Formulation Philosophy: All-in-One vs. Whole Foods
The most significant distinction between AG1 and Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens lies in their core formulation strategy. AG1 is designed as a comprehensive, 'all-in-one' supplement, combining a greens powder with a multivitamin, multimineral, probiotics, digestive enzymes, adaptogens, and functional mushrooms. It leverages potent extracts to achieve high concentrations of various nutrients. This broad-spectrum approach aims to simplify a daily supplement routine into a single scoop.
In contrast, Field of Greens focuses squarely on providing powdered, whole-food-sourced fruits and vegetables. The formula is built on real, desiccated produce, including a mix of greens, reds, and metabolic blends, with a strong emphasis on providing nutrients as they are found in nature. This approach prioritizes a natural, food-based source of nutrition rather than a synthetic, all-in-one product.
Ingredient Sourcing and Transparency
AG1’s formula is extensive, containing over 75 ingredients, with a mix of organic and non-organic sources, and utilizes proprietary blends. While it features a strong probiotic blend and adaptogens, the exact amount of each component within the proprietary blends is not disclosed. This lack of transparency can be a concern for consumers who want to know precise ingredient dosages.
Field of Greens, while also using proprietary blends, bases its formulation on real, whole foods. It is USDA-certified organic, which ensures that at least 95% of its ingredients are organic. The product includes organic greens, an antioxidant reds blend, and a metabolic blend with ingredients like ginger and turmeric. However, similar to AG1, the use of proprietary blends means the specific quantities of each fruit and vegetable are not listed. A notable difference is that some third-party reviewers point out Field of Greens includes a prebiotic but lacks the robust probiotic and digestive enzyme blends found in AG1.
Cost and Value Proposition
AG1 is a premium-priced supplement, reflecting its all-in-one design and inclusion of a wider array of specialty ingredients like adaptogens, mushrooms, and a more potent probiotic and enzyme blend. The higher cost is justified by its comprehensive nature and third-party certifications, such as NSF Certified for Sport. For those seeking a single product to replace multiple supplements, the cost might be more manageable.
Field of Greens is generally more affordable on a per-serving basis. It offers a less complex and more targeted formula that focuses on fruits and vegetables. The value comes from its USDA organic certification and the use of whole-food powders. However, it lacks third-party testing, which some consumers may prioritize for verification of purity and potency. This makes Field of Greens a potentially better value for those prioritizing organic, whole-food nutrition over an expansive, all-encompassing formula.
Taste and Palatability
Taste is a highly subjective factor, but general feedback indicates a difference in flavor profiles. AG1's flavor, often described as pineapple-vanilla, can be polarizing, partly due to its high spirulina content. Field of Greens, by contrast, is often noted for having a less 'grassy' taste due to its inclusion of a 'reds' blend of fruits and a stevia sweetener. It is available in multiple flavors, including Wildberry and Lemon-Lime, offering more options for different palates.
Comparison Table: AG1 vs. Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens
| Feature | AG1 (Athletic Greens) | Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation | All-in-one comprehensive supplement with greens, extracts, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, enzymes, adaptogens, and mushrooms. | Whole-food focused, uses desiccated organic fruits and vegetables. |
| Transparency | Uses proprietary blends, obscuring specific ingredient amounts. | Also uses proprietary blends, but contains USDA organic, whole-food ingredients. |
| Third-Party Testing | NSF Certified for Sport, ensuring purity and safety. | Not third-party tested, may be a drawback for some users. |
| Gut Health Support | Comprehensive support with a robust blend of probiotics and digestive enzymes. | Includes a prebiotic fiber (inulin) but lacks the extensive probiotic and enzyme blend of AG1. |
| Cost | High-end pricing, reflecting its comprehensive formula and certifications. | Generally more affordable on a per-serving basis. |
| Taste | Often described as pineapple-vanilla with a strong greens flavor. | Multiple fruit-forward flavors available, designed to be more palatable. |
| Key Ingredients | Spirulina, adaptogens, mushroom complex, comprehensive vitamins/minerals. | Organic fruits (reds blend), organic vegetables, inulin, metabolic blend. |
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
For the individual seeking an all-encompassing, premium supplement with validated third-party testing and a wide range of ingredients including adaptogens and functional mushrooms, AG1 is the more fitting option. Its formula is designed for those who want to cover all nutritional bases with a single daily scoop. The higher price point and proprietary blends are trade-offs for its comprehensiveness and certifications.
For those who prefer a more targeted approach, prioritizing whole-food, organic ingredients without the extensive extra supplements, Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens is the better choice. It is a more budget-friendly option, providing a significant boost of fruit and vegetable nutrition, and comes in a variety of flavors. It is important to note the lack of third-party testing and the less extensive gut health support when compared to AG1. The decision ultimately hinges on your personal health priorities, budget, and preference for transparency versus convenience.
Conclusion: Your Nutritional Compass
Both AG1 and Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens offer a convenient way to boost your daily nutrient intake, but they are not interchangeable products. AG1 is the high-end, all-in-one powerhouse for those who want a single, scientifically validated product to cover a wide spectrum of nutritional needs. Field of Greens is the more direct, organic, and whole-food-focused option for people who want to supplement their diet with a concentrated source of fruits and vegetables at a lower price. Evaluate your priorities, consider your budget, and choose the greens powder that aligns with your specific wellness journey.