We sent 7 popular multivitamin brands to independent labs for testing. The results revealed significant differences in potency, absorption, and value. Here's what we discovered.

Our Testing Methodology

Each multivitamin was tested for:

Test Results: Ranked by Overall Score

🥇 #1 Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day

94/100

Price: $37/month | Servings: 60 capsules

Exceeded label claims for most nutrients. Superior absorption with methylated B vitamins and chelated minerals. NSF certified for purity.

Standout features: Bioactive forms, no artificial additives, third-party tested

Best for: Those seeking premium quality and maximum absorption

🥈 #2 Garden of Life Vitamin Code Men/Women

89/100

Price: $25/month | Servings: 120 capsules

Raw, whole-food based vitamins with probiotics and enzymes. Excellent label accuracy and unique delivery system.

Standout features: Whole food sources, probiotics included, easy on stomach

Best for: Natural health enthusiasts, sensitive stomachs

🥉 #3 Life Extension Two-Per-Day

86/100

Price: $22/month | Servings: 120 capsules

Science-based formulation with higher potencies than typical multivitamins. Excellent value for the nutrient density.

Standout features: High potency formula, research-backed ingredients

Best for: Value-conscious buyers wanting clinical-grade nutrition

#4 Rainbow Light Men's/Women's One

82/100

Price: $28/month | Servings: 90 tablets

Food-based multivitamin with digestive support blend. Good absorption scores but some nutrients below label claims.

Best for: Those preferring food-based supplements

#5 Nature Made Multi Complete

78/100

Price: $15/month | Servings: 130 tablets

USP verified and widely available. Basic but reliable formulation with acceptable absorption rates.

Best for: Budget-conscious consumers, widely available

#6 Centrum Silver Adults 50+

74/100

Price: $12/month | Servings: 100 tablets

Most affordable option with adequate nutrient levels. Some absorption issues with mineral forms used.

Best for: Budget buyers, seniors needing basic coverage

#7 Vitafusion Adult Gummy Vitamins

68/100

Price: $18/month | Servings: 75 gummies

Tasty gummy format but limited nutrient profile. Contains added sugars and artificial flavors.

Best for: Those who can't swallow pills, kids transitioning to adult vitamins

Key Findings

Brand Label Accuracy Absorption Rate Value Score Overall Grade
Thorne Basic Nutrients 98% Excellent Good A
Garden of Life 95% Excellent Very Good A-
Life Extension 94% Very Good Excellent B+
Rainbow Light 89% Good Good B
Nature Made 92% Fair Excellent B-

What We Learned

Price Doesn't Always Equal Quality

Life Extension Two-Per-Day offers clinical-grade nutrition at a fraction of premium brand prices. Meanwhile, some expensive options underperformed in our tests.

Absorption Matters More Than Potency

Brands using cheaper mineral forms (like magnesium oxide) showed poor dissolution rates, meaning less nutrition reaches your bloodstream.

Third-Party Testing Is Crucial

Brands with independent verification (USP, NSF, or similar) consistently performed better in purity and label accuracy tests.

Our Recommendations

Best Overall: Thorne Basic Nutrients for superior quality and absorption

Best Value: Life Extension Two-Per-Day for clinical nutrition at fair prices

Best Natural: Garden of Life for whole-food based nutrition

Budget Choice: Nature Made for basic coverage at low cost

Important Notes

Testing was conducted by independent laboratories following USP standards. Results reflect products tested in August 2024.