Why most Nature Made Vitamin D3 is not vegan
For many years, the production of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplements has been tied to animal products. The most common source is lanolin, a waxy substance derived from sheep's wool. The lanolin is exposed to ultraviolet light, which mimics how vitamin D is produced in the skin. This makes the resulting cholecalciferol non-vegan. Furthermore, many Nature Made softgel products use gelatin for their capsules, which is made from the boiled bones and connective tissues of animals, typically pigs or cattle. While Nature Made offers some tablet forms without gelatin, the active vitamin D3 itself is still derived from lanolin, meaning the product is not suitable for a vegan diet. This means that for individuals committed to a cruelty-free lifestyle, traditional Nature Made D3 is not an option.
The difference between D2 and D3
It's important to understand the two main types of vitamin D found in supplements: D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol). Historically, D2 was the only plant-derived option for vegans, sourced from irradiated yeast or mushrooms. However, research has shown that D3 is significantly more effective at raising and maintaining vitamin D levels in the blood. This presented a dilemma for vegans who wanted the more bioavailable form of the vitamin. Fortunately, modern advancements in supplementation have introduced a new source for D3 that is entirely plant-based.
The rise of vegan vitamin D3 from lichen
The solution for vegans wanting the benefits of D3 came from a unique source: lichen. Lichen is a symbiotic organism composed of algae and fungus, and certain species naturally produce D3 when exposed to light. This discovery paved the way for the creation of truly vegan D3 supplements. Brands now produce D3 from sustainably wild-harvested or grown lichen, providing a clean, plant-based alternative to lanolin-derived D3. This innovative process has made it possible for vegans to access a highly effective form of vitamin D without compromising their ethical standards.
Comparison of D3 sources
To better understand the differences, here is a comparison of the traditional and vegan sources of vitamin D3.
| Feature | Traditional D3 (Lanolin-based) | Vegan D3 (Lichen-based) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Waxy substance from sheep's wool. | Symbiotic organism of algae and fungi. |
| Vegan Status | Not vegan. | 100% vegan. |
| Purity | May have pesticide residue from sheep dips. | Free from pesticides and animal contamination. |
| Sustainability | Linked to the wool industry, raising ethical concerns. | Sourced from sustainably harvested or grown lichen. |
| Effectiveness | High bioavailability, though chemically identical to lichen D3. | High bioavailability, chemically identical to lanolin D3. |
| Common Forms | Often in softgels with gelatin. | Usually available in veggie capsules or sprays. |
Vegan Vitamin D3 brands
As veganism has become more mainstream, numerous brands have introduced high-quality, plant-based D3 supplements. When shopping for vegan D3, always look for products that specify their source as lichen, such as those that carry the Vitashine™ trademark, which is certified by the Vegan Society. Some popular brands offering vegan D3 include:
- Deva: Offers vegan Vitamin D3 in various potencies.
- Naturelo: Sells plant-based D3 from lichen in veggie capsules.
- Doctor's Best: Provides vegan D3 options in vegetable caps.
- Vegetology: Specializes in lichen-sourced D3 supplements, including sprays and tablets.
- Global Healing: Features a line of vegan D3 supplements.
Conclusion: How to find a truly vegan D3
For vegans, the search for a suitable vitamin D3 supplement means looking beyond traditional sources. Most standard vitamin D3, including products from Nature Made, are derived from lanolin or packaged in animal-based gelatin capsules. A truly vegan D3 must specify that it is sourced from plants, most commonly lichen. By checking the ingredient list for the specific source and looking for vegan-certified labeling, you can confidently choose a supplement that supports your health and your ethical commitments. The availability of high-quality, plant-based D3 means that vegans no longer have to compromise on the superior bioavailability of D3 versus D2.
