Vitamin Retailer (VR) magazine once again polled its retailer readers on their top-selling products and best sales and merchandising support to compile its 2019 Vity Awards. After all, who is better qualified to determine the industry’s bestselling products than the people who sell them?

What started in the 1990s has evolved into one of the most sought-after awards in the natural products industry. The 2019 Vity Awards represent a random sampling of retailers across the country polled earlier this year. The winners are, as always, based on the number of votes in each category.

The 2019 winners showcased here represent products and services for which health food retailers have voted because their customers cast the ultimate vote: with their pocketbooks.

VR would like to thank the retailers who supported this year’s Vity Awards with their time and input, and congratulate all the winning manufacturers.

Product descriptions are provided by the manufacturers and do not reflect the viewpoint of VR.

2019 Vity Awards

Vitamin & Mineral Supplement Category

Single Mineral

Chelated Magnesium Vegetable Capsules by Bluebonnet Nutrition Corporation

Bluebonnet’s Chelated Magnesium Vegetable Capsules contain 200 mg per serving of elemental magnesium from fully reacted magnesium bisglycinate, an amino acid chelate mineral from Albion.* Magnesium, a macromineral, not only helps maintain muscles, nerves, bones and teeth; it is essential for carbohydrate and protein metabolism, cell reproduction, and smooth muscle action, specifically the heart. Available in easy-to-swallow vegetable capsules for maximum assimilation and absorption.

*Albion is a registered trademark of Albion Laboratories Inc.

Antioxidant Supplement

Clinical OPC by EuroPharma/Terry Naturally

Clinical OPC features French Grape Seed Extract VX1, a tannin-free source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins that have a low-molecular weight for superior absorption and utilization by the body. The VX1 extract provides the clinically recognized level of OPCs for consistent, life-enhancing benefits, and is combined with phospholipids for even greater absorbability. Clinical OPC provides high-absorption, high-antioxidant strength for the ultimate in cellular, cardiovascular and immune system support.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Single Vitamin

C-1000 by NOW

Vitamin C is a water soluble nutrient well known for its vital role in the immune system.* Vitamin C is also necessary for the production of collagen (a structural protein in connective tissue) and is therefore important for skin, bone and joint health.* Vitamin C is needed for amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and the utilization of many nutrients, such as folic acid and iron.* It is also a highly effective antioxidant that can protect the body’s cells and molecules from damage by free radicals and reactive oxygen molecules generated during normal metabolism and exposure to environmental stressors.* This unique blend includes rose hips and bioflavonoids which work synergistically with vitamin C.* NOW’s C-1000 is non-GMO (genetically modified organism).

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Multiple Vitamin/Mineral

mykind Organics Women’s Once Daily Multivitamin by Garden of Life

It’s here—a whole food multi from real, nutritious foods that’s Certified USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified and is specifically formulated in a once-daily dose for the needs of women: mykind Organics Women’s Once Daily. Made from more than 30 powdered organic fruits, vegetables and herbs, mykind Organics Women’s Once Daily offers 19 vitamins and minerals with 15 greater than 100 percent daily value (DV), including great levels of B vitamins for radiant skin and nails.* It also provides vitamin B-12 in methylcobalamin form—a highly absorbable, active, natural form of B-12, like the B-12 in the body.* Women’s Once Daily also delivers vegan D3 from lichen for immune support and 2 mg of iron for blood support.* Women’s Once Daily is made from real organic whole food, including lemons, annatto, amla berry, holy basil and many more—providing perfect support for your demanding lifestyle—all in just one organic tablet daily.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Specialty & Herbal Supplement Category

Acidophilus, Probiotic or Enzyme

Raw Probiotics Ultimate Care by Garden of Life

Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Ultimate Care—the ultimate complementary probiotic. RAW Probiotics Ultimate Care’s high Bifido formula includes the clinically studied Replenish Blend, making it your ultimate complementary probiotic to achieve balance—helping you repopulate your gastrointestinal tract with good bacteria.* RAW means Garden of Life’s probiotics are uncooked, untreated, unadulterated, with no binders or fillers and no carriers. What the company promises on the label is what you get—100 billion live probiotic cultures in a convenient once-daily capsule. Garden of Life’s shelf stable, patent-pending desiccant-lined bottle technology ensures your probiotics arrive alive.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

EFA Supplement

Ultimate Omega by Nordic Naturals

The No. 1 omega-3 fish oil in the U.S.,† Ultimate Omega offers support for both body and mind.* This award-winning concentrate delivers more omega-3s EPA and DHA than most fish oil products to provide more essential health benefits in a smaller serving. Without solicitation, doctors and researchers worldwide consistently choose and recommend this powerful formula. Made from 100 percent wild-caught sardines and anchovies, Ultimate Omega is a convenient way to support a healthy heart, brain and nervous system in every delicious daily serving.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Children’s Health Supplement

Nordic Berries by Nordic Naturals

Nordic Berries multivitamin is a great way to give growing kids important nutrients they need, in fun gummies they’ll enjoy day after day—and adults love them too.* These yummy gummies are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including zinc and vitamins A, C, D3 and E.* Nordic Berries even contain full-spectrum B vitamins—hard to find in a gummy. With their great taste and nutritional value, these pectin-based, vegetarian gummies are a delicious way to help fill nutritional gaps.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†Based on SPINS scan data

Fiber/Internal Cleanser Supplement

Psyllium Husks Powder/Caps by Yerba Prima

Yerba Prima’s Psyllium Husk is more than just fiber, in fact it is the strongest natural dietary fiber for promoting regularity and supporting heart health. In the digestive system, psyllium forms into a gel-type substance promoting easy, healthy elimination as it sweeps waste and toxins out of the body. Additionally, research has proven that psyllium husks help maintain normal cholesterol levels, including a proper balance of HDL and LDL cholesterol. Convenient and economical, Yerba Prima’s Psyllium Husks are most effective when used every day and can be used as long as desired. It does not contain fillers or added laxatives, and is naturally gluten free. Organic and vegan Psyllium Husk Caps are also available.

Green Food Supplement

Green Vibrance by Vibrant Health

Green Vibrance, Vibrant Health’s flagship product, has lead the way in the green superfoods industry and has won a total of 16 individual awards since its launch in 1992. It is loaded with ingredients that support the four foundations of health (nutrition, circulation, digestion and immunity) including 25 billion probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, oat grass, goji berries, astragalus, holy basil, flaxseed powder, and so much more. With Vibrant Health’s dedication to full disclosure labeling, consumers will never have to wonder what’s inside; they can simply take a look at the label. Green Vibrance has gone through many version upgrades over the years, as Vibrant Health prides itself on providing consumers with the most comprehensive and efficacious formulations possible.

Herbal Supplement

CuraMed by EuroPharma/Terry Naturally

CuraMed features the only patented, clinically studied curcumin enhanced with turmeric essential oil for better absorption and a full spectrum of benefits from turmerones. The curcumin in CuraMed has more than 50 groundbreaking, published studies, and is requested by researchers around the world for one reason: it works. For the best in healthy inflammation response† and liver, brain, heart and cellular health, CuraMed is a powerful choice.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†Occasional inflammation due to exercise or overuse

Homeopathic Remedy

Arnica Montana by Boiron

Arnica montana (or mountain daisy) has been used for centuries as a pain reliever. Today, Boiron’s pharmaceutical-grade homeopathic medicine is a top-seller to relieve muscles pain, stiffness, swelling from injuries and bruises.* The dissolvable pellets are safe to use at the first sign of pain, will not cause drowsiness or interact with other medications. Boiron’s pain relief line includes Arnicare Gel, Cream and Ointment for spot treatment, as well as tablets and an arthritis formula.

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.

Joint/Bone Support

Curamin Extra Strength by EuroPharma/Terry Naturally

Curamin Extra Strength provides a powerhouse of four effective ingredients, creating a product that has been recognized throughout the natural foods industry for pain relief.*†

Powerful ingredients include:

• Clinically studied curcumin is significantly better absorbed than turmeric.
• Boswellia is clinically studied and uniquely standardized to provide up to 10 times more beneficial AKBA than unstandardized boswellia.
• DLPA helps support the effects of endorphins and enkephalins.*
• Nattokinase helps support circulation, an important feature for proper nutrient delivery and effectiveness.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†Occasional inflammation due to exercise or overuse.

Women’s Health Supplement

WomenSense EstroSense by Natural Factors

PMS? Painful period? Menopause support? Natural Factors WomenSense EstroSense is an exclusive formula containing natural ingredients of calcium-D-glucarate, indole-3-carbinol, green tea extract, lycopene, sulforaphane and milk thistle seed extract. WomenSense EstroSense helps maintain healthy hormone balance by promoting liver detoxification and healthy estrogen metabolism. Calcium-D-glucarate, sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol (I-3-C) support normal circulating estrogen levels and help with the elimination of natural body toxins. Along with milk thistle, these ingredients can help prevent the re-absorption of excess estrogen. Rosemary, curcumin (from turmeric), green tea extract and lycopene are important antioxidants, promoting healthy inflammatory responses and supporting cellular health.

Pet Health Supplement

RESCUE REMEDY PET by Nelsons

Thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits—pets get stressed too! It is easy to tell when the world around is becoming too much for your pet. In these times, a few drops of RESCUE REMEDY PET can help reduce their stress without the side effects often found in sedatives. Recommended by veterinarians, RESCUE REMEDY PET helps calm animals during stressful situations. RESCUE REMEDY PET is a blend of five Bach original flower remedies, in a pet-friendly, alcohol-free formula. Each ingredient, chosen for its unique ability to ease mental tension, is sourced directly from the original gardens of Dr. Bach.

Men’s Health Supplement

Supercritical Prostate 5LX by New Chapter

Supercritical Prostate 5LX combines prostate-supportive plant nutrients found in nettle and saw palmetto with a proprietary herbal blend of rosemary, green tea, ginger, pumpkin seed oil and whole-food fermented selenium. These ingredients are expertly blended to provide holistic support for your prostate health, supporting normal urine flow.* Supercritical Prostate 5LX is Non-GMO Project Verified and 100 percent vegetarian.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Brain Support Formula: TIE

CuraMed Brain by EuroPharma/Terry Naturally

Keeping your mind sharp is critical to healthy aging. With an intelligent combination of ingredients, CuraMed Brain helps you preserve your mental agility, focus and clarity. This unique formula enhances your ability to think clearly and effectively, and supports healthy mental function for years to come.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

MycoBotanicals Brain by Host Defense Mushrooms

MycoBotanicals Brain is a unique blend of mushroom mycelium and herbs to provide the best possible functional food formula to support mental clarity, great for any age.* The herbs ginkgo, bacopa and gotu kola support brain health.* Lion’s mane and reishi support neurological and adrenal functioning, while cordyceps supports brain health with aging.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Diet/Weight Loss Formula

Healthy Weight Loss Gold by NutriGold

Healthy Weight-Loss Gold is a safe, smart, sensible and non-stimulant approach to healthy weight loss. It provides a synergistic blend of four clinically proven branded ingredients that support key goals related to healthy weight loss: 1) metabolic support, 2) fat reduction, 3) feeling “full, and 4) stress management. Healthy Weight-Loss Gold is manufactured in the USA to industry-defining quality standards and is verified by independent third-party labs to meet identity, purity, and potency label claims so you can be sure that what’s on the label is in the bottle—and nothing more.

Digestive Support Formula

Digest Gold by Enzymedica

Digest Gold is the No. 1 selling enzyme product in the United States. With a comprehensive blend of enzymes optimized for the entire body, it helps to break down the building blocks of food, like fat, fiber, proteins and carbohydrates.

Energy Formula

ENERGY by NOW

NOW ENERGY combines a comprehensive array of nutrients and dietary ingredients to fill up your body with energy.* This product has been formulated with ingredients such as B vitamins, green tea, panax ginseng and rhodiola to support thermogenesis, energy production and adrenal function.* Caffeine is present in this product as a naturally occurring constituent of herbal ingredients such as guarana, yerba mate and green tea. NOW ENERGY is non-GMO. This product has approximately 64 mg of natural caffeine per serving (equivalent to about a half cup of coffee).

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Heart/Cardio Support Formula

Kyolic AGE Blood Pressure Health Formula 109 by Wakunaga of America

Kyolic AGE Blood Pressure Health Formula 109 is a unique combination of aged garlic extract, nattokinase and Suntheanine. Kyolic AGE has been the subject of more than 800 peer-reviewed articles. The ingredients in Formula 109 have been clinically shown to support healthy blood pressure through various pathways and help aid mental relaxation. Formula 109 is free of GMOs, gluten, dairy, sodium, yeast, preservatives, sugar and artificial colors or flavors. This top-selling formula is available in 80-, 160- and 240 capsule sizes.

Immune Support Formula

Wellness Formula by Source Naturals

A signature Source Naturals product, Wellness Formula goes beyond other immune support products to bring balance to interrelated body systems critical to seasonal wellness. Its advanced Bio-Aligned Formula combines important vitamins, herbs and nutraceuticals to deliver comprehensive immune, respiratory and antioxidant defense support.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Sexual Function Formula

Steel-Libido RED by Irwin Naturals

When it comes to sexual performance, nitric oxide is the key!* Nitric oxide (NO) is a naturally occurring compound in the body that plays a critical role in the male sexual response.* NO is produced in the inner lining of the vascular system and helps to dilate blood vessels, allowing blood flow to vital organs. When sufficient nitric oxide is present, erections occur during the normal course of intimacy.*

Specially designed to support NO in the body,* Steel-Libido RED features a number of NO “boosters” including ginkgo and L-citrulline—an amino acid that supports blood circulation and enhances physical response during sexual activity.* Steel-Libido RED is also packed with energizing nutrients,* including CoQ10 and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) that fuel energy production and L-theanine, which promotes a relaxed yet alert state of mind.* Steel-Libido RED works tonight!* Take it daily for ongoing maintenance of sexual health or as needed for fast-acting sexual enhancement.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sports Nutrition Category

Functional Beverage

Bulletproof Cold Brew Coffee by Bulletproof

Bulletproof Coffee Cold Brew RTD (ready-to-drink) is a deliciously satisfying coffee beverage that keeps you fueled and energized throughout your day. Infused with Brain Octane Oil and grass-fed butter, the coffee will power your brain and curb snack attacks while providing your body with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It’s made with zero sugar, so there’s no chance of a sugar crash as well. Bulletproof is clean coffee—farmed, screened and tested for toxins. To ensure a great taste, Bulletproof Coffee Cold Brew goes one step further by brewing through a small-batch process that uses triple-filtered water and low-temperature extraction. This delivers a smooth, bold coffee experience with very low acidity and virtually no bitterness. These RTD Cold Brews come in seven flavors: Original, Vanilla, Mocha, Caramel (new), Original + Collagen, Dark Chocolate + Collagen, and Vanilla Latte + Collagen.

Liquid Aminos

L-Carnitine Liquid 1,000 mg Tropical Punch by NOW

NOW L-Carnitine Liquid has all of the properties of carnitine in a highly absorbable liquid form. L-Carnitine is a non-essential amino acid that helps to maintain overall good health by facilitating the transfer of fatty acid groups into the mitochondrial membrane for cellular energy production.* It naturally occurs in red meat and other animal-source foods, but we recommend supplementation to obtain optimal levels of this excellent amino acid. NOW L-Carnitine is the purest form, clinically tested, and vegetarian (non-animal sourced). NOW L-Carnitine Liquid is keto-friendly, Non-GMO and Informed Choice certified.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Muscle Enhancement

Extreme Edge Carbo Load by Bluebonnet Nutrition Corporation

Extreme Edge Carbo Load is a no-sugar-added formula that contains the precise amounts and ideal balance of performance-enhancing nutrients to push the body through a vigorous workout. This glucose-refueling stack contains 38 grams of complex carbohydrates and long chain glucose polymers—from waxy maize, maltodextrin, steel cut oats, brown rice and D-ribose—which are rapidly broken down into glucose, the body’s primary source of fuel to replenish the muscles during a workout. There are no artificially-derived sweeteners, flavors or colors. Available in orange or grape flavors as a 2.5 lb. container or a 7 single-serve pack.

Protein Powder

Raw Organic Protein by Garden of Life

Unleash the nutritive power of living grains and seeds with Garden of Life RAW Organic Protein—a certified organic, RAW, vegan protein powder with a scrumptious taste. Featuring 22 RAW and organic sprouts, RAW Organic Protein is an excellent source of complete protein—providing 22 grams and 29 percent of the daily value—including all essential amino acids. RAW Organic Protein contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and supports digestive health and function with live probiotics and protein-digesting enzymes.* RAW matters because heat can denature proteins, reducing their availability to your body. But, Garden of Life’s Certified Organic plant proteins are different—always gently produced at low temperatures, without any added fillers or carriers, preserving their complete amino acid integrity and whole-food, certified organic, non-GMO goodness.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Sports Nutrition Bar

GoL Bars by Garden of Life

Garden of Life has always believed in doing the right thing. Offering a clean and simple ingredient bar may seem easy, but making one that’s Certified USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified and certified gluten free is no easy task. But, obtaining these third-party certifications is your assurance that what you see on the label is what you get—clean, simple, whole food ingredients for the entire family. No compromise – No GMOs – No rBGH or rBST – No Junk – No Kidding!

Weight Gainer

Natural Gainer by MRM

MRM’s Natural Gainer provides all the essential amino acids to support lean muscle growth.* Natural Protein Optimizer is a special combination of hormone and BSE free, non-denatured and low temperature processed whey protein concentrate and isolate along with micellar casein to provide both fast and slow digesting proteins. These protein sources contain essential amino acids, especially branched chain amino acid (BCAAs), which are proven to support lean muscle growth.* MRM emphasizes the amount of protein per serving, since it is the most prominent macronutrient proven to increase lean muscle mass and maintain a healthy weight.

Natural Medicine Category

Natural Allergy/Hay Fever Remedy

Allercetin Allergy & Sinus by Source Naturals

Allercetin Allergy & Sinus is a bio-aligned formula that utilizes natural homeopathic remedies for the treatment of allergies. Allercetin supports multiple body systems involved with hay fever: the respiratory system, sinuses, mucous membranes, histamine inhibition, immune desensitization and cellular energy.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Headache Remedy

Curamin Headache Relief by EuroPharma/Terry Naturally

Curamin Headache Relief† combines strong ingredients from EuroPharma’s award-winning and well-loved Curamin formula with ingredients targeted to relieve occasional headaches due to tension or stress. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a safe and effective solution.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†Occasional headaches due to stress or fatigue.

Seasonal Support: TIE

Oscillococcinum by Boiron

Oscillococcinum has been shown in clinical studies to help reduce both the duration and the severity of flu-like symptoms. Dissolve the pellets under the tongue at the first sign of body aches, headaches, fever, chills and fatigue to nip symptoms in the bud.* Recommended for ages 2 years and older, Oscillococcinum works without causing drowsiness, and it has no known interactions with other medications. For more than 70 years, families in 50 countries have relied on Oscillococcinum. Retailers can now offer this top-seller in 6-, 12- or 30-dose units.

*These “Uses” have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

ACF Fast Relief by Buried Treasure

Buried Treasure ACF Fast Relief is a liquid natural herbal supplement with vitamins, minerals and a blend of botanicals for rapid immune support. This comprehensive formula is made with 1,000 mg of vitamin C, citrus bioflavonoids, zinc, rutin, echinacea, osha root, elderberry, golden seal, purified silver and more for complete immune wellness support. ACF is designed to take over a period of four days to rapidly boost your immune system during seasonal challenges. ACF is free from common allergens, is vegan and contains non-GMO ingredients.

Natural Indigestion Remedy

Acid Soothe by Enzymedica

Acid Soothe is Enzymedica’s classic solution for indigestion. Powerful enzymes combine with an herbal blend to soothe discomfort. Pepzin-GI zinc carnosine is also included, and has been shown in published research to support the lining of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract.

Natural Sleep Remedy

Deep Sleep by Herbs, Etc.

Deep Sleep is the solution to various types of sleep difficulties. It does more than simply relax body and mind. It restores a natural sleep rhythm. Deep Sleep is specifically designed for those who long to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed, alert and energized—all without side effects. The secret to Deep Sleep’s effectiveness is the inclusion of fresh (never dried) herbs rich in the constituents essential to achieve sound sleep. These fragile herbal constituents retain their beneficial properties only when they are extracted while fresh and succulent. Deep Sleep contains: fresh California poppy, fresh valerian, fresh passionflower, fresh chamomile, fresh lemon balm, fresh oat seed and orange peel.

Supplier Merchandising Support Category

Best Supplier-Provided Educat-ional Materials

EuroPharma/ Terry Naturally

As a company based on scientific validation, EuroPharma, makers of the Terry Naturally brand, devotes a great deal of resources to providing the information retailers need to match the right product to the right consumer. The company believes that quality information is needed to make informed health decisions. The EuroPharma team communicates this information in a wide variety of ways, including third-party non-branded information on research, educational webinars featuring experts in natural health, branded product literature that highlights unique points of differentiation, and a science and education team available to answer any type of question from retailers.

Best Computer-ized Point-of-Sale System

CATAPULT Retail Point of Sale Software by ECRS

ECRS is a retail solutions provider that is future-proofing today’s retailers and preparing them for tomorrow’s opportunities. ECRS’ CATAPULT system is the market’s only truly unified point of sale platform. With CATAPULT, point of sale, self checkout, web-store, inventory, customer loyalty, back office and enterprise management all share a single transactional business logic. Unified Transaction Logic empowers retailers by providing actionable business intelligence across the enterprise in real time. Unifying hardware, software, and services, ECRS offers a friction-free, cost-saving solution.