Methodology

How We Score Supplements

Overview

Every product in our catalog receives a score from 0 to 100 based on clinical evidence, ingredient quality, dosing accuracy, label transparency, and third-party verification. We do not accept payment from brands to influence scores.

Scoring Components

  • Ingredient Evidence — Are the active ingredients backed by peer-reviewed research for the claimed benefits?
  • Dose Accuracy — Does the product provide clinically effective doses, not under-dosed token amounts?
  • Formulation Quality — Are bioavailable forms used? Are there unnecessary fillers or proprietary blends hiding actual amounts?
  • Label Transparency — Does the label clearly disclose every ingredient and amount?
  • Third-Party Testing — Is the product verified by independent labs (NSF, USP, Informed-Sport, etc.)?
  • Value — How does cost per effective serving compare to alternatives in the same category?

Grade Scale

A (85–100) — Excellent. Clinical doses, strong evidence, verified.
B (70–84) — Good. Mostly well-formulated with minor gaps.
C (50–69) — Average. Some effective ingredients but notable shortcomings.
D (25–49) — Below average. Under-dosed, poor transparency, or weak evidence.
F (0–24) — Poor. Not recommended based on available evidence.

Brand Scoring

Brand grades are derived from the average quality of their scored products plus additional factors: manufacturing transparency, third-party testing coverage, and track record. A brand with consistently high-scoring products earns a higher brand grade.

Independence

Formulate is independently operated. We may earn affiliate commissions when you purchase through links on our site, but this never influences scores. Products are scored before any commercial links are added.