Label check
Mineral amount vs mineral-source weight
A mineral row and the name of its source are different pieces of information. Read the declared nutrient amount rather than treating the source compound name as a second dose.
Part of Medicines
This check covers US labels. Start with the exact package and variant you have, then use the steps below. Explore more supplements checks.
What to look at
- Find the nutrient row in Supplement Facts.
- Read the source in parentheses.
- Use the declared amount for label comparison, not a guessed compound conversion.
Read this label.
Calcium (as calcium carbonate): 200 mg
Illustrative excerpt · not a real productThe row declares calcium, with calcium carbonate identified as its source. Do not add another amount just because two names appear.
Why this reading matters
Read the serving basis before the ingredient amounts. A mineral source can be named beside the nutrient; botanical plant parts and proprietary blends carry additional information that a headline number can hide. US Food and Drug Administration.
What the label cannot settle
This does not compare absorption or recommend a mineral dose.
Put the check to work
Compare the exact words and amounts on your package with the example. If a panel is missing, a photo is unreadable or the manufacturer has not disclosed a detail, keep that detail as unknown. A different flavor, shade or formulation needs its own check.
For names used in this check, read calcium carbonate. For the full reading method, use our supplements label guide. The medicines and supplements guide adds context for your needs.
A useful next check
- Reading the plant part in a botanical supplement
- What Daily Value not established means
- Reading the serving size on gummy supplements
Sources read and this label example reviewed on 2026-09-23. Examples are illustrative, not product tests or clinical reviews.
Sources
- Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide: Nutrition Labeling US Food and Drug Administration · fda.gov Serving basis, source forms, botanical plant parts, blends; not historical nutrient reference values