NaturesPlus: Brand History and Mission
Founded in the early 1970s by Gerald Kessler in New York, NaturesPlus was built on the vision of producing high-quality supplements to enhance energy and quality of life. The company, operated under Natural Organics, Inc., has grown significantly over the decades, expanding its product line and international presence. Their mission is encapsulated in the phrase "Manufactured with LOVE," symbolizing a deep commitment to high formulation standards and delivering the quality customers expect.
Quality Control and Certifications
NaturesPlus places a strong emphasis on quality assurance, a critical factor for any supplement brand. They manufacture their products in their own FDA-registered facilities in the USA and adhere to strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Key Accreditations and Certifications:
- NSF GMP Certification: Recognizes that their manufacturing and packaging sites meet the highest GMP standards.
- EcoCert: Adherence to both US and EU organic standards, resulting in a rigorous set of organic quality controls.
- FDA Registered: Natural Organics, Inc. is a long-time registrant with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and has a consistent track record of successful GMP inspections.
- Presidential 'E' Award: NaturesPlus received this award for excellence in contributing to increased U.S. exports.
Note: Some search results mention a different quality mark called "natureplus" related to European building products. This is distinct and unrelated to the supplement brand NaturesPlus.
Product Range and Standout Offerings
NaturesPlus offers a diverse array of over 1,500 products designed for various health needs and demographics. Some of their most popular and well-regarded product lines include:
- Source of Life®: A line of whole-food multivitamins, often praised for its comprehensive formula and use of bioavailable nutrients.
- Animal Parade®: A highly popular line of children's chewable vitamins and supplements, known for its fun animal shapes and natural flavors.
- Hema-Plex®: An iron supplement line featuring synergistic cofactors to support blood health.
- GI Nutra™: Products specifically formulated for digestive wellness and gut health.
Comparison: NaturesPlus vs. a Competitor
| Feature | NaturesPlus (e.g., Source of Life Gold) | Hypothetical Competitor (e.g., MegaFood Daily Multi) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredient Sourcing | Emphasizes whole-food concentrates and bioavailable forms. | Focuses on whole-food sourcing, often with a farm-to-tablet philosophy. |
| Certifications | Multiple, including NSF GMP, FDA-registered, EcoCert. | May vary; often includes NSF, Non-GMO Project Verified, and others. |
| Formulation | Often features proprietary blends and comprehensive nutrient profiles. | Typically uses fewer, more concentrated whole-food ingredients. |
| Product Variety | Very extensive range across all demographics and health concerns. | Typically has a more focused, but still broad, product line. |
| Taste (Chewables) | Generally well-regarded, though subjective. Some mention slight aftertaste. | Can vary significantly depending on natural flavorings used. |
| Pill Size | Some customer reviews note that certain tablets can be large. | Varies by specific product, often smaller tablets or capsules. |
Addressing FDA Warnings in the Philippines
It's important to acknowledge that the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued public health warnings against specific NaturesPlus products. These warnings are related to the products being unregistered with the local regulatory body, not necessarily a failure of the product's quality in and of itself. The advisories highlight the need for consumers to always purchase supplements from authorized, reputable dealers in their specific country to ensure the products meet local importation and registration standards.
For more information on these advisories, consult the Philippine FDA website: https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2024-0448-public-health-warning-against-the-purchase-and-consumption-of-the-unregistered-food-supplement-naturesplus-collagen-peptides-dietary-supplement/
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Customer reviews on various platforms like iHerb tend to be largely positive, with users praising the products' quality ingredients and perceived effectiveness. Many note improvements in energy, focus, and overall well-being. Some feedback points out that certain tablets are large and may be difficult to swallow for some individuals. The consistency of positive reviews over many years indicates a satisfied customer base.
Conclusion: Is NaturesPlus a Good Supplement Brand?
Overall, NaturesPlus appears to be a good supplement brand, backed by a strong commitment to quality, a long history in the industry, and generally positive customer feedback. Their adherence to GMP standards and third-party certifications like NSF provide strong evidence of their manufacturing integrity. While specific product warnings have occurred in certain countries due to registration issues, these do not diminish the brand's overall standing for quality products. As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare professional is always advisable, but NaturesPlus presents a reliable and well-regarded option for consumers seeking whole-food-based nutrition.
