Reading Supplement Labels

Decoding the supplement facts panel

A supplement label is a legal document — it must accurately declare what's in the product. Learning to read it gives you the power to compare products objectively and spot quality differences. Here's what each section tells you.

1. Active ingredient and amount per dose

This is the most important line. It tells you exactly what nutrient you're getting and how much. Look for the specific chemical form: 'Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)' is clearer than just 'Vitamin C'. Nutri-Leaf labels declare both the nutrient name and the exact compound used.

2. %NRV — Nutrient Reference Value

The %NRV tells you what proportion of the daily reference intake one dose provides. 100% NRV means one capsule delivers the full daily reference amount. Values over 100% are common for water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B vitamins, where the body excretes excess. Values near 100% are typical for minerals like zinc and selenium where long-term excess intake requires more care.

3. Ingredients list

Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. A short ingredient list is often a sign of a clean formula. Nutri-Leaf Vitamin C 1000mg contains just two ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (the vitamin) and HPMC (the plant-based capsule shell). The formula lists just two ingredients.

4. Capsule shell composition

The capsule material matters for absorption, dietary preferences, and stability. HPMC (hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose) is a plant-derived material suitable for vegetarians and vegans. All Nutri-Leaf products use HPMC capsules. Gelatin capsules, by contrast, are animal-derived.

5. Additives and excipients

Many supplements include magnesium stearate (a flow agent for manufacturing), silicon dioxide (anti-caking), or titanium dioxide (colouring). Nutri-Leaf products are formulated without added colourings, and without added magnesium stearate or titanium dioxide. Where silicon dioxide occurs naturally in a formula (e.g. the bamboo extract in Skin Hair & Nails), it is clearly declared in the ingredients.

6. Batch number and expiry

Every Nutri-Leaf product carries a batch number that ties back to manufacturing records at our FSSC 22000 certified manufacturing partner in Germany. This ensures full traceability from raw ingredient to finished capsule.