What Is a Proprietary Blend?

A proprietary blend groups several dietary ingredients under one blend name and lists the total weight of the blend instead of the individual amount of every ingredient.

Ingredients still appear in order

Within the blend, ingredients are generally listed in descending order by weight. That gives some information, but not the exact amount of each one.

The total blend weight matters

A 1,000-milligram blend containing five ingredients is different from a 100-milligram blend with the same names. Start with the total amount.

Why brands use blends

Companies can use proprietary blends to simplify a label or protect formula ratios. The tradeoff is lower dose transparency for the shopper.

How to compare

If individual amounts matter to you, a fully disclosed formula is easier to evaluate. Do not assume a long proprietary blend provides a meaningful dose of every ingredient.

Quick checklist

Use the product label, manufacturer directions, and the specific requirements of your situation. Compare the complete product or system rather than making a decision from one marketing phrase, ingredient, or number.