Which is better, athletic greens or Primal Greens?

According to studies, roughly 90% of US adults don't meet their daily fruit and vegetable intake, leading many to consider supplements like greens powders. But when comparing premium options, a common question is: which is better, athletic greens or Primal Greens?

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of Athletic Greens (AG1) and Primal Greens, analyzing their ingredient profiles, price, taste, third-party testing, and overall value.

Key Points

• Price: Primal Greens is significantly more affordable, costing less than half the price per serving compared to Athletic Greens.

• Ingredient Count: Athletic Greens features over 75 ingredients, offering a more extensive nutritional profile than Primal Greens' approximately 50 ingredients.

• Third-Party Testing: Athletic Greens is NSF Certified for Sport, a robust certification for athletes, while Primal Greens is made in a GMP-certified facility and tested for safety but lacks this specific credential.

• Probiotic Content: AG1 contains 7.2 billion CFUs of probiotics, providing a higher dose than the 3.5 billion CFUs in Primal Greens.

• Taste & Mixability: Primal Greens is generally praised for its milder taste and better mixability compared to AG1, which can be more earthy and may settle.

• Allergens: AG1 contains soy, whereas Primal Greens is formulated without common allergens, although it is manufactured on shared equipment.

Introduction to Greens Powders

Greens powders are dietary supplements made from a blend of dehydrated, powdered fruits, vegetables, and other whole-food ingredients. They are designed to help fill nutritional gaps, especially for those who struggle to eat enough produce. Two of the most popular brands in this market are Athletic Greens (AG1) and Primal Greens (from Primal Harvest), both offering a convenient way to boost nutrient intake. While they share many similarities, key differences in formulation, quality control, and cost can influence your decision. Here, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed choice.

Athletic Greens vs. Primal Greens: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Ingredient and Nutrient Profile

AG1 and Primal Greens both boast an impressive list of ingredients, including superfoods, adaptogens, and blends for digestive and immune health. However, their formulas differ significantly in terms of quantity and focus.

• Athletic Greens (AG1): This formula is known for its extensive list of over 75 vitamins, minerals, whole-food-sourced superfoods, and adaptogens. AG1's formula is designed to be a comprehensive daily nutritional supplement. Reviewers note it contains high doses of critical vitamins and minerals, including ten that provide 100% or more of the recommended Daily Value. The probiotic blend is also a key feature, providing 7.2 billion CFUs per serving.
• Primal Greens: Primal Greens offers a simpler formula with around 50 ingredients, focusing more on whole-food sources and digestive enzymes than AG1. It contains a proprietary superfood, antioxidant, and mushroom blend, along with a digestive complex and a probiotic blend with 3.5 billion CFUs, half the amount found in AG1. Some dietitians appreciate its more moderate vitamin and mineral levels, which may be more suitable for the average person.

Taste and Mixability

Taste is subjective, but reviews provide a good indicator of what to expect.

• AG1: Described as having a tropical, mildly fruity flavor with hints of pineapple and vanilla, though with an earthy undertone. It mixes reasonably well, but some users report that the powder can settle at the bottom if not consumed quickly.
• Primal Greens: Testers report a more mellow, less earthy taste than AG1, with a pleasant sweetness that helps mask the 'green' flavor. It is praised for its superior mixability, with less reported residue.

Pricing and Value

Cost is a major differentiator between these two products.

• AG1: At around $99 for a 30-serving pouch, the cost per serving is significantly higher, at roughly $3.30. This reflects its more comprehensive formula and premium positioning. Subscription services can reduce the price, but it remains a more expensive option.
• Primal Greens: Considered the more budget-friendly choice, with a cost per serving that can be less than half of AG1's price. This makes it a more accessible option for those mindful of their supplement spending.

Third-Party Testing and Quality

Independent quality testing is crucial for supplements, ensuring the ingredients and dosages are accurate and free from contaminants.

• AG1: Holds the prestigious NSF Certified for Sport certification, which is recognized by major athletic organizations. This means every batch is tested for banned substances and contaminants, and the contents match the label. It is manufactured in a TGA-registered facility in New Zealand, which is held to strict initial safety standards.
• Primal Greens: Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility and undergoes its own internal third-party safety testing. However, it lacks the more rigorous 'NSF Certified for Sport' credential that AG1 carries.

Target Audience and Fitness Goals

Your personal health goals may guide you toward one product over the other.

• AG1: The high vitamin and mineral content, extensive ingredient list, and 'NSF Certified for Sport' status make it the ideal choice for serious athletes or individuals who want the most comprehensive, all-in-one nutritional support possible.
• Primal Greens: A great option for those seeking a quality greens powder at a more affordable price point. Its milder taste and focus on digestive enzymes may also appeal to those with sensitive stomachs or specific digestive health goals.

Comparison Table

Feature	Athletic Greens (AG1)	Primal Greens
Ingredients	Over 75 (vitamins, minerals, superfoods, adaptogens)	~50 (superfoods, digestive enzymes, probiotics)
Probiotics	7.2 billion CFUs (per serving)	3.5 billion CFUs (per serving)
Cost per Serving	Significantly higher (~$3.30)	Lower (~$1.67)
Third-Party Testing	NSF Certified for Sport	GMP-certified facility, third-party tested
Taste	Tropical fruit, vanilla, with earthy notes	Milder, sweet, less earthy
Mixability	Good, but can settle over time	Superior, less likely to settle
Allergens	Contains soy	Allergen-free (processed on shared machinery)

Which Greens Powder Is Better for You?

The choice between AG1 and Primal Greens ultimately comes down to your individual priorities. If your budget is a primary concern, Primal Greens offers a solid nutritional foundation at a significantly lower cost. Its milder flavor and superior mixability may also be preferable for daily consumption. However, if you are a competitive athlete or someone who prioritizes the most comprehensive ingredient profile and highest level of third-party quality assurance, Athletic Greens is the superior choice, despite its higher price.

For a more in-depth, feature-by-feature breakdown, you can read the detailed review from Innerbody, a trusted health and wellness resource.

Conclusion

While both greens powders are high-quality supplements that can effectively support your health, they cater to different needs and budgets. Athletic Greens (AG1) is the premium, all-inclusive option for those seeking maximum nutritional density and rigorous third-party testing. Primal Greens is a more affordable and accessible alternative that provides excellent value without compromising on core superfood and digestive support. By considering your budget, taste preferences, and health priorities, you can determine which product is the best fit for your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AG1 really worth the higher price?

For those who prioritize a more comprehensive formula, higher probiotic count, and the peace of mind that comes with NSF Certified for Sport testing, the higher price of Athletic Greens may be justified. For those on a budget, Primal Greens offers excellent value.

Which greens powder has a better taste?

Taste is subjective, but many reviewers prefer the flavor of Primal Greens. It is generally considered less earthy and has a subtle sweetness, making it more palatable for some. AG1 is described as having a tropical fruit flavor with earthy notes.

Is Primal Greens suitable for athletes?

Primal Greens is a high-quality supplement, but it is not NSF Certified for Sport like AG1. While generally safe, athletes subject to testing for banned substances may prefer the added assurance of AG1's certification.

Can Athletic Greens and Primal Greens replace my daily fruits and vegetables?

Greens powders are intended to supplement your diet, not replace whole foods. Both products can help fill nutritional gaps, but they should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables.

How do the probiotic levels compare?

Athletic Greens (AG1) contains more than double the probiotics of Primal Greens, with 7.2 billion CFUs per serving compared to Primal Greens' 3.5 billion CFUs.

Which powder has better mixability?

According to reviews, Primal Greens mixes more easily and is less likely to settle at the bottom of a drink compared to Athletic Greens.

Which is better for gut health?

Both products contain ingredients to support gut health, including probiotics and digestive enzymes. AG1 has a higher probiotic count, while Primal Greens contains a greater number of digestive enzymes.