Navigating the world of nutritional supplements can be overwhelming, with countless options and varying levels of quality. To make sure you’re investing in products that are safe and effective, here are key factors to consider, especially regarding third-party testing and label transparency. These guidelines will help you select supplements that genuinely meet label claims and are manufactured to the highest standards.
Here’s 4 things you should be looking for when shopping for Nutritional Supplements:
- Verification of Label Claims: Independent third-party testing ensures that the supplement actually contains the ingredients listed on the label in the advertised amounts. This process can help confirm the supplement's potency and purity, which is critical since mislabeling can be common in the industry. Look for the phrase “Label Claim Verified” on the label, this statement signals that the product has undergone independent testing.
- Microbiology Testing to Ensure Safety from Pathogens: Third-party testing is also about what should NOT be in the bottle. Testing for pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus ensures that the supplement won’t introduce harmful bacteria into your system. This testing should be standard for all reputable brands, but verifying it through third-party certification adds another layer of trustworthiness.
- Heavy Metal Testing to Avoid Toxicity: Heavy metal accumulation in the body can have severe health implications over time. Heavy metals are often found in soil and water, meaning some natural ingredients, like herbs or minerals, could be at risk. Testing for heavy metals ensures that the raw materials used are safe and purified before production. High-quality supplement manufacturers will ensure their products are tested for heavy metals by third-party labs.
- Visible Test Results: Some companies go the extra mile by posting testing results on their website. This level of transparency allows consumers to view test results for specific batches and ingredients, giving even more confidence in the product’s integrity.
Third-party testing is one of the best indicators of a supplement's quality and safety and since third-party labs operate independently of the manufacturer, their findings are unbiased. When a product passes third-party testing, it’s a good sign that the manufacturer prioritizes product quality and consumer trust over cutting corners.
Quality supplements are an investment in your health, and these steps will help you choose products that support your wellness journey.
Here’s an example of what the third-party testing should look like:
Jigsaw Health delivers only the highest quality nutritional supplements. Every batch of our products is triple-tested, and the third-party lab results are posted online for all to see. We believe that what’s on the label is what should be in the bottle, and nothing else.
