The Supplement Boom: From Fringe to Mainstream
The scent of mixed berries hung in the air inside Thorne’s manufacturing facility, a nostalgic aroma reminiscent of childhood multivitamins. But this wasn’t a simple candy-making operation. Pallets of raw materials arrived daily, stacked high under the watchful eye of forklifts in a temperature-controlled warehouse outside Charleston, South Carolina. This facility, opened in 2023, doubled Thorne’s manufacturing capacity to 549,000 square feet – a monument to the surging demand for supplements.
A Growing Market Driven by Self-Care
The global supplement market is now estimated between $100 and $200 billion, with the US accounting for roughly one-fifth of worldwide demand. Around 58% of US adults took supplements before the pandemic; today, that number is closer to 75%. Online sales are driving much of this growth, with the Nutrition Business Journal reporting over 10% annual growth in that sector.
This shift is fueled by a number of factors: a distrust of the American healthcare system, the rise of direct-to-consumer lab tests, and a growing desire for proactive health management. Wellness culture, encompassing nutrition, fitness, and longevity, has moved from the fringes to the mainstream.
Many consumers are now tracking sleep, heart rate, and workouts on smart devices, feeding that data into apps and AI tools to create personalized supplement “stacks.”
Quality Control: A Key Differentiator
Thorne built its reputation on quality manufacturing, initially selling directly to doctors. The company now sells directly to consumers, but maintains a focus on rigorous testing. Every product undergoes four rounds of testing, including checks for heavy metals and microbial contamination. Workers in full-body suits operate in sealed mixing rooms to maintain a sterile environment.
However, the supplement industry as a whole faces challenges with regulation. Unlike pharmaceuticals, supplements aren’t approved by the FDA before hitting shelves. Manufacturers are largely responsible for ensuring safety and accurate labeling, and FDA inspections aren’t mandatory or regularly scheduled.
“We position as a premium brand, but to maintain that reputation, we’re very strict,” said Ken Rowe, Thorne’s chief R&D officer. “The fact that we do [test] repeatedly just draws the probability of us having a negative to be very, very small. It’s a trade-off.”
The Rise of “Stacks” and Popular Ingredients
Once considered a niche practice, combining multiple supplements – creating “stacks” – has turn into a daily ritual for millions. Creatine, long popular with bodybuilders, is experiencing a surge in demand as a potential longevity aid and cognitive enhancer. Other popular ingredients include magnesium, fish oil, curcumin, and berberine, sometimes referred to as “nature’s Ozempic” by influencers, though this comparison isn’t scientifically accurate.
Influencers and celebrity endorsements play a significant role in driving sales. Model Karlie Kloss, tennis player Ben Shelton, and Chris Hemsworth’s trainer are among those who have promoted Thorne products.
Navigating the Minefield: Risks and Recommendations
Despite the growing popularity, experts caution against self-directed supplementation. Studies show that many supplements don’t contain what’s advertised on the label, and some have even been found to contain prescription drugs. The lack of regulation creates a potential minefield for consumers.
Doctors recommend a targeted approach, based on testing to identify deficiencies. They emphasize the importance of discussing supplement use with a healthcare professional and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and a nutrient-dense diet.
“If you’re not testing before you’re taking these supplements, you may just be taking expensive pee,” said Dr. Haleem Mohammed, Chief Medical Officer at Gameday Men’s Health.
“I struggle with the supplement industry, not because I don’t believe that some supplements have value, some certainly do, but I just feel like the incentive structures are all geared toward forcing companies…to be dishonest,” said Matt Kaeberlein, a scientist studying the biological mechanisms of aging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are supplements regulated?
A: Supplements are not approved by the FDA before they hit shelves. Manufacturers are largely responsible for ensuring safety and accurate labeling.
Q: What is a supplement “stack”?
A: A supplement “stack” is a combination of multiple supplements taken together, often with the goal of achieving a specific health outcome.
Q: Is creatine safe?
A: Creatine is one of the most well-studied supplements and is generally considered safe for healthy individuals when taken as directed.
Q: Should I talk to my doctor before taking supplements?
A: Yes, it’s crucial to discuss supplement use with your doctor to ensure they won’t interact with any medications you’re taking or exacerbate existing health conditions.
Did you know? Thorne employees receive a monthly allotment of the supplements they manufacture, reinforcing the company’s commitment to quality.
Pro Tip: Before starting any recent supplement regimen, get tested to identify any specific deficiencies. This will assist you target your supplementation and avoid wasting money on unnecessary products.
Explore more articles on Business Insider’s Health section to stay informed about the latest wellness trends and research.
