Proprietary Blends vs. Full Disclosure: Why Nutrient Transparency?

When you look at most nootropics labels today, you've likely come across labels praising some sort of 'proprietary blend,' 'cognitive matrix,' or 'energy complex.'

It's a commonly used term, right? But have you ever paused to consider the true implications of these marketing statements? Or questioned the actual ingredients of your chosen nootropic?

Tip: That 'proprietary blend' label isn't just a fancy term. The term 'proprietary blend' can vary in meaning across brands. 

First things first. What is a proprietary blend?

Have you ever heard the term 'proprietary blend' tossed around when talking about nootropics? Well, let us break it down for you.

It's a fancy word for a unique cocktail of nutrients whipped up for a specific product. Think of it as a secret recipe that the brand holds close to its chest, and no one else can get their hands on.

Why you may want to think twice before taking anything with a proprietary blend.

But here's the kicker. When it comes to what's actually in that blend, they only show the total amount, leaving you in the dark about how much of each nutrient is in there.

So, if your body reacts to a specific nutrient, 'proprietary blends' can make it challenging to identify the specific cause.*

And here's another curveball: some manufacturers may use these proprietary blends to water down the more potent (but more expensive) nutrients with cheap fillers.*

The fillers aren't always harmful. But they sure don't add much nutritional value either. That's why you should always do your research and make sure you're getting the benefits you're looking for from a product.* 

Here are a few important things to consider to make a savvy choice for your well-being:

Nutrients: trust, but verify.

So, do your due diligence. Research the nootropic's actual benefits. And remember: just because a celebrity or influencer endorses a product, doesn't always mean they achieved their results because of the nootropic they are taking.

True nutrient dosages? Unknown.

HCF® is steadfast in its conviction that transparency regarding nutrient potency is very important for consumers. This level of transparency helps consumers make informed decisions, especially when they require a specific dosage of a particular nutrient to tackle a health concern.*

The hitch with 'proprietary blends' is the ambiguity they introduce. Consumers are left guessing if they're getting a product with the right therapeutic levels of essential ingredients. This uncertainty means there's always a gamble involved when opting for products with 'proprietary blends.'*

Most such blends might only have tiny amounts of the active nutrients, leaving consumers in the dark. Here's an example. Turmeric Curcumin—is a hot seller in the health supplement market, often sold as a proprietary blend.*

Making turmeric absorbable by the human body requires adding black pepper, also known as Bioperine. So, to produce a high-quality Turmeric supplement, a manufacturer would need the following:*

• Turmeric: ~$2/pound
• Ginger: ~$1.25/pound
• Curcumin: ~$50/pound
• Bioperine: ~$250/pound

Given the costs, producing high-quality turmeric supplements can be expensive.

That's why some brands may opt for a blend with 99% Turmeric and Ginger, a mere 0.005% Curcumin, and an equivalent amount of Bioperine. This tactic trims their expenses but at the cost of the supplement's efficacy.*

The worst part? This sleight of hand often flies under the radar, and it's nearly impossible for customers to spot.

When some nootropics try too hard to impress.

At its core, proprietary blends are a result of existing regulations, allowing nootropic makers to group nutrients under the banner of a 'blend.'

This loophole has prompted some brands to wield the term 'proprietary blend' as a marketing sword to hype up blends that might barely scratch the surface with active nutrients.* 

Some brands often dress up their blends with a scientific veneer, asserting that the nutrients harmoniously interact because their in-house experts have nailed the ideal balance.*

Yet, this often boils down to marketing fluff, sprinkling in terms like 'synergize' to give an aura of scientific authenticity.

Protects the 'secret recipe.'

One common reason some brands give for using 'proprietary blend' labels is to protect their one-of-a-kind formulas from the prying eyes of competitors.

But more often than not, the choice to withhold detailed nutrient information isn't about safeguarding secrets. It's more about boosting the bottom line by cutting corners on ingredients and then pitching the product as a unique and premium offering.

Why HCF® advocates for nutrient disclosure.

At HCF®, we prioritize transparency in our nutrient labeling—it's a movement toward empowering consumers. Nothing hidden. No mysterious 'proprietary blends.' Every nutrient is out in the open. So you know what’s inside.

By understanding the exact composition of a nootropic, individuals can make informed choices that align with their health objectives. This level of transparency not only builds trust but also assures users of the product's quality.