Single Minerals

EU labels state each mineral in the unit used for its nutrient reference value: 375 mg for magnesium, 800 mg for calcium, 14 mg for iron and 10 mg for zinc, but micrograms for trace minerals such as selenium, chromium and iodine. A milligram is a thousand micrograms, so check the unit before comparing two labels.

Not always. Some products combine two minerals, such as calcium with magnesium, and some add a vitamin, such as vitamin D3 or vitamin B6 alongside magnesium. The title and the ingredient list show what is inside, and the nutrition table gives each vitamin and mineral its own amount and % NRV.

Use the serving on each label. Capsules and tablets are counted in units, powders are measured in grams and liquids in millilitres, and each label states the mineral per serving. Divide the units, grams or millilitres in the pack by the serving to get the number of servings, then compare the price per serving rather than per pack.