A Deep Dive into the OLLY Brand
Founded in 2013, OLLY has grown to become a recognizable name in the supplement industry, known for its vibrantly packaged gummy and softgel products. The brand was acquired by Unilever in 2019 and continues to emphasize making wellness both accessible and enjoyable. The company manufactures its products in facilities that comply with FDA's Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) and utilizes third-party testing for safety and quality. Many of its products are also certified by NSF International.
OLLY Multivitamin Formulations: What's Inside?
OLLY offers a range of multivitamins tailored to different demographics, including women, men, and children.
- Women's Multi Gummies: These typically feature B vitamins for cellular energy, vitamins A, C, and E for antioxidant support, plus Biotin and Folic Acid. Customer reviews often praise the taste, but some have noted negative changes after recent formula updates.
- Ultra Strength Women's Multi Softgels + Omega-3s: A sugar-free alternative to the gummies, these softgels include Omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, along with biotin and other key vitamins and minerals. Reviews are often positive, praising the ease of swallowing and minty flavor, though some find the packaging difficult to open.
- Men's Multi Gummies: Formulated for men's overall wellness, these gummies typically contain B vitamins for cellular energy, and antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E.
Key Considerations for OLLY Multivitamins
Despite the brand's positive aspects, there are several points for consumers to consider before purchasing.
- Formulation Doses: Healthline notes that while OLLY uses clinically-studied ingredients, some products contain lower doses than those used in research, which may impact their overall effectiveness. For instance, a probiotic supplement had a significantly lower CFU count than doses shown to be effective in studies.
- Added Sugar: Most OLLY gummies contain 1–2 grams of added sugar per serving, which can be a drawback for those on low-sugar or ketogenic diets.
- Absorption Rate: Compared to oral sprays, gummies generally have a lower absorption rate because they must be broken down by the digestive system. This can delay the effects and reduce overall bioavailability.
- Customer Feedback on Formula Changes: Many loyal customers have expressed significant disappointment over recent formula changes to certain gummy products. Complaints include an unpleasant taste, strong chemical smell, and a different texture.
- Not Vegan: Many of OLLY's gummy products contain gelatin derived from beef or pork, making them unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians. The company does offer vegan options in its capsule line, however.
Comparison: OLLY Gummies vs. Traditional Capsules
| Feature | OLLY Gummies | OLLY Ultra Strength Softgels |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation | Often contains a general blend of vitamins. | Higher potency with specific inclusions like Omega-3s. |
| Added Sugar | Contains 1–2g of added sugar per serving. | Sugar-free. |
| Absorption | Lower and slower due to digestion. | Potentially higher bioavailability than gummies. |
| Vegan-Friendly | No, contains gelatin. | Yes, capsules are generally vegetarian or vegan. |
| Taste | Sweet and fruity, but taste/texture may be inconsistent. | Flavorless or with a hint of mint/lemon. |
| Ease of Use | Chewable, great for those who dislike swallowing pills. | Small, easy to swallow, but some find the bottle difficult to open. |
Conclusion: Is OLLY a good multivitamin brand?
OLLY is a reputable, third-party-tested brand known for its delicious gummy and convenient softgel multivitamins. For individuals who dislike swallowing pills, the tasty gummy format can promote consistency and make taking vitamins a more pleasant experience. The brand also offers a variety of formulations for different needs and has a solid reputation backed by certifications like NSF.
However, whether OLLY is a "good" brand for you depends on your priorities. Critics and experts point out that some gummy formulations have lower concentrations of active ingredients than found in clinical studies, and the added sugar is a consideration for some. Recent formula changes have also generated negative customer feedback regarding taste and texture. Furthermore, the classic gummy line is not suitable for vegans due to its gelatin content. For those seeking maximum nutrient potency, zero added sugar, or a vegan-friendly product, the Softgel line or another brand might be a more suitable choice.
Ultimately, OLLY is a legitimate brand that prioritizes making wellness accessible, but it's essential to check the specific product's ingredients and your personal dietary needs before making a decision. You can find their products and detailed ingredient lists on their official website.
