How to Tell If Probiotics From Amazon Are Fake: 7 Checks
How can you tell if probiotics from Amazon are fake? Check the seller, packaging, seal, lot number, capsules and storage conditions. Counterfeit probiotics have been sold on Amazon: in 2019, Align warned some of its probiotics sold there could be fake, and Amazon told buyers to stop using them. These 7 checks help you spot fakes.
Key takeaways
- Probiotics from Amazon.com, the brand's store or an authorized reseller are your safest option.
- Align warned of counterfeit probiotics sold on Amazon in 2019.
- ConsumerLab has reported counterfeit Pure Encapsulations and GutConnect 365 products sold on Amazon.
- Look for CFU counts guaranteed through expiration, not just at manufacture.
- Refrigerated probiotics should arrive cold.
In this guide
- The quick answer
- 7 checks for fake probiotics
- Real vs fake at a glance
- What to do if your probiotics seem fake
- Frequently asked questions
The quick answer
Buy from Amazon.com, the brand or an authorized reseller, prefer shelf-stable products online, and compare the packaging and capsules with the brand's photos.
7 checks to tell if probiotics from Amazon are fake
1. Check who sold them
Amazon.com, the brand's store or an authorized reseller is safest.
2. Check the brand's authorized seller list
Some supplement brands list authorized Amazon sellers on their websites.
3. Compare the price
Popular brands far below normal prices from unknown sellers are a red flag.
4. Inspect the packaging
Compare printing, logos and blister packs with the brand's photos.
5. Check the seal and lot number
The seal should be intact, with a printed lot number and expiry date.
6. Compare the capsules
Capsules should match the brand's description in color, size and markings.
7. Check storage
Refrigerated probiotics should arrive cold. Look for CFUs guaranteed through expiration.
Real vs fake probiotics at a glance
| Check | Genuine | Suspect |
|---|---|---|
| Seller | Amazon.com, brand or authorized reseller | Unknown seller, deep discount |
| Packaging | Matches brand's photos | Different printing or blisters |
| Capsules | Match description | Different color or size |
| Storage | Arrives as labeled | Refrigerated product arrives warm |
What to do if your probiotics seem fake
- Stop taking them, and talk to your doctor if you feel unwell.
- Photograph the seal, lot number and the offer page showing the seller.
- Contact the brand with the lot number.
- Request a refund in Your Orders, and report problems to the FDA.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if probiotics are fake?
Check the seller, packaging, seal, lot number, capsules and storage.
Have fake probiotics been sold on Amazon?
Yes. Align warned of counterfeits in 2019, and ConsumerLab has reported others.
Should I buy refrigerated probiotics online?
Only from sellers who ship them cold. Shelf-stable products are safer online.
What does CFU guaranteed through expiration mean?
The brand promises the live count until the expiry date, not just when it was made.
Does Fulfilled by Amazon mean probiotics are genuine?
No. It means Amazon stores and ships a third-party seller's stock.
Can I return probiotics?
Ingestible items are often non-returnable, but suspected fakes count as materially different.
The bottom line
Buy from trusted sellers and check every bottle on arrival. For more, see whether it's safe to buy probiotics on Amazon.