Compare multivitamin supplements by declared nutrient reference values (% NRV), exact chemical forms of vitamins and minerals, serving size, warnings, net quantity and like-for-like daily cost.
How to read % NRV on multivitamin labels?
Nutrient Reference Value (% NRV) shows the percentage of standard daily reference intake provided per recommended daily portion. A 100% NRV supplies the benchmark amount, but higher percentages do not automatically mean a superior product. Always check the absolute nutrient amount (e.g. mg or mcg) alongside % NRV.
Why do chemical forms of vitamins and minerals matter?
Vitamins and minerals exist in different compound forms (e.g., magnesium citrate vs magnesium oxide, cyanocobalamin vs methylcobalamin B12). EU food supplement legislation sets permitted vitamin and mineral substances. Read the ingredient list to confirm the exact compound used.
Check how we audit product labels in our Editorial Standards.
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Sources used for this guide
- Directive 2002/46/EC on food supplements — permitted vitamin and mineral forms and labelling rules.
- Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on food information to consumers — mandatory nutrition declarations and NRVs.
- Food Safety Authority of Ireland: distance selling guidance — Irish supplement labelling requirements.
