Garden of Life's Core Ingredient Philosophy
Garden of Life is built upon a philosophy of using 'clean,' raw, organic, and whole food ingredients in its extensive range of dietary supplements. The term 'raw' signifies that ingredients are processed at low temperatures, generally below 115°F, to preserve the integrity of enzymes and other nutrients that can be damaged by heat. By prioritizing certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients, the company aims to avoid synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms. The emphasis on whole foods means that nutrients are derived from real fruits, vegetables, and plants, rather than synthetic compounds.
Raw Organic Protein Line
The protein powders from Garden of Life use a blend of sprouted legumes, grains, and seeds for a complete amino acid profile. Common components include organic pea protein, sprouted brown rice protein, and sprouts from various organic seeds. These products often contain a Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend to aid digestion, with strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus. Flavoring is typically from organic sources like vanilla, sweetened with organic stevia.
Vitamin Code Multivitamin Ingredients
The Vitamin Code multivitamins feature nutrients derived from a blend of fermented and powdered organic fruits and vegetables. This blend can include over two dozen items such as organic apples, beets, broccoli, carrots, and spinach. Specific formulas may add targeted nutrients like calcium from marine algae. Like the protein powders, Vitamin Code products also include a Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend.
Dr. Formulated Probiotics Ingredients
Garden of Life's Dr. Formulated probiotic line focuses on specific probiotic strains for targeted health benefits. These proprietary blends contain various Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, such as Lactobacillus reuteri. Organic prebiotic fiber, often from acacia or potato starch, is included to nourish the gut bacteria. The capsules are typically made from non-GMO vegetable cellulose and are free from unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.
Comparison of Garden of Life Product Ingredients
Here's a comparison highlighting ingredient differences between two product types:
| Ingredient Category | Raw Organic Protein (e.g., Vanilla) | Vitamin Code Women 50 & Wiser Multi |
|---|---|---|
| Core Source | Organic protein blend from sprouted seeds, legumes, and grains (pea, rice, chia, flax). | Food-created vitamins from organic fruit and vegetable blends (apple, beet, broccoli, carrot, spinach). |
| Protein | High protein content (e.g., 22g per serving). | Low or no protein; focus is on vitamins and minerals. |
| Vitamins | Added whole-food fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). | A comprehensive range of food-created vitamins, including B-complex, C, D3, E, and K2. |
| Minerals | Generally included as part of the whole food ingredients. | Includes a targeted list of minerals like Zinc, Selenium, and Chromium. |
| Fiber | Contains a blend of fiber from organic sprouted ingredients. | Contains a Raw Organic Fruit & Vegetable Blend which includes natural fiber. |
| Probiotics/Enzymes | Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend for digestion. | Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend for digestion. |
| Flavoring/Sweeteners | Organic stevia, organic flavors, sea salt. | Typically unflavored; capsules may be opened and mixed with juice. |
Conclusion: A Commitment to Clean Ingredients
Garden of Life's ingredients demonstrate a commitment to raw, whole food, and organic sources. While specific components vary by product function, the brand consistently emphasizes clean, traceable ingredients and includes probiotics and digestive enzymes. Consumers can find detailed ingredient lists on individual product pages.
For more details on their sourcing and organic practices, visit the Garden of Life Organics page.
Frequently Asked Questions about Garden of Life Ingredients
1. Are all Garden of Life ingredients organic? No, not all products are exclusively organic. Many lines are USDA Certified Organic, but others mix organic and non-GMO ingredients. Always check the specific product label.
2. What is a 'raw' ingredient in Garden of Life products? 'Raw' means processed at low temperatures (below 115°F) to preserve enzymes and nutrients, a core principle for many protein powders and multivitamins.
3. Do Garden of Life products contain probiotics? Yes, many products, including protein powders, multivitamins, and dedicated probiotics, contain added probiotic and enzyme blends.
4. Is Garden of Life suitable for vegans? Many products are Certified Vegan, particularly plant-based proteins. However, some, like fish oil, are not. Look for 'Vegan' certification on the label.
5. Are Garden of Life supplements free from common allergens? Garden of Life aims to produce products without common allergens like dairy or soy. However, trace amounts may be present due to manufacturing or agricultural processes. Always check allergen warnings on the label.
6. What are the protein sources in Garden of Life protein powders? Protein powders are plant-based, from organic sprouted grains, seeds, and legumes, including peas, sprouted brown rice, and other sprouted seeds.
7. How do the 'Vitamin Code' ingredients differ from standard multivitamins? Vitamin Code products use 'food-created nutrients' from whole food fruit and vegetable bases, mimicking natural nutrient forms, unlike synthetic vitamins in standard supplements.
8. What sweeteners does Garden of Life use? Garden of Life avoids added sugars and artificial sweeteners, using natural options like organic stevia leaf extract and organic flavors.
