The Origins of the Multivitamin: Carl Rehnborg and the Nutrilite Brand
The story of the first multivitamin begins not in a modern laboratory, but with a period of deprivation and observation in China during the early 20th century. Carl F. Rehnborg, an American businessman, spent time in China between 1915 and 1927 and witnessed firsthand the health problems linked to inadequate diets. The impoverished diets of many people lacked fresh fruits and vegetables, leading to nutritional deficiencies. During this time, Rehnborg experimented with creating his own crude nutritional supplements using locally available plants. His experience cultivated a deep-seated belief in the link between a nutrient-dense diet and overall wellness.
Upon returning to the United States in 1927, Rehnborg spent several years refining his ideas. In 1934, he founded the California Vitamin Company and released what is widely considered the first multivitamin/multimineral supplement for sale in the U.S.. The company was later renamed Nutrilite Products, Inc. in 1939.
Early Nutrilite Products and Formulation
Rehnborg’s early product was plant-based, using concentrates from alfalfa, watercress, and parsley to provide vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. He was a pioneer in using sustainable, organic farming methods, a concept far ahead of its time.
His most notable early product was the NUTRILITE XX Food Supplement, first introduced in 1948. This product came in three parts: two bottles of vitamin capsules and a small box of mineral tablets. The inclusion of phytonutrients alongside traditional vitamins and minerals was a hallmark of Rehnborg’s holistic philosophy.
The Evolution of the Commercial Multivitamin
While Nutrilite was the first to market a multivitamin/multimineral supplement, other companies quickly followed suit as the public and government became more aware of vitamin deficiencies. The development of multivitamins was part of a larger historical movement in nutritional science that gained significant traction during the first half of the 20th century.
- Growing Nutritional Awareness: The early 1900s saw a rise in nutritional science, with researchers isolating essential nutrients and proving their importance in preventing diseases like scurvy and rickets.
- Wartime Initiatives: During World War II, governments focused on ensuring adequate nutrition for soldiers and factory workers. The demand for concentrated nutrients accelerated mass production of synthetic vitamins and supplements.
- Marketing and Fortification: The 1940s and 1950s saw a boom in the marketing of multivitamins to the general population, with companies positioning them as "nutritional insurance". Food fortification, such as adding vitamins to flour and milk, also became common practice.
Comparison of Early Multivitamin Pioneers
The title of "first" can be debated based on the definition of a multivitamin. Here is a comparison of key early players:
| Pioneer/Company | Multivitamin Introduced | Key Contribution | Product Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carl F. Rehnborg / Nutrilite (originally California Vitamin Company) | 1934 | First plant-based multivitamin/multimineral supplement for sale in the U.S. | Plant-based capsules and tablets |
| Lederle Laboratories | 1943 | First commercial multivitamin specifically branded as "Vitamins Plus Iron" | Mass-produced vitamins, likely synthetic |
| Miles Laboratories | 1940s | Introduced the popular and affordable "One-A-Day" line of supplements | Simple, easy-to-use tablets |
The Modern Legacy of Nutrilite and Amway
Nutrilite’s business model was also revolutionary. Carl Rehnborg was among the first to develop a multi-level marketing system to distribute his supplements. This direct selling approach would later attract Jay Van Andel and Rich DeVos, who were initially Nutrilite distributors. In 1959, they founded Amway and later acquired Nutrilite Products, Inc. in 1972. Today, the Nutrilite brand continues as Amway’s nutritional arm, emphasizing its "seed to supplement" philosophy.
The Impact and Controversy
The invention of the multivitamin addressed a significant need for accessible nutrition in a world where many suffered from deficiencies. However, the supplement industry has not been without controversy. The benefits of multivitamins for the general population versus those with diagnosed deficiencies are often debated. Additionally, the term "multivitamin" lacks a standard regulatory definition, leading to a wide variation in products on the market.
The story of the first multivitamin is a complex one, involving entrepreneurial spirit, scientific discovery, and evolving consumer needs. While Carl Rehnborg and Nutrilite stand out as the initial pioneers, the landscape of nutritional supplementation was shaped by many contributors over several decades.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the company that created the first multivitamin was Nutrilite, founded by Carl Rehnborg. His innovative approach in 1934 led to the development of the first plant-based multivitamin sold in the U.S., a significant milestone in nutritional history. While later commercial products from companies like Lederle and Miles brought supplements to the masses, Nutrilite's origin marked the beginning of a new era in dietary supplementation. The story highlights the long journey from recognizing nutritional deficiencies to mass-producing convenient supplements.
