In the arena of fitness supplements, the quest for optimal performance and results often leads individuals down a maze of flashy labels and enticing promises. Understanding the distinction between proprietary blends and non-proprietary blends is paramount for consumers to make informed choices that align with their fitness goals. NPL’s Andy Moore helps consumers decode the labels of fitness supplements.
A proprietary blend, characterised by its elusive ingredient quantities under names like ‘Maximum Performance Blend’ or ‘Muscle Matrix Blend’, presents a veil of mystery to consumers. While the label may list all components, the lack of specific dosages raises concerns about efficacy. In contrast, non-proprietary blends offer full transparency, divulging each ingredient and its exact dosage. This transparency ensures consumers know precisely what they are putting into their bodies, empowering them to make educated decisions about their supplementation.
Advocating for transparency
It is important to advocate for non-proprietary blends as a standard practice in the health and fitness supplement industry. Transparency is crucial in fostering trust between manufacturers and consumers. Providing clear information about each ingredient and its exact measurement underscores a product’s commitment to delivering high-quality and effective products. Over and above full disclosure, to ensure safety and uphold stringent manufacturing standards, products should undergo thorough third-party testing in internationally accredited facilities.
Non-proprietary blends reign supreme
Products formulated with non-proprietary blends offer several distinct advantages:
- Accuracy: With exact dosages clearly stated, you can trust that each ingredient contributes meaningfully to your fitness journey.
- Trust: Products using proprietary blends often use higher doses of cheaper, less effective ingredients and tiny amounts of the ingredients that matter, just to put it on the label as a claim. Non-proprietary blends protect customers from being misled.
- Informed decision-making: Armed with comprehensive information, you can tailor your supplementation to your specific needs, optimising your performance and results in direct correlation to your fitness goal.
Customised supplement regimens
Selecting the right supplements hinges on consumers understanding their unique goals and requirements. Whether training for endurance events like the Comrades Marathon, aiming to build muscle mass, or embarking on a weight loss journey, a consumer’s supplementation should align with his or her objectives. Consumers should also consider consulting with a nutritionist or fitness professional to tailor a regimen that effectively complements their endeavours.
Navigating the realm of fitness supplements demands discernment and diligence. By prioritising transparency and opting for non-proprietary blends, consumers empower themselves to make choices that propel them closer to their fitness aspirations. Remember, a supplement regimen should be as individualised as one’s fitness journey, so consumers are encouraged to choose wisely to embark on their path to peak performance with confidence.
About the author
Andy Moore holds an MSc in dietetics and is currently the R&D and Quality Control Manager at NPL. She spearheads new product development for FMCG and pharmaceutical brands within the NPL group, including CAMs, sports supplements and vitamins. She ensures compliance with food safety and pharmaceutical regulations (SAHPRA) and supports strategic product launches with technical insights. Passionate about wellness and nutrition, Andy’s extensive experience in R&D, commercial strategy, formulation development, and QA management drives her commitment to improving consumer health and wellbeing. Her past roles include key positions at Glowing Sky Distributors, Powdermix Technologies, and USN SA.
