Read the serving size first
The Supplement Facts panel identifies the serving size and the declared dietary ingredients. Record the number of capsules, tablets, scoops, or other units before comparing amounts between products.
Keep the amount and its unit together
Compare the same unit and the same serving. In a fictional example, a two-capsule serving lists 200 mg of an ingredient. That works out to 100 mg per capsule; it does not mean every capsule contains 200 mg. This is arithmetic for comparison, not dosing advice.
Distinguish individual amounts from a blend
A blend total is not a breakdown of every component. If individual amounts are absent, record them as undisclosed rather than dividing the total equally between ingredients.
Check the rest of the package
- Exact ingredient form, botanical plant part, or microorganism strain when supplied.
- Other ingredients, allergens, warnings, storage instructions, and expiration information.
- Manufacturer or distributor details and a readable current label image.
Separate evidence from promotion
Ask whether the cited research concerns the finished formula or only one ingredient. Check the preparation, participants, duration, and outcome. A front-label word such as natural or advanced is not a substitute for those details.
Work out the buying comparison
Use the labeled servings per container to calculate price per serving. For a fictional bottle priced at $30 with 30 labeled servings, the listed cost is $1 per serving before shipping, tax, discounts, or subscriptions. Keep those extra terms on the same comparison sheet.
Use the checklist
- Write down the product name and the date of the label you checked.
- Record serving size, individual amounts, units, and missing information.
- Review warnings and ingredient overlap with your existing products.
- Confirm retailer charges, return terms, and any recurring order before payment.
Sources and evidence
FDA dietary supplement nutrition labeling guide. Ingredient references explain general information; they do not endorse products listed here.
Updated · Editorial approach