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From Snake Oil to Science: How Supplements Became a $200B Ecommerce Powerhouse

We’re kicking off a brand new season and diving deep into one of the fastest-growing—and most fascinating—sectors in e-commerce: Supplements!

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Sourcify
September 30, 2025

We’re kicking off a brand new season and diving deep into one of the fastest-growing—and most fascinating—sectors in e-commerce: Supplements!

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

  • History Meets Hype: Supplements started as cures for deadly deficiencies (remember rickets, pellagra, or beriberi?) and evolved into the “insurance policy” multivitamins many of us grew up with.

  • Science vs. Snake Oil: The duo explored the ongoing push and pull between evidence-based formulas versus trend-driven, lightly regulated “miracle cures.”

  • Regulation Rollercoaster: Did you know the U.S. regulatory environment is MUCH looser than the EU or Asia? That’s why it’s so easy to start a supplement brand stateside (sometimes for better, sometimes for worse).

  • Supply Chain Secrets: Even if your vitamins are “Made in the USA,” chances are most key ingredients—like 70% of the world’s vitamin C—come from China or India!

  • Modern Moves: From TikTok-driven launches to big-box retailers requiring new levels of third-party testing, the market is more transparent and trend-driven than ever.

  • Booming Brands & What’s Next: Whether it’s protein chips, creatine gummies, or biohacker “longevity pills,” this industry is on fire... but there’s big debate over what’s real, what’s safe, and what’s just wishful thinking.

The Hot Question for Our Community: Have YOU tried traditional medicines or supplements—Chinese herbal concoctions, ayurvedic remedies, or old-school home cures? Hit “reply” and tell us your story! We might feature your experience on an upcoming show.

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