Insights from Nature

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts face a unique challenge when choosing supplements: avoiding products contaminated with banned substances. Even trace amounts can jeopardize health, performance, or eligibility in professional sports.That’s why the Informed Choice and Informed Sport certifications exist. These globally recognized programs provide independent testing that ensures supplements are free from prohibited substances and manufactured to the highest safety standards. Fo

Supplements are not only about nutrition — they are also about values, culture, and faith. For Jewish and Muslim consumers, dietary choices must align with Kosher or Halal laws. As supplement use grows in the U.S., certifications that confirm these standards have become increasingly important.Kosher and Halal certifications ensure supplements are made with approved ingredients and processed in ways that meet religious requirements. For millions of Americans, these seals provi

The rise of plant-based lifestyles has reshaped the supplement industry in the U.S. More consumers than ever are avoiding animal-derived ingredients — not only in their food but also in their vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.That’s why Vegan and Vegetarian certifications have become so important. These independent seals confirm that a supplement truly meets plant-based standards, giving consumers confidence that what they’re buying aligns with their lifestyle and value

The Non-GMO Project Verified seal has become one of the most recognizable certifications in the U.S. Whether you’re buying herbal capsules, protein powders, or probiotics, seeing the butterfly logo on the label signals transparency and trust. Let’s explore what this certification means for supplements and why it’s becoming a key factor in purchasing decisions.

NSF provides one of the most trusted certification programs in the supplement industry. Their seal on a bottle signals that the product has been rigorously tested for purity, safety, and accurate labeling. For athletes, the NSF Certified for Sport® program is a gold standard, ensuring supplements are free from banned substances.

In an industry where supplements do not require FDA approval before being sold, independent verification is critical. That’s where the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) steps in. Their rigorous testing and certification process ensures that what’s on the label truly matches what’s inside the bottle.

When browsing food labels or reading about supplements, you may come across the phrase “GRAS” — Generally Recognized as Safe. But what does this FDA designation actually mean? For U.S. consumers, GRAS is an important concept. It tells you whether an ingredient has been reviewed and considered safe for its intended use in food. From common spices like cinnamon and cloves to newer food additives, GRAS status determines what makes it onto supermarket shelves.