Supplement labels can feel like a wall of fine print. Once you know what to scan for, you can compare products more confidently and avoid paying for marketing instead of meaningful ingredients.
Start with the serving size
Everything on the Supplement Facts panel is listed per serving, not necessarily per capsule. A product might advertise “500 mg magnesium” on the front, but the label may require two capsules to reach that dose. Check both the serving size and the number of servings per container before you compare prices.
Look at the form, not just the name
The same nutrient can come in several chemical forms, and they are not interchangeable. Magnesium glycinate, citrate, and oxide behave differently in the body. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and D2 (ergocalciferol) are not identical either. When a label lists only “magnesium” or “vitamin D” without specifying the form, dig deeper in the ingredient list or product description.
Separate active ingredients from fillers
The Supplement Facts table shows active compounds and their amounts. The “Other ingredients” section lists binders, fillers, and capsule materials. If you have sensitivities — to soy, gluten, or artificial colors — this is where they appear. “Proprietary blends” can hide individual doses; you see the total blend weight but not how much of each ingredient is inside.
Understand % Daily Value
Percent Daily Value (%DV) helps you see how a serving relates to general reference intakes. It is a rough guide, not a personalised target. Your needs depend on diet, age, activity, and health status. High %DV is not automatically better — fat-soluble vitamins, for example, can accumulate if taken in excess.
Check for third-party testing
Quality marks from independent organisations (such as NSF, USP, or Informed Sport) suggest the product was tested for identity, potency, or contaminants. These seals do not replace medical advice, but they add a layer of accountability beyond the brand’s own claims.
Put it together
A useful label check takes about a minute: serving size, active form, dose per serving, fillers, and any quality certification. Pair that with your diet and goals — or use the Suppliq questionnaire for a personalised starting point — and you will shop with clearer expectations.