What Makes a Supplement Brand Reputable?
Evaluating a supplement brand goes beyond a single product. A truly reliable brand demonstrates a steadfast commitment to quality control, transparency, sourcing, and affordability. For over 50 years, NOW Foods has been a major player in the natural products space, known for its extensive product catalog and consumer-friendly pricing. But does its affordable price tag come at a cost to its quality? To determine if NOW Brand is a good brand, we must examine its foundational principles and processes.
History and Mission
Founded by Elwood Richard in 1968, NOW began as a small Chicago health food store operation dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality natural products. This founding principle of delivering value without compromising on quality continues to guide the family-owned company today. NOW is also guided by science and actively invests in a 150-person quality team to ensure product integrity.
Quality Control and In-House Testing
One of NOW's major strengths is its rigorous in-house quality control. Unlike many brands that outsource all testing, NOW owns and operates state-of-the-art laboratories where they conduct thousands of tests each month. Raw ingredients are tested for identity, purity, and potency, while finished products are checked for contaminants, including heavy metals and microbes. The company also runs an industry-leading testing program that has exposed numerous instances of fraud and quality issues among competitors on online marketplaces.
Understanding Third-Party Certifications
While NOW's in-house testing is extensive, it's important to understand how they use third-party verification. Not every product is third-party tested, which can be a drawback for some consumers seeking external validation for every supplement. However, NOW does hold several notable certifications for its manufacturing processes and specific products:
- UL Solutions Certification: Confirms that NOW's manufacturing facilities meet and exceed current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards as defined by the FDA.
- Informed-Sport Certified: Many products in the 'NOW Sports' line carry this certification, which ensures they have been tested for banned substances, making them a trusted option for competitive athletes.
- Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO): NOW offers certified gluten-free products that meet GFCO's strict 10 ppm or less gluten standards.
Comparing NOW with Other Top Brands
| To put NOW's value proposition in perspective, let's compare its approach to testing and certification with other well-regarded supplement brands. | Feature | NOW Foods | Pure Encapsulations | Thorne | Garden of Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Affordable ($–$$) | Higher-End ($–$$$) | Higher-End ($–$$$$) | Mid-Range ($–$$$) | |
| In-House Testing | Extensive in-house testing for safety and potency | Primarily relies on third-party testing | Extensive in-house testing | Extensive in-house testing | |
| Third-Party Testing | Selective (e.g., Informed-Sport for athletes) | All products are third-party tested | Selective (e.g., NSF Certified for Sport) | All products are third-party tested (e.g., Informed Choice) | |
| Certifications | UL Solutions, GMP, GFCO, Informed-Sport | NSF, GFCO certified facilities | NSF certified facilities, NSF Certified for Sport | Informed Choice, NSF Certified for Sport, Certified Organic |
Customer Feedback and Overall Reputation
Customer reviews for NOW products are generally very positive, with many users praising the brand's quality and value. Specific products, such as their Magnesium Citrate and Omega-3 Fish Oil, are frequently recommended. While there are occasional reports of minor issues, such as capsule size or taste preferences, these are not uncommon for supplements and do not reflect poorly on the brand's overall quality. The brand's long history and commitment to consumer protection have earned it a strong reputation as a trusted provider of reliable, accessible wellness products. For further comparison, see the dietitian's review on Healthline.
What are some popular NOW supplements?
Some of NOW's most popular and well-regarded products include:
- NOW Magnesium Citrate: Supports muscle relaxation and nerve function.
- NOW Omega-3 Fish Oil: Promotes heart and brain health.
- NOW Vitamin D3: Supports immune function and bone strength.
- NOW Sports Creatine Monohydrate: Certified by Informed-Sport for athletes.
Conclusion: Is NOW Brand a good brand of supplements?
Yes, NOW Brand is widely considered a good and reputable brand of supplements. Its decades-long history, robust in-house testing, adherence to GMP regulations, and transparent approach to quality are commendable, especially given its affordable price point. While not all products are third-party tested, the company's selective use of certifications like Informed-Sport for specific lines adds an extra layer of trust where it matters most. For budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable, high-quality supplements backed by solid manufacturing practices, NOW is an excellent choice.
