How to Choose Sustainable Fitness Supplements Guide
Want supplements that are better for you and the planet? Here’s what to look for:
- Ingredients: Choose natural, plant-based, or responsibly sourced options. Avoid synthetic additives.
- Certifications: Look for USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Fair Trade, or Climate Neutral labels.
- Packaging: Prioritize glass, metal, or compostable materials. Avoid single-use plastics.
- Brands: Support companies like Orlo Nutrition, Strength Genesis, and Athletic Greens, which focus on ethical sourcing, renewable energy, and waste reduction.
Why It Matters:
- Protects the environment by reducing waste and emissions.
- Ensures higher-quality products with transparent sourcing.
- Supports ethical labor and farming practices.
Quick Tips to Start:
- Check your current supplements for eco-friendly certifications and materials.
- Gradually switch to brands using sustainable practices.
- Choose concentrated formulas to reduce shipping impact.
By making small, thoughtful changes, you can improve your health and help the planet.
How to Tell if a Brand is Greenwashing or Sustainable (Guide)
How to Evaluate Eco-Friendly Supplements
Studies show that 74% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products . When choosing supplements that support both your health and the planet, focus on three main areas: ingredients, certifications, and packaging.
Natural vs. Synthetic Ingredients
The choice between natural and synthetic ingredients impacts both effectiveness and environmental footprint. For example, Strength Genesis's Pur Zealand Grass-Fed Whey Protein is made from grass-fed New Zealand cattle, showcasing the benefits of natural sourcing.
Here’s what to consider when evaluating ingredients:
- Plant-based sources: Opt for ingredients grown using sustainable farming practices.
- Processing methods: Cold-processing retains nutrients while reducing environmental harm.
- Artificial additives: Steer clear of products with synthetic fillers or preservatives.
Quality Certifications
Third-party certifications can help confirm a supplement’s sustainability claims. For instance, USDA Organic certification ensures that at least 95% of a product’s ingredients are organic .
Look for these certifications:
- USDA Organic: Ensures ingredients are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- Non-GMO Project Verified: Guarantees the product is free from genetically modified organisms.
- Fair Trade: Confirms ethical sourcing and fair labor practices.
Packaging Materials
Packaging plays a big role in sustainability, with 67% of consumers expressing concern about its environmental impact .
| Packaging Type | Environmental Impact | Example Products |
|---|---|---|
| Glass | Fully recyclable and reusable | Strength Genesis Hydra Bottle |
| Metal | Recyclable and lighter for shipping | Strength Genesis protein containers |
When analyzing packaging, focus on:
- Material type: Glass and metal are better options than plastic.
- Recyclability: Look for clear recycling instructions on the product.
- Shipping impact: Choose concentrated formulas to minimize transport emissions.
- Reusability: Support brands offering refillable or reusable packaging.
Brands like Strength Genesis lead by example, using only glass and metal containers and avoiding styrofoam or plastic in their shipping materials.
Best Pre-Workout Options
Looking for a natural way to fuel your workouts? Plant-based pre-workouts combine effective performance benefits with eco-conscious choices.
Plant-Based Energy Sources
Some key ingredients to look for include:
- Green tea caffeine for steady, long-lasting energy
- L-Citrulline Malate, which can improve workout performance by up to 53% and help reduce soreness
- Beta-Alanine, known for boosting endurance
- Cordyceps Mushroom, which supports ATP production and improves blood flow
Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, recommends starting with a Beta-Alanine dose of at least 3 grams .
These ingredients highlight the potential of natural pre-workout options to deliver results without compromising on quality.
Top Pre-Workout Products
When choosing a pre-workout, prioritize products with high-quality ingredients and environmentally friendly packaging. Here are some top picks:
| Product | Key Natural Ingredients | Caffeine Content | Eco-Friendly Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pur Pre-Workout (Cherry Pineapple) | L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine | 250 mg | Metal container, no artificial sweeteners |
| Legion Athletics Pulse | L-Theanine, Caffeine | 350 mg | Third-party tested, sustainable packaging |
| Garden of Life Sport | Organic Coffee Berry | 85 mg | USDA Organic, plant-based formula |
Pur Pre-Workout (Cherry Pineapple) by Strength Genesis stands out for its thoughtful design. It uses metal containers instead of plastic and avoids artificial sweeteners or dyes, making it a strong choice for eco-conscious athletes.
"I think it's a great stimulant-free option. For those sensitive to caffeine, you can avoid the jitters during your workout and recovery" .
For added peace of mind, look for third-party certifications to confirm sustainability claims.
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Best Post-Workout Options
Post-workout recovery requires supplements that support muscle repair while being mindful of their environmental footprint. Choosing the right products can help you recover effectively and responsibly.
Protein Sources
Protein is essential for recovery, especially after intense workouts. Endurance athletes should aim for 0.6–1.1 grams of protein per pound of body weight to aid muscle repair and recovery .
One standout option is Pur Zealand Grass-Fed Whey Protein ($37.99). This whey protein is sourced from grass-fed cows in New Zealand and is packaged in aluminum containers with wheat straw scoops, making it both effective and eco-conscious .
For plant-based alternatives, consider these options:
| Protein Source | Protein Content per Serving | Environmental Benefits | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tempeh | 20g | Uses less water, minimally processed | Higher protein density compared to other plant-based sources |
| Hemp Seeds | 10g | Low water needs, improves soil health | Complete protein with all essential amino acids |
| Pea Protein | 24g | Nitrogen-fixing crop, low impact | Affordable and versatile |
"The benefits of including more plant-based proteins is they are low in fat, high in fiber, contain important vitamins and minerals, and provide antioxidants like phenolic acids which may help reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease", - Kayla Slater, MS, RDN
Protein is just the start - recovery supplements can take your post-workout routine to the next level.
Recovery Supplements
Look for recovery supplements that combine effective ingredients with sustainable packaging and sourcing. For example, Form Nutrition uses plastic-free, compostable pouches made from plant-based biofilm . Similarly, Athletic Greens (AG1) holds Climate Neutral Certification and is part of the How2Recycle program .
"Nailing your post-workout nutrition promotes quicker recovery, reduces muscle soreness, builds muscle, improves immune system functioning, and replenishes glycogen - all key building blocks in priming you for future workouts", - Marni Sumbal, M.S., R.D.
When evaluating recovery supplements, consider the following:
- Third-party certifications like USDA Organic or Non-GMO Project Verified
- Transparent sourcing to ensure ethical practices
- Natural anti-inflammatory ingredients to support recovery
- Eco-friendly packaging to reduce waste
A great example is Orlo Nutrition, which offers refillable glass containers and refills in recycled plastic pouches . These thoughtful details show how recovery supplements can be effective and environmentally responsible.
Finding Eco-Friendly Brands
When searching for eco-friendly brands, keep these key factors in mind:
Certifications to Look For
Third-party certifications can help you identify brands that meet strict environmental and ethical standards. Some top certifications include USDA Organic, B Corp, Climate Neutral, and Fair Trade.
Sustainable Packaging Options
Packaging plays a major role in a brand's environmental impact. Here are some examples of eco-conscious packaging choices:
| Packaging Type | Benefits | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Containers | Fully recyclable with minimal chemical risks | Strength Genesis Macadamia Oil bottles |
| Compostable Pouches | Breaks down naturally, reducing waste | Form's plant-based biofilm pouches |
| Aluminum Packaging | Easy to recycle and lightweight for shipping | Pur Zealand Whey containers |
| Refill Programs | Cuts down on single-use materials | Orlo Nutrition's refillable system |
Manufacturing Transparency
Brands that openly share their sustainability efforts are easier to trust. Look for those that publish sustainability reports, detail their ingredient sourcing, and disclose their carbon footprint management. Transparency shows a real commitment to making a difference.
Brand Spotlight
Here are a few standout companies that align with these eco-friendly principles:
- Orlo Nutrition: This brand uses 100% renewable resources to produce microalgae, avoiding harmful chemicals entirely. Their refillable container system is a smart way to cut down on waste.
- Athletic Greens (AG1): With a Climate Neutral Certification, AG1 supports forest protection projects and participates in the How2Recycle program to encourage responsible packaging.
- Strength Genesis: Known for sourcing ethically, they use New Zealand grass-fed whey and package their products in glass and metal containers to minimize environmental impact.
To ensure a brand's claims hold up, review their environmental reports, supply chain details, customer feedback, and any industry recognition. The best sustainable brands back up their promises with measurable actions and clear reporting.
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
When choosing fitness supplements, focus on three main factors: ingredient quality, eco-conscious practices, and reliable certifications.
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing:
- Opt for supplements made with natural, responsibly sourced ingredients.
- Consider plant-based options whenever feasible.
- Check for organic labels and ethical farming practices.
Eco-Friendly Practices:
- Look for brands that use sustainable packaging.
- Support companies with transparent and responsible supply chains.
- Pay attention to certifications like USDA Organic, Climate Neutral, and Fair Trade.
These tips can help you evaluate your current supplements and make more thoughtful, sustainable choices.
Steps to Get Started
- Assess Your Current Products: Check the packaging and ingredient sourcing of your existing supplements. Shift toward brands that use eco-friendly materials.
- Explore Certifications: Look for products with verified eco-conscious certifications, such as Climate Neutral or USDA Organic.
- Upgrade Gradually: Replace your supplements one by one, prioritizing those with biodegradable packaging and ethically sourced ingredients.