5 Best Vegan Multivitamins With No Animal Ingredients

ES Fil FR KO VI

For all you strict vegans out there avoiding any food sourced from animals, you might be missing out on some important nutrients. To bridge this nutritional gap, many vegans choose to supplement with vegan multivitamin complexes. Vegan multivitamins are specifically designed for individuals following a vegan diet, providing a range of vitamins and minerals that may be difficult to obtain from a vegan diet alone.

In this article, we’ll introduce the key ingredients and research behind vegan multivitamins, discuss common certifications and their significance, and recommend 5 top-notch vegan multivitamin products available in the market.

Advantages of a Vegan Diet

A vegan diet can provide numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Not all vegan diets require additional vitamin supplementation. With proper dietary planning, most of these nutritional needs can be met.

The basic principle is to choose healthy plant-based foods in your diet, including whole fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains, while reducing intake of sugary beverages, fruit juices, and refined grains. Here is a diet plan recommended by the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans for vegetarians. All foods are assumed to be nutrient-dense, lean, or low-fat, without added fats, sugars, refined starches, or salt.

Food TypesDaily Amount
Vegetables2.5 cups
Fruits2 cups
Grains6.5 ounces / 185 grams
Dairy3 cups
Protein Foods3.5 ounces / 100 grams
Oils27 grams
*Calorie Intake: 2,000 calories per day

Key Nutrients Vegans May Be at Risk of Deficiency

Vegans are more susceptible to deficiencies in certain crucial nutrients, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, iodine, and zinc. These nutrients are abundant in animal products but are less commonly found or have lower absorption rates in plant-based foods.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a crucial micronutrient that the body requires for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. However, individuals following a vegan diet, which avoids all animal-derived products, may lack vitamin B12 as it is not naturally produced in plant-based foods. Therefore, vegans must find alternative sources of vitamin B12 to maintain optimal health. Substitutes for vitamin B12 include yogurt, low-fat milk, fortified plant-based milk, cheese, eggs, and fortified cereals.

  • A review of 48 studies published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2020 found that compared to other dietary patterns, vegetarian diets generally have lower protein intake. Specifically, vegetarianism is often associated with lower intake of micronutrients such as B2, B3, B12, D, iodine, zinc, calcium, potassium, and selenium. The intake of vitamin B12 among vegetarians was significantly lower (0.24-0.49 micrograms, recommended intake is 2.4 micrograms).[1] Trusted Website ScienceDirect.com is a trusted database of scientific and medical publications. Open the link →
  • In another study conducted in 2022, involving 1,530 vegetarians, the focus was primarily on their vitamin B12 intake and status. The results showed that among all participants, 41% were able to obtain sufficient vitamin B12 from food and supplements, which is at least 2.4 micrograms per day, while approximately 45% had daily vitamin B12 intake below the recommended level.[2]

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may take several years to manifest. Deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue or weakness, which are symptoms of megaloblastic anemia, a hallmark of vitamin B12 deficiency. The skin may become pale, and there may be heart palpitations, decreased appetite, weight loss, and fertility problems. Hands and feet may become numb or experience a tingling sensation, indicating nerve issues. Other symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include balance problems, depression, confusion, dementia, poor memory, and pain in the mouth or tongue.

Vitamin D

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Iron

Calcium

Iodine

Zinc

In addition to the listed ingredients, it is also important to ensure that the multivitamin itself is vegan. Some vitamins are made with gelatin, which is derived from animal sources. Vegan multivitamins use plant-based alternatives and are typically labeled as “Vegan.” Be sure to check the product label for this information.

Nutrient Intake Recommendations

For vegetarians, the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for certain nutrients are typically higher than for the general population. This is because the plant-based forms of these nutrients are not as easily absorbed. For example, based on research data, the RDA for iron for vegetarians is 1.8 times higher than for the general population. Supplements may also contain higher levels of specific nutrients to address similar absorption challenges.[18] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →

It is also important to avoid exceeding the tolerable upper intake levels (UL) when taking supplements. Water-soluble vitamins, including B vitamins and vitamin C, are unlikely to be overdosed as the body eliminates excess amounts. On the other hand, fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K can be stored in fatty tissues, posing a risk if consumed in excessive amounts. Certain minerals, including iron, calcium, iodine, magnesium, selenium, and copper, can also be toxic at high doses.

Recommended dosages depend on diet patterns and specific supplementation needs. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before selecting a supplement to determine which one is most suitable for you and to establish the recommended dosage for consumption. Additionally, undergoing annual blood tests can help ensure that micronutrient levels in your body are within a healthy range.

Industry Certifications and Meanings

In the US market, vegan multivitamin products can obtain various certifications to demonstrate their quality, compliance, and reliability. These certification labels provide consumers with confidence in the products and help them make informed purchasing decisions.

Here are some of the relevant certifications that vegan multivitamins may obtain. Please note that there are multiple types and designs for each certification, and the following images are for illustrative purposes only.

Vegan Certification

Vegan certification ensures that vegan multivitamin products do not contain any animal-derived ingredients, meeting the dietary requirements of vegans. Common vegan certifications in the US market include those issued by the Vegan Society and Certified Vegan. These certification labels convey an important message to consumers that the product does not use any animal ingredients, aligning with the ethical and lifestyle choices of vegans.

Vegan SocietyCertified Vegan

Non-GMO Certification

Non-GMO certification is another important type of certification that verifies that the ingredients used in vegan multivitamin products have not been genetically modified. In the United States, Non-GMO Project Verified is one of the most well-known non-GMO certifications. This certification ensures that all ingredients in the product have undergone rigorous scrutiny by the certifying body to exclude GMO factors, providing consumers with a reliable choice.

Non-GMO Project Verified

Organic Certification

Organic certification is relevant for vegan multivitamin products made with organic plant-based ingredients. In the United States, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for managing and issuing organic certification. Products that obtain organic certification must comply with a set of organic farming and production standards, including requirements such as no chemical pesticides, no genetically modified organisms, and no contamination. Organic certification provides consumers with confidence, ensuring that the products they purchase adhere to strict organic standards.

USDA Organic Certification

GMP Certification

GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice Certification) ensures that vegan multivitamin products follow good manufacturing practices during the production process. GMP certification guarantees that the production environment of the product meets standards of hygiene, safety, and quality control. Manufacturers that obtain GMP certification must adhere to a set of strict guidelines and procedures to ensure product consistency and quality. Consumers can confidently purchase vegan multivitamin products that have been professionally produced and hold GMP certification.

GMP Certification

Third-Party Testing

Some vegan multivitamin products may undergo third-party testing to verify the accuracy of their ingredient lists, the content of ingredients, and their purity. Third-party testing is conducted by independent laboratories and provides objective results and verification. Consumers can have confidence in purchasing and using these products. Some well-known third-party testing organizations include NSF International and UL (Underwriters Laboratories).

NSF InternationalUL Certified

1. Future Kind Essential: Precise and Concise Formula

Future Kind Essential includes essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining brain, heart, mood, and immune system health. Suitable for individuals aged 11 and above, it can help improve energy, mental clarity, and positive mood. It is also a formula that is unlikely to cause nausea.

Compared to similar products, Future Kind Essential has a more concise formulation, providing the three essential nutrients that are most likely lacking in a vegan diet. It also avoids excessive intake of other nutrients such as Vitamin A and C, which are easily obtained in a balanced vegan diet and generally do not require additional supplementation.

*60 capsules; Price at the time of writing; Discounts available for subscribing to regular deliveries

Having fewer ingredients also has its limitations. The product does not contain zinc, iodine, or iron. You can determine if you are deficient in these elements through blood tests. If you are deficient, you may need to seek out more comprehensive multivitamin supplements. Future Kind also offers a more comprehensive multivitamin product called Future Kind Complete.

Future Kind is an environmentally conscious and health-driven brand that focuses on providing high-quality and affordable nutritional supplements for vegans. The founder of the brand is a certified nutritionist and a vegan advocate. All of their products are 100% vegan and manufactured in FDA-regulated GMP-certified facilities in the United States. Each product undergoes third-party testing, and customers can request complete third-party testing reports directly from the brand.

Ingredients

IngredientsAmount
Vitamin B12500 mcg / 2000 IU
Vitamin D400 mcg
Omega-3 Fatty Acid900 mg
*No additives: GMOs, gluten, wheat, yeast, nuts, soy, sugar, salt, animal-derived ingredients, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Key Benefits

  • Provides energy: Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in energy production and helps maintain a healthy nervous system.
  • Improves mood: Omega-3 fatty acids are used to treat mood disorders.
  • Enhances focus and concentration.
  • Boosts immune function.
  • Supports healthy aging processes.
  • Promotes healthy bones, joints, and brain function.

How to Use

Take 2 softgel capsules daily with water.

Suitable for individuals of all age groups, from adults and teenagers to children aged 11 and above.

Pregnant or lactating mothers, individuals under 18 years of age, and those with known medical conditions should consult a doctor before using this product or any dietary supplements. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in this product, please refrain from using it. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and keep out of reach of children.

Potential Side Effects

Generally, it is considered safe and does not cause any serious side effects. Some common side effects may include stomach discomfort, headache, or a temporary change in taste or odor. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they tend to diminish as your body adjusts to the supplement.

2. Mindbodygreen Ultimate: Comprehensive and High-Efficiency Formula

Mindbodygreen Ultimate Multivitamin is a comprehensive daily multivitamin supplement that contains 33 ingredients, including 14 vitamins, 13 minerals, and 6 plant-based bioactive compounds. It supports a healthy immune system, heart, bones, skin, hair, and nails. This product is the most comprehensive multivitamin we have found in terms of nutritional elements, and it is also a vegan supplement, free from animal-derived ingredients.

* 60 capsules; price at the time of writing; discounts available for subscribing to regular deliveries

Mindbodygreen is a brand established in 2009, headquartered in New York. Their product line includes supplements, skincare, and personal care products, targeting various common health concerns such as sleep, digestion, immunity, skin, and mood. Their products are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from additives, and they undergo third-party laboratory testing.

Ingredients

Nutritional TypeIngredients
VitaminsA 、 C 、 D 、 E 、 K1 、 K2 、 Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, B6, Biotin, Folate, B12
MineralsCalcium, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Molybdenum, Selenium, Zinc, Potassium, Boron, Silicon
AntioxidantsGlutathione, Resveratrol, Piperine, Lycopene, Lutein, Zeaxanthin
[1] Vitamin D3 derived from algae, with a dosage of 2000 IU per capsule.
[2] Bioavailable B-Complex vitamins, with intake levels of all 8 B vitamins exceeding 200% of the recommended daily intake.
[3] Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free.

Click to view the detailed ingredient list.

Key Benefits

  • Boost Immunity: Contains nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, and Selenium that enhance the immune system.
  • Protect the Heart: Includes ingredients like Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin B12, Folate, and Magnesium that promote heart health.
  • Strengthen Bones: Contains Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K2 that support bone density and structure.
  • Enhance Skin Beauty: Includes elements like collagen precursors, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E that improve skin elasticity and hydration.
  • Nourish Hair and Nails: Contains minerals like biotin, zinc, selenium, and iron that promote the growth and quality of hair and nails.
  • Balance Hormones: Includes plant-based compounds like grape seed extract, soy isoflavones, and plant sterols that regulate estrogen levels and alleviate menopausal symptoms.
  • Boost Energy: Contains nutrients like B-complex vitamins, chromium, manganese, and catechins that increase metabolism and energy production.

How to Use

Take 2 capsules daily, with water.

Potential Side Effects

It is generally safe and does not cause serious side effects. However, like any multivitamin supplement, it may cause mild digestive discomfort such as constipation, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, or nausea. These side effects are usually temporary and will resolve within a few days. If you experience these symptoms, you can try reducing the dosage or taking it with meals. If the symptoms persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

3. Wholier Plant-Based: Pure Plant-based Formulation

The most unique aspect of Wholier Plant-Based Multivitamin is its pure plant-based formulation, which is supported by scientific research. Unlike many similar products that use synthetic vitamins and minerals, Wholier provides vitamins and minerals sourced from organic foods—based on the belief that nutrients should come from daily food intake.

* 30 capsules; price at the time of writing; discounts available for subscription-based delivery.

Wholier is formulated with 8 vitamins and minerals sourced from fermented chickpeas, algae, gluten-free nutritional yeast, and rice, among others. Algae provides vitamin D3 and Omega-3 (DHA and EPA), while fermented chickpeas provide vitamin K2 and the methylcobalamin form of vitamin B12. Other notable ingredients include spirulina, MCT oil, and bergamot oil, which give the complex vitamin a pleasant citrus taste and make it less likely to cause nausea.

It’s important to note that Wholier Complex Vitamin contains 8 mg of iron, which provides 44% of the recommended daily intake. While this dosage is sufficient to supplement a diet rich in plant-based iron sources, it may not be enough in certain cases. Vegans and menstruating women should pay attention to their iron intake.

Wholier is a brand that offers plant-based nutrients and functional foods. Their products are manufactured in the United States and feature scientifically supported formulas, active forms of nutrients, minimal ingredient lists, transparent sourcing, and sustainable packaging.

Ingredients

IngredientsAmount
Vitamin D320 mcg
Vitamin B12150 mcg
Iron8 mg
Iodine100 mcg
Zinc11 mg
Selenium55 mcg
Omega-3 Fatty Acid225 mg
Vitamin K290 mcg
* Free from carrageenan and gluten, synthetic fillers or colorants, non-GMO

Key Benefits

The ingredients in Wholier have been scientifically researched and proven to be essential for normal physiological functions in the body. For example, vitamin D3 helps in calcium absorption and maintaining bone health, Omega-3 reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and vitamin B12 is crucial for the health of the nervous system.

Wholier fulfills the body’s requirements for essential nutrients, boosts energy levels, maintains vitality, promotes bone health, improves brain and heart health, supports the immune system, and provides optimal metabolic function. It also helps maintain a positive mental state, reduces stress and anxiety, and enhances sleep quality.

Additionally, as all the ingredients are derived from plants, Wholier also contributes to reducing environmental impact.

How to Use

It is recommended to take 1 tablet per day, preferably with a meal. Taking it with food can aid in better absorption by the body.

Potential Side Effects

For most people, Wholier Plant-Based Multivitamin is safe to use and does not have any known side effects. However, individual responses to nutritional supplements may vary, and some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplements.

4. Ritual Essential: Clinical Evidence Supports The Best Formula for Women 18+

Ritual Essential Women 18+ is a multivitamin supplement specifically designed for women aged 18 and above. The formula is tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of women. It includes all the essential vitamins and minerals that women’s bodies require, such as folate, iron, and calcium, all sourced from natural foods rather than synthetic sources. This supplement also features a unique capsule design that ensures ingredient release in the intestine for optimal absorption.

* 60 capsules; price at the time of writing; discounts available for choosing subscription delivery

The most notable feature of Ritual Essential is its clinically validated efficacy. The brand conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in collaboration with Auburn University, involving 94 adult women. The trial results showed that after 12 weeks of use, Ritual Essential significantly increased participants’ vitamin D levels (by 43%) and Omega-3 DHA levels (by 41%), surpassing the placebo group. The clinical research findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Nutrition.

Ritual offers a range of women’s multivitamin products in addition to the Essential formula for women 18+. They have specific formulations for women 50+, pre and postnatal, as well as various formulas designed for men, teenagers, and children. All of these products can be purchased directly from Ritual website.

Ingredients

IngredientsAmount
Vitamin D350 mcg
Vitamin E6.7 mg
Folic Acid1000 mcg
Vitamin B128 mcg
Iron8 mg
Magnesium30 mg
Boron0.7 mg
Omega-3 Fatty Acid330 mg
Vitamin K290 mcg
* Free from any artificial additives; capsule dyes; gluten-free; soy-free.

Key Benefits

Provides daily nutritional support, supports heart health, boosts immune function, protects bone health, offers antioxidant protection, prevents anemia, and addresses other health concerns. These benefits are attributed to its comprehensive and balanced formula of ingredients.

How to Use

Take 2 capsules daily, with or without food. It is recommended to take them with breakfast.

Potential Side Effects

It may cause some temporary stomach discomfort. However, this side effect is usually short-term. If you are taking any other medications or have any health concerns, please consult your doctor before using it.

5. MyKind Organics Women’s: USDA Organic Certified Formula

Mykind is a vegan supplement series under the American health products brand Garden of Life. Garden of Life offers a variety of health products, including vitamins, protein powders, enzymes, probiotics, and more, but only the Mykind series is specifically designed for vegans.

What sets Mykind Organics Women’s Multivitamin apart from similar products is its organic and non-GMO ingredients. It is a USDA Organic certified supplement that contains 16 vitamins and minerals, all sourced from organic ingredients, including powders from over 30 organic fruits, herbs, and vegetables. It is free from synthetic additives, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from pesticide and herbicide residues.

* 30-count; price at the time of writing; also available in a 60-count option

In addition to the common vitamins and minerals, this multivitamin also contains probiotics and amino acids that support nutrient absorption, as well as vegan-friendly D3 and 10 milligrams of iron. The vitamin B12 content it provides is 500% of the daily requirement, which is especially important for vegans who are more prone to B12 deficiency. However, it’s important to note that this vitamin does not include iodine and calcium.

Ingredietns

IngredientsAmount
Vitamin A 900 mcg 
Vitamin C90 mg 
Vitamin D25 mcg (1,000 IU)
Vitamin E16 mg 
Vitamin K120 mcg 
Thiamine1.38 mg 
Riboflavin1.5 mg 
Niacin18.4 mg 
Vitamin B68.5 mg 
Folic Acid400 mcg
Vitamin B125 mcg 
Biotin120 mcg 
Pantothenic Acid5 mg 
Iron2.5 mg 
Zinc3.9 mg 
Selenium55 mcg 
Magnesium0.8 mg 
Chromium35 mcg 
* No added synthetic ingredients, gluten-free, non-GMO, no pesticide and herbicide residues, kosher-certified.

Key Benefits

By providing comprehensive and balanced vitamins and minerals, it helps enhance women’s overall health, including boosting immunity, supporting energy production, protecting bone health, and maintaining heart health.

How to Use

Take 1 tablet daily, preferably after a meal, but it is not necessary to take it with food.

Potential Side Effects

Since the ingredients are all natural, generally speaking, there are fewer side effects. Some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications, please consult your doctor before starting any new nutritional supplements.

18 references

[1]. Dimitra Rafailia Bakaloudi et al. Intake and adequacy of the vegan diet. A systematic review of the evidence. Clin Nutr. 2021.

[2]. Amanda J. Benham, et al. Vitamin B12 Supplementation Adequacy in Australian Vegan Study Participants. Nutrients. 2022.

[3]. Cynthia Aranow. Vitamin D and the Immune System. PMC. 2012.

[4]. Rebecca E S Anglin. Vitamin D deficiency and depression in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Psychiatry. 2013.

[5]. Schüpbach R, at el. Micronutrient status and intake in omnivores, vegetarians and vegans in Switzerland. Eur J Nutr. 2017.

[6]. Tripkovic L, et al. Daily supplementation with 15 μg vitamin D2 compared with vitamin D3 to increase wintertime 25-hydroxyvitamin D status in healthy South Asian and white European women: a 12-wk randomized, placebo-controlled food-fortification trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2017.

[7]. Gretchen V, at el. Position of the academy of nutrition and dietetics: dietary fatty acids for healthy adults. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2014.

[8]. Theresa G. at el. Effects of a 12-week high-α-linolenic acid intervention on EPA and DHA concentrations in red blood cells and plasma oxylipin pattern in subjects with a low EPA and DHA status. Food Funct. 2018.

[9]. Aleksandra Śliwińska, et al. Iron status and dietary iron intake in vegetarians. Adv Clin Exp Med. 2018.

[10]. Nicole N., Ans E. Nutrient Intake and Status in Adults Consuming Plant-Based Diets Compared to Meat-Eaters: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2022.

[11]. Top Foods High in Iron for Vegans – WebMD. (2020).

[12]. C. Melina, at el. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Vegetarian Diets. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2018.

[13]. Tong, T.Y.N., Vegetarian and vegan diets and risks of total and site-specific fractures: results from the prospective EPIC-Oxford study. BMC Medicine. 2020.

[14]. Leung AM, et al. Iodine status and thyroid function of Boston-area vegetarians and vegans. Public Health Nutr. 2011.

[15]. Krajcovicová-Kudlácková M, et al. Iodine Status, Thyroid Function, and Vegetarianism. Front Nutr. 2017.

[16]. Tonstad S, et al. Vegan diets and hypothyroidism. Nutrients. 2013.

[17]. Foster M, et al. Zinc and vegetarian diets. Med J Aust. 2013.

[18]. Pawlak R, et al. Iron status of vegetarian adults: A review of literature. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2018.

Angela Liu

Love reading, love running, love binge-watching shows, love vegetarian food.

Disclosure: We are an Amazon Associate. Some links on this website are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission or receive a referral fee when you sign up or make a purchase through those links.

Related Posts

Didn't find what you're looking for?
Please try our powerful search tool!

Comments

Leave a Reply

Stock images sponsored by depositphotos.com