BioStacks
GNC

Saw Palmetto Extract 160 mg

1 Softgel · 100 servings · $0.30/serving

19 / 100Very Poor

Score Breakdown

Formulation
32
Safety
59
Final score
19/100

Ingredients (3)

Saw Palmetto berries extract

100%

Dose

160 mg

Target

160–320 mg

Form

Budget

Fatty Acids

136 mg

Not in our database

Sterols

0.3 mg

Not in our database

Other Ingredients (5)

Caramel ColorColor

Class III and IV caramel colors contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans) in 2011 (Monograph Vol. 101). California Prop 65 lists 4-MEI as a known carcinogen; products delivering >29 mcg/day require a cancer warning label. NTP TR-535 (2007) found 4-MEI caused lung tumors in mice. Major cola brands (Coca-Cola, Pepsi) voluntarily reformulated 2012-2014 to reduce 4-MEI below California thresholds. Because labels never specify Class I (sugar + heat only, safer) vs Class III/IV (ammonia-process, contains 4-MEI), consumers cannot verify which they're consuming. Combined with the additive's purely cosmetic purpose, the risk:benefit ratio is unfavorable for any supplement.

Titanium DioxideColorant

Banned in the EU (2022) over concerns that its ultra-fine particles may damage DNA in gut cells. Still allowed in the US. Used only for white coloring — provides no health benefit.

GelatinCapsule

Protein derived from collagen, used in traditional capsule shells

GlycerinHumectant

Sweet-tasting liquid used in soft capsules and liquids

Extra Virgin Olive OilCarrier

Cold-pressed olive oil used as a carrier and filler in softgel capsules for fat-soluble nutrients

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Sources & Scoring

Nutrient data (RDA, UL, and safety thresholds) sourced from: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and National Academies Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI).

This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine.

The score analyzes what's on the label: ingredient doses vs. clinical ranges, chemical forms, evidence levels, and known interactions. It does not verify label accuracy or test for contaminants — for that, look for third-party certifications like USP or NSF.