger flavors of Jocko Greens can be divisive, while AG1's milder taste is generally well-received.
Formulations for Targeted Health Benefits
Beyond basic ingredients, the two greens powders target different aspects of health with their formulations. AG1's formula is more comprehensive, designed to replace multiple supplements like a multivitamin, probiotic, and green powder. AG1 contains a wider array of added vitamins and minerals, often in mega-doses, and includes prebiotics and digestive enzymes for more robust gut support. Jocko Greens, while containing 9 billion CFU of probiotics, notably lacks digestive enzymes and prebiotics, focusing more narrowly on its organic superfood blend and adaptogens.
Digestibility and Side Effects
For some users, the inclusion of probiotics or certain fibers can lead to digestive discomfort. AG1 contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber, which can cause stomach upset in sensitive individuals. Jocko Greens, with its 9 billion CFU blend of 11 probiotic strains, has also been reported by some testers to cause a stomach ache when taken on an empty stomach. It is always recommended to start with a smaller dose to assess tolerance.
Third-Party Testing and Quality Assurance
For athletes and health-conscious individuals, third-party testing is a crucial indicator of product safety and purity. AG1 is NSF Certified for Sport, a rigorous certification that verifies the product is free from banned substances and unsafe levels of contaminants. This provides elite athletes and everyday consumers with a high level of confidence. Jocko Fuel states its products are third-party tested, but does not provide specific lab details or certifications, a point of concern for some reviewers. Both products are produced in cGMP-compliant facilities.
Jocko Greens vs AG1 Comparison Table
| Feature | Jocko Greens | AG1 (Athletic Greens) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Serving | ~$1.66 (one-time) / ~$1.50 (subscription) | ~$3.30 (one-time) / ~$2.63 (subscription) |
| Ingredient Transparency | Fully transparent label, no proprietary blends | Uses proprietary blends, ingredient amounts not fully disclosed |
| Probiotic Count | 9 Billion CFU from 11 strains | 10 Billion CFU from 5 strains |
| Prebiotics | No | Yes (Inulin) |
| Digestive Enzymes | No | Yes (Bromelain) |
| Adaptogens | Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Milk Thistle | Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Eleuthero, and others |
| Added Vitamins/Minerals | Limited declared amounts | Extensive, often mega-dosed |
| Flavors | Peach, Pineapple Coconut | Tropical/Vanilla hints (originally) or other variants |
| Third-Party Testing | Stated, but certification details not public | NSF Certified for Sport |
Which Greens Powder is Right for You?
The decision between Jocko Greens and AG1 ultimately depends on your priorities. If your main concern is budget and transparency, Jocko Greens is the clear winner, offering a lower price point and a fully transparent ingredient list with a solid dose of probiotics and adaptogens. It is an excellent choice for individuals who want an organic, foundational greens supplement without a heavy financial commitment.
However, if you are an elite athlete, have a more flexible budget, or require more comprehensive nutritional support, AG1 has a strong case. Its NSF Certified for Sport status provides peace of mind regarding purity and safety. Furthermore, AG1's inclusion of prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and a wider range of vitamins and minerals makes it a more robust all-in-one supplement. It may offer a more complete solution for those looking to maximize nutritional intake and gut health support, provided the premium cost is not a deterrent.
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Fit
While AG1 offers a highly comprehensive, all-in-one supplement with extensive third-party testing and a powerful probiotic count, it comes with a significantly higher price tag and relies on proprietary blends. Jocko Greens counters with superior ingredient transparency, a lower cost, and a higher diversity of probiotic strains, though it lacks digestive enzymes and robust vitamin fortification. Ultimately, there is no single "better" product; the best choice depends on your specific health goals, budget, and preference for ingredient transparency.
For more in-depth reviews and comparisons, check out analysis from reputable sources like BarBend(https://barbend.com/jocko-greens-vs-athletic-greens/).
