How to Choose the Right Supplement Brand (and Spot the Fakes)

Why Choosing the Right Brand Matters

Supplements aren’t regulated as tightly as pharmaceutical drugs. This leaves room for fake products, underdosed ingredients, and unsafe manufacturing. Choosing the right brand ensures:

• You get the correct dose and quality of ingredients
• You're not exposed to harmful fillers or contaminants
• You're investing in a product that works as intended

1. Look for Transparency on Labels

Trustworthy brands list the full ingredient breakdown, dosage, and even the source (like plant extract % or standardized ingredients).

• Avoid 'proprietary blends' — they often hide underdosed ingredients
• Check for ingredient quantity, not just fancy names

2. Verify Certifications and Testing

Genuine supplement companies go through 3rd-party testing and maintain regulatory standards.

• Look for FSSAI registration (India), GMP certification, or ISO compliance
• Third-party tested badges (e.g. NSF, Informed Choice) = higher trust
• Some brands publish batch-wise COA (Certificate of Analysis)

3. Research the Brand’s Backing

Who is behind the supplement brand matters. Look for:

• In-house experts (nutritionists, scientists, doctors)
• Clinical references or research studies
• Transparency about manufacturing partners

4. Ingredient Quality and Bioavailability

It’s not just what’s inside — it’s how your body absorbs it.

• Look for clinically studied forms: e.g. Curcumin C3 Complex vs regular turmeric
• Avoid cheap fillers like talc, titanium dioxide, artificial colors
• Prefer plant-based, non-GMO, or allergen-free where applicable

5. Customer Reviews and Real Results

A strong reputation is built over time, not through one viral post.

• Check for verified reviews on platforms like Amazon or brand websites
• Look for consistent user outcomes, not just 5-star ratings
• Watch out for fake reviews or bot-like language

6. Price vs Value: Don’t Fall for Cheap

Supplements that are significantly cheaper than the competition usually cut corners.

• Underdosed actives or unverified sources
• No clinical-grade ingredients
• Low bioavailability or poor manufacturing

7. Red Flags of Fake or Low-Quality Supplements

Common signs you’re looking at a low-quality or fake product:

• No FSSAI/approval number on label
• Spelling mistakes or vague claims (like ‘Boosts All Health’)
• No contact details or refund policy
• Too good to be true marketing (e.g. 'lose 10kg in 5 days')

OnlyLife’s Approach to Supplement Integrity

At OnlyLife, we formulate based on clinical evidence and Indian physiology. Our quality promise includes:

• FSSAI-compliant, lab-tested, vegetarian supplements
• Formulated by certified nutritionists and healthcare experts
• Full label disclosure, no shortcuts, no misleading claims

Final Thoughts: Trust Built on Science

Choosing supplements is like choosing food — the cleaner, more transparent, and traceable it is, the safer and more effective it becomes.