The global supplement industry is booming, but it can also have environmental impacts. As an eco-conscious consumer, you can make sustainable choices when purchasing vitamins, minerals, herbs, and nutritional supplements. If you’re concerned about making a difference, you’re in luck. This environmental guide will help you select supplements that are eco-friendly.
Opt for Plant-Based
When possible, choose plant-based supplements over animal sources. For example, select vegan vitamin D made from lichen rather than lanolin (sheep’s wool). Look for vegan omega-3 DHA sourced from algae instead of fish oil. Plant proteins like pea, rice, and hemp are more earth-friendly than whey or collagen. Prioritising plant-based supplements reduces your carbon footprint.
Seek Organic Ingredients
Organic farming practices are better for the planet by eliminating synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. Seek out supplements made with organic ingredients that are sustainably grown without chemicals. USDA Organic and projects like the Non-GMO Project verified label indicate sustainable practices. When organic options aren’t available, look for responsibly farmed ingredients.
Research Sustainable Sourcing
Research supplement brands to learn where and how they ethically source ingredients. Some display icons for sustainable sourcing of specific ingredients like mushrooms or maca root. Trustworthy companies reveal sourcing locations and partners on their website or through certifications like B Corporation. This transparency allows you to make informed choices.
Minimise Packaging
Excess packaging contributes to pollution and waste. Select supplement brands using recyclable glass, aluminium, and paper over single-use plastics. Also, look for plastic-free, compostable packaging made from bamboo, fungi, algae, or other renewable materials. Purchase tablets in glass jars rather than individual blister packs when possible. Seek out loose powders instead of capsules to avoid excess pill containers.
Understand Supply Chains
Learn about the supply chain for any supplements imported from other countries. Some exploit local ecosystems and people through unsustainable harvesting practices. Brands with direct partnerships, sustainable harvesting, and fair treatment of workers have more responsible supply chains. Seek companies paving the way for regenerative practices.
Look at the Manufacturing Process
When evaluating supplements, look for brands following quality manufacturing processes. All facilities should be certified by cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) to ensure purity and potency. Also, look for supplements free from unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, and harsh chemicals. For example, the thermogenic fat burners by Jacked Factory are manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility under strict quality control. They contain no harsh chemicals, fillers, or artificial food dyes.
Go for Quality Over Quantity
Companies promoting bigger doses aren’t always better. Using smaller effective doses reduces resource demands, energy expenditure, and ingredient waste—ultimately lowering environmental impact. Potent, premium-quality supplements mean you can take less for results. Invest in effectiveness over mega-doses to minimise your ecological footprint.
Buy Local When Possible
Purchasing locally-made supplements supports businesses in your community and reduces miles travelled during shipping. This lowers emissions from transport. Farmer’s markets and co-ops can have local options. You can even grow some supplements like ginger and turmeric yourself!
Consider Plastic-Neutral Companies
Some supplement brands offset their plastic usage through partnerships that collect waste from oceans and vulnerable ecosystems. This makes them plastic-neutral. For example, Renew Life and Mary Ruth Organics partner with rePurpose Global on plastic recovery projects. Adding eco-friendly supplements from plastic-neutral companies diversifies your choices.
Don’t Fall for Greenwashing
Be aware of greenwashing, where brands appear eco-friendly through savvy marketing and minimal action. Scrutinise claims from new “green” companies and selection of sustainable ingredients/packaging. Legitimate sustainability initiatives back up marketing claims with details on stewardship projects, regenerative sourcing, and third-party certifications. Evaluate critically before purchasing.
With rising eco-awareness, nutrition brands are taking steps to develop more sustainable supplements. Follow these tips to make earth-friendly choices that align with your values. Small actions make positive impacts.
