Vitamin Retailer (VR) magazine once again polled its retailer readers on their top-selling products and best sales and merchandising support to compile its 2021 Vity Awards. After all, who is better qualified to determine the industry’s best-selling 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 2021 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 2021 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.
Vitamin & Mineral Supplement Category
Single Mineral
Buffered Chelated Magnesium Vegetable Capsules by Bluebonnet Nutrition
Bluebonnet’s Buffered Chelated Magnesium Vegetable Capsules are specially formulated with 200 mg magnesium bisglycinate chelate buffered with magnesium oxide from Albion. Chelated magnesium is highly absorbable, helping to maintain muscles, nerves, bones and teeth; it is also essential for carbohydrate and protein metabolism, cell reproduction, and smooth muscle action, including heart muscle tone. Magnesium is required for cellular metabolism and energy production; it facilitates absorption of calcium and potassium and supports the processing of vitamin D. It is no wonder this mineral is known as the “Spark of Life.” Bluebonnet’s Buffered Chelated Magnesium Vegetable Capsules are made from non-GMO (genetically modified organism) ingredients that are kosher, suitable for vegans/vegetarians, and free of common allergens (soy, gluten & milk). Available in a 60- and 120-day supply.*
*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.
Antioxidant Supplement
Clinical OPC, Terry Naturally by EuroPharma
Clinical OPC features French Grape Seed Extract VX1, a tannin-free source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) 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.
Multiple Vitamin/Mineral
mykind Organics Once Daily Tablets (Men’s & Women’s) by Garden of Life
mykind Organics Women’s Once Daily is 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. 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.*
mykind Organics Men’s Once Daily is a whole food multi from real, nutritious foods that’s Certified USDA Organic and is Non-GMO Project Verified and is specifically formulated for the needs of men in a once-daily dose. Made from more than 30 organic fruits, vegetables and herbs, Organics Men’s Once Daily provides powerful amounts of vitamins and minerals in a one-tablet serving. It also provides good levels of B vitamins, including vitamin B-12 in methylcobalamin form—a highly absorbable, active, natural form of B-12—as well as healthy levels of selenium for prostate health.* Men’s Once Daily also contains vitamin B-complex for energy and heart health.* It is made from real whole food, including organic fruits, veggies and herbs such as lemons, apples, basil, red cabbage, celery, tomatoes and many other real foods to give men the nutritional “punch” they need in a natural form—and all of them are Certified Vegan, Certified USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified.
*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
Ester-C 1,000 mg With Citrus Bioflavoniods by American Health
Ester-C is a clinically studied vitamin C formula that contains naturally occurring metabolites. Metabolites help enhance the retention of vitamin C by your white blood cells, an important part of your immune system. Ester-C is the only vitamin C that delivers 24-hour immune support and it lasts up to two times longer than regular vitamin C. Additionally, its water-based manufacturing process neutralizes pH, making it non-acidic and gentler on the stomach when compared to regular vitamin C. Ester-C 1,000 mg with Citrus Bioflavoniods is non-GMO, and gluten-, dairy-, wheat- and soy free.
Specialty & Herbal Supplement Category
Acidophilus, Probiotic or Enzyme
Digest Gold + Probiotics by Enzymedica
Digest Gold + PROBIOTICS is a two-in-one formula. It includes all the benefits of Digest Gold maximum-strength enzymes plus probiotics so gut health gets back on track quickly.* Enzymes boost digestion, while a daily dose of 1.5 billion probiotic cultures support immune health, support regularity and bring balance back to the gut.*
Enzymedica’s proprietary Thera-blend technology means that the enzymes found in Digest Gold +PROBIOITICS will work throughout the entire pH spectrum found along the digestive tract. Other enzyme formulas may fall short in acidic or alkaline environments, but Digest Gold +PROBIOTICS remains effective in these environments to break down carbs, fats, fiber and protein, and speeds digestion, reduces occasional bloating and boosts 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.
EFA Supplement
Ultimate Omega by Nordic Naturals
Ultimate Omega delivers the No. 1 omega-3 in the U.S.—for heart, brain and wellness support—in every delicious daily serving.* Optimal wellness means feeling good day to day. For many people, this means stepping up their daily intake of omega-3 EPA+DHA. Ultimate Omega’s award-winning formula delivers. With all the health benefits of pure, fresh, high-quality concentrated fish oil, it gives you more omega-3s in every serving. Ultimate Omega is available in both liquid and soft gels.
*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
Multi Vitamin & Mineral by ChildLife Essentials
ChildLife Essentials Multi Vitamin & Mineral contains key vitamins and essential minerals, making it the best one for kids. Pediatrician developed and tasty kid-approved orange/mango flavor, this unique liquid formula is gluten free, non-GMO and contains no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.
Fiber/Internal Cleanser Supplement
Psyllium Whole Husks by Yerba Prima Inc.
Psyllium Whole Husks is a high-quality dietary fiber which promotes regularity, colon health, supports heart health, weight management and more. This product is gluten free and non-GMO.
Green Food Supplement
Green Vibrance by Vibrant Health
America’s No.1 superfood, Green Vibrance, is packed with micronutrients and 25 billion probiotics that support all four pillars of health: nutrition, circulation, digestion and immunity—improving biological requirements to run at peak efficiency, increase energy and boost your immune system.
Herbal Supplement
CuraMed, Terry Naturally by EuroPharma
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 70 groundbreaking, published studies, and is requested by researchers around the world. From non-GMO turmeric grown without chemicals. For the best in healthy inflammation response† and liver, brain, heart, immune and cellular health.*
*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
Boiron Arnica montana reduces muscle pain, stiffness, swelling from injuries and bruises.* This homeopathic medicine will not interact with other medications or supplements or cause drowsiness. It will also not mask symptoms of a more serious condition. Easy to take, the oral pellets melt under the tongue without water, chewing or swallowing pills. Boiron Arnica montana is available over-the-counter in a multidose tube of approximately 80 oral pellets or a bonus pack of three multidose tubes.
*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Joint/Bone Support
Bone Strength Take Care by New Chapter, Inc.
New Chapter’s award-winning, clinical-strength, organic plant calcium is formulated to support strong bones and flexible joints, reduce the risk of osteoporosis,† and help maintain artery health. Research shows that many Americans aren’t getting enough calcium. Bone Strength Take Care can fill that nutritional gap with absorbable plant calcium to promote bone density and protect against bone loss that begins at age 30. Many calcium supplements are derived from chalk or limestone, which lacks other bone-supportive nutrients like magnesium. Bone Strength Take Care is different. For holistic bone health, it delivers USDA Organic whole-food calcium, magnesium and multiple other trace minerals. New Chapter also adds a proprietary blend of vitamins K2 and D3 to help your body absorb calcium properly and effectively.
† Adequate calcium throughout life, as part of a well-balanced diet, may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Women’s Health Supplement
Transitions, Menopause Support by Pure Essence Labs, Inc.
With more than 12,000 mg of whole food value, Transitions is an exquisite blend of botanicals and nutrients traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has used for thousands of years for feminine support. It is designed to promote maximum comfort during perimenopause and menopause. Transitions, Menopause Support helps with hot flashes,* supports positive mood,* breast health,* healthy stress response* and supports natural feminine balance,* and calms midlife discomforts.*
*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.
Pet Health Supplement
Hyaflex Pro Pure Canine Joint & Immune Liquid by Hyalogic
HyaFlex Pro Pure Canine Joint & Immune Liquid offers dogs of all sizes a liquid zinc formula for immune support along with hyaluronic acid for their joint, cartilage and connective tissue support. It is perfect for dogs with high joint concerns while keeping their immune systems healthy.
Men’s Health Supplement
Men’s ONE Whole Food-Based Multiple Vegetable Capsules by Bluebonnet Nutrition
Men work hard, and they need a multiple formula to help tackle the hits they receive from everyday stress, helping them balance the load between work and family life. That is why the nutritional scientists at Bluebonnet created Bluebonnet Nutrition’s Men’s ONE Whole Food-Based Multiple Vegetable Capsules, an adult male multiple that does more than filling their basic nutritional needs. This one-a-day multiple is bursting with more than 25 crucial vitamins, including all the coenzyme forms of the B vitamins, plus minerals—including Albion chelated minerals—in addition to an organic whole food vegetable blend, a plant-sourced enzyme blend, and a unique male health blend to address the specific nutrient needs of men, making it truly ONE of a kind. Plus, each serving delivers a complementary blend of nutrients that specifically address the following male health concerns:
• Male stamina *
• Prostate health*
• Cardio maintenance*
• Joint support*
• Additional antioxidant 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.
Brain Support Formula
MycoBotanicals Brain by Host Defense Mushrooms
MycoBotanicals Brain by Host Defense Mushroom supports concentration, memory and cognitive function.* Ginkgo, bacopa and gotu kola support brain health.* Lion’s mane and reishi mushrooms support neurological and adrenal function.
*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.
Weight Maintenance Formula
Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies by Goli Nutrition Inc.
The world’s first apple cider vinegar gummies. Finally, a delicious way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your daily routine! This patented formula is made with apple cider vinegar and a boost of essential B vitamins. Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies are vegan, gluten free, non-GMO and made with the highest quality ingredients. Taste the apple, not the vinegar.
Energy Formula
Energy Plus by Pure Essence Labs, Inc.
Energy Plus is a caffeine free, all-natural energy and focus formula. Perfect for both mental and physical vitality. The adaptogens and superior herbs in the formula are rich sources of the “Qi” and “Essence” energies made famous by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). These phytochemicals support: sustained energy without the jitters or crashes,* sharp mental focus* and healthy hair, skin and nails.*
*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.
Digestive Support Formula
Digest Gold by Enzymedica
Not all enzyme supplements are created equally. Digest Gold is one of the most potent enzyme formulas on the market and includes powerful enzymes like amy-lase, lipase, cellulose and protease. This No. 1-selling digestive blend prevents occasional bloating, gas and irregularity.* The high potency digestive enzyme blend in Digest Gold helps to quickly break down complex foods like proteins, carbohydrates, dairy, fats and fibers so digestion works more smoothly and bloating dissipates faster, even after eating large meals.*
The secret is in Enzymedica’s proprietary Thera-blend technology which allows the enzymes found in Digest Gold to work in the diverse pH ranges found in the digestive system. Other enzyme formulas can fall short because of limited activity in this pH environment.
*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
Clinical OPC Heart, Terry Naturally by EuroPharma
Clinical OPC Heart features concentrated levels of the most influential heart-healthy ingredients to help fill nutritional gaps in diet and promote optimal cardiovascular function.* Clinical OPC Heart delivers high quality, never adulterated, clinically studied ingredients in their most effective bioavailable forms, for excellent absorption and benefits. This combination of powerful nutrients and polyphenols supports overall cardiovascular function*
*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.
Immune Support Formula
Wellness Formula by Source Naturals, Inc.
Often imitated, but never duplicated, Wellness Formula is the legendary powerhouse of the immune support category. Winner of a record 17 Vity Awards, Wellness Formula has led the Immune Support category—which has only grown in importance—since establishing it in 1982. The iconic formulation’s 30-plus vitamins, minerals and time-tested herbs include key nutrients to support a healthy immune system. It delivers a high-potency dose of vitamin C, plus vitamin A & D, beta-carotene and zinc—all of which perform double duty as antioxidants. It also features time-tested herbs used for immune support such as echinacea, elderberry, astragalus and isatis. These nutrients work together to support the respiratory system, antioxidant defense and a healthy stress response. When customers want advanced immune support, Wellness Formula is the “go-to” favorite.*
*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 by Irwin Naturals
Steel-Libido supports and inspires sexual vitality.* This powerful formula combines traditional botanicals and targeted nutrients to support male enhancement and pleasure.* Use this product daily to maintain an active sex life, or occasionally as needed to maximize enjoyment.*
*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.
Functional Beverage
Extreme Edge Pre-Workout Formula by Bluebonnet Nutrition
To achieve the feelings of increased endurance and stamina to keep us going in our busy lives, whether it is to command a meeting, drive the kids all over town, or fit a workout into our full schedules, Bluebonnet Nutrition’s Extreme Edge Pre-Workout Powder is the perfect comprehensive energy boost. This recharging formula energizes your body and mind with plant-sourced caffeine (i.e., green tea and coffee bean), amino acids and beta-alanine, helping to drive performance from start to finish. This formula comes in three tasty flavors, Grape, Lemon and Strawberry Kiwi and is conveniently available in both single packs and canisters, to best fit your busy lifestyle. Take 15-30 minutes prior to your workout, or whenever you need a kickstart to your day.*
*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.
Liquid Aminos
Bragg Liquid Aminos Soy Protein Seasoning by Bragg Live Food Products, LLC
Bragg Liquid Aminos is an umami-packed, gluten-free liquid seasoning made from non-GMO verified soybeans. It delivers essential amino acids and is a perfect alternative to soy sauce. This irresistible seasoning is as flexible as it is delicious. Add to stir fires, rice, vegetable, marinades, eggs, protein dishes, popcorn, broths and recipes.
Sports Nutrition Bar
Whole Earth & Sea Organic Vegan Greens Protein Bars by Natural Factors
Made with raw organic ingredients and coated in organic dark chocolate, this is the perfect source of protein on the go. The Organic Vegan Greens Protein Bar offers 15 grams of delicious vegan protein and it doesn’t sacrifice one bit of flavor.
Muscle Enhancement
HMB Powder and HMB Double Strength 1,000 mg Tablets by NOW Sports
HMB (ß-Hydroxy ß-Methylbutyrate) is a clinically researched, naturally occurring metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. HMB normally plays a role in the regulation of protein breakdown in the body, helping to preserve lean muscle tissue.* HMB therefore can help to maintain muscle strength and mass when combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet.* In addition, it may help to enhance recovery from intense exercise.* All NOW Sports products undergo third-party certification for detection of banned substances to ensure product purity. The Informed-Sport certification program certifies that each and every batch of a supplement product and raw material bearing the Informed-Sport logo has been tested by LGC’s world-class sports anti-doping lab.
*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.
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.
Weight Gainer
MRM Gainer by MRM
MRM’s Gainer contains a special combination of whey protein concentrate, isolate and micellar casein to provide both fast and slow digesting proteins. This contributes all the essential amino acids to support lean muscle growth.* Gainer contains a clean carbohydrate complex of fast and slow digesting carbohydrates and fiber to provide a long-lasting source of energy without creating blood sugar spikes, which can be detrimental to healthy weight gain.* In addition, MRM included sunflower oil, a heart healthy oil high in unsaturated fats.* MRM added enzymes and probiotics to help balance the microbiome for better immune and digestive health so you can get the most from the foods you eat.* Available in Chocolate and Vanilla flavors, Gainer offers 25 g of complete protein, added digestive enzymes and probiotics, and BCAA+G for muscle recovery.* It is also hormone- and BSE free.
*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.
Natural Medicine Category
Natural Allergy/Hay Fever Remedy
Adult Sinus Support by Redd Remedies
Adult Sinus Support by Redd Remedies takes a triple action approach to sinus and bronchial health. This formula delivers the right combination of high quality herbs and nutrients to effectively support the immune, respiratory and digestive systems and bring the body back into balance. Adult Sinus also comes in a convenient travel size for support on-the-go! Adult Sinus Support is one of 10 interactive products in our Sinus & Respiratory Suite designed to provide fast-acting, natural solutions for the whole family.
Seasonal Support
ColdCalm by Boiron
Unlike conventional medications that mask full-blown symptoms, Boiron ColdCalm tablets target specific cold symptoms at the onset, established and resolution stages of the common cold. This homeopathic cold relief medicine is easy to take at first sign to relieve sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and minor sore throat pain.* The tablets dissolve quickly under the tongue without water, chewing or swallowing pills. It is non-drowsy and does not interact with other medications or supplements. ColdCalm is not habit-forming and there’s no risk of a rebound. Recommended for everyone ages 3 and up, it’s available over-the-counter in a box of 60 unflavored tablets. The ColdCalm line includes slightly sweet melt-away pellets for children and liquid doses for babies.
*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Headache Remedy
Curamin Headache Relief, Terry Naturally by EuroPharma
It is estimated that up to 80 percent of Americans deal with occasional headaches due to stress or fatigue. Curamin Headache Relief*† combines strong ingredients from Terry Naturally’s award-winning and well-loved Curamin formula with ingredients targeted to relieve occasional headaches due to tension or stress.*
*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.
Natural Indigestion Remedy
Acid Soothe by Enzymedica
Favorite foods can once again be enjoyed with Acid Soothe, a multi-functional indigestion remedy with herbs to soothe the digestive tract, zinc carnosine to repair the gut lining, and enzymes to break down troublesome foods.* Its powerful formula contains Thera-blend enzymes to help break down carbohydrates, fats, fiber and protein,* while allowing for benefits across the whole digestive tract and at multiple pH levels.*
Acid Soothe also contains a blend of minerals and botanicals. They include zinc carnosine to optimize the mucosal lining of the stomach; marshmallow root to relieve irritation of the mucous membranes in the gut and help balance the amount of mucous that is made; papaya leaf to soothe and cleanse the gut; and gotu kola for additional gut tissue 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.
Natural Sleep Remedy
Stress-Relax Tranquil Sleep Chewable by Natural Factors
Stress-Relax Tranquil Sleep formula is a unique combination of compounds that support relaxation and enhance natural sleep quality.* In a tasty, tropical fruit-flavored chewable tablet.
*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.
Supplier Merchandising Support Category
Best Supplier-Provided Educational Materials
Terry Naturally by EuroPharma
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. We believe that quality information is needed to make informed health decisions. Our 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 Computerized 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.
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