Comparison
How to Compare Multivitamins: The Criteria That Actually Separate Them
This page gives you a comparison framework to apply in any pharmacy aisle, against any brand, in any of the countries we cover — so you pick the multivitamin that fits you.
Multivitamins can look alike on the shelf, yet each formula is built differently. The differences sit in the nutrient table on the back, and they are easy to read once you know what you are looking at.
Start with a question rather than a product: which nutrients do you want to top up? Knowing that makes it easy to choose between a broad formula and a targeted single-nutrient product.
No product table on this page. Multivitamins are a retail pharmacy category rather than a direct-order one, so this page sets out the criteria you can apply yourself at a Goodlife, Clicks, HealthPlus or Ernest Chemists shelf.
What to compare on
Amounts against reference intakes
Every reputable label states the amount and the percentage of a reference intake. Look for nutrients in the 50–150 % range rather than several hundred per cent.
Iron content
Men and postmenopausal women generally do not need supplemental iron, so an iron-free formula suits them best.
Vitamin A form
Retinol carries an upper limit and is unsafe at high doses in pregnancy. Beta-carotene does not carry the same concern but should be avoided by smokers.
Nutrient forms
Vitamin D3 rather than D2; methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin for B12; citrate or glycinate rather than oxide for magnesium.
Servings per day
A two-tablet daily dose doubles the real price.
Format
Gummies are pleasant to take and ideal for people who find tablets hard to swallow; tablets and capsules usually carry a fuller mineral range.
Methodology and limitations
- This page compares criteria rather than named products, so it works for any multivitamin you pick up.
- The criteria are drawn from public nutrient reference intakes and from the labelling requirements applied across the markets we cover.
Editorial Rating. Each product in the table has its own Editorial Rating on its product page, scored by code against five published criteria: order route, price, pack photo, format and directions, and composition detail.
Related categories
Related health topics
Frequently asked questions
Is an expensive multivitamin better?
Compare the nutrient table, the nutrient forms and the servings per day — that tells you what each pack gives you for the price.
Should I take one at all?
A varied diet comes first. A well-chosen multivitamin is a convenient top-up, especially if your diet is restricted or you are in a specific group such as pregnancy planning or later life.
Medical disclaimer. BioMedic Africa publishes consumer health information and supplement research summaries. It is not a pharmacy, a clinic or a medicines regulator, and nothing here is a diagnosis, a prescription or a treatment plan. Dietary supplements are foods, not medicines: they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Speak with a pharmacist or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, living with a long-term condition, or taking prescription medication.
Commercial disclosure. Some links on this page lead to an order form operated through a partner network. If you order through them, BioMedic Africa may receive a commission. This never changes the price you pay and does not influence which ingredients or products we describe. Full affiliate disclosure.