Natural and Synthetic Vitamins: What You Need to Know

The History and Importance of Vitamins

Food serves as both a source of energy and the building blocks for the human body. Within it, there exist vital substances that are necessary for the sustenance of any living organism – known as vitamins. These essential nutrients are predominantly obtained through a well-balanced and judicious diet.

The terminology “vitamins” was originally coined by the Polish scientist Casimir Funk during the years 1911-1912. Notably, individuals consuming brown rice rarely suffered from beriberi, prompting Funk to isolate the substance thiamine, now recognized as vitamin B1, from rice husks. Vitamin B1 is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular, and muscular systems. As of now, a total of 21 vitamins have been identified, all of which are utilized for therapeutic and preventative purposes.

The Spectrum of Multivitamins in Modern Times

The composition of vitamins has evolved over the years, resulting in the development of new forms and the establishment of regulations governing their quality and safety. Consequently, contemporary society has access to an extensive array of vitamins derived from both natural and synthetic sources. This range includes not only multivitamins tailored for specific age groups but also supplements designed for unique life stages such as pregnancy, menopause, and recovery from illnesses, acknowledging the varying nutritional requirements during these phases.

Vitamins can be presented in diverse forms, ranging from capsules, pills, powders, to liquids. It is challenging to categorically assert the superiority of one form over another. The selection of a particular form depends on factors such as the dosage of the active substance, its specificity, the release rate, and ease of consumption. For instance, a pill might contain a higher dosage of the active ingredient compared to a capsule, while capsules may dissolve more rapidly, which is particularly beneficial when taking specific supplements.

Natural versus Synthetic Vitamins: Understanding the Distinction

Vitamins are broadly categorized into two groups based on their origin: synthetic and natural. Synthetic vitamins are manufactured within laboratories, whereas natural vitamins are derived from natural sources, often obtained through dietary intake. Moreover, it is mandatory for vitamin manufacturers to indicate information regarding the natural origin on the packaging if the product contains at least 10% of the natural form of the vitamin.

Modern pharmaceutical advancements have led to the production of a diverse range of synthetic vitamins in controlled laboratory environments. Unlike their natural counterparts, synthetic vitamins contain precisely measured doses of nutrients, ensuring prolonged shelf life and consistent potency.

The Complex Production Process

The production of vitamins entails a multifaceted process, involving operations such as mixing, pressing, grinding, granulation, and tableting. Considering the expenses associated with these processes, numerous enterprises offer comprehensive services encompassing the entire production cycle for supplement manufacturing. For new entrants to the market, contract manufacturing proves to be the most cost-effective option, allowing them to commission the development of a formula, procurement of raw materials, quality control, manufacturing, and product design from an external company.

With the discovery of vitamins, humanity has gained the ability to regulate crucial bodily processes. Some individuals obtain their necessary vitamins from dietary sources, while others opt for synthetic supplements. The rising popularity of these supplements indicates a growing demand. For aspiring vitamin manufacturers seeking to venture into the market, collaborating with companies that provide relevant services proves to be a prudent approach. This strategy enables startup manufacturers and those looking to introduce a new line of supplements to enter the vitamin market without substantial risks or exorbitant costs.

Author