The Truth About Ingredient Sourcing in Supplement Manufacturing
When brands think about supplement manufacturing, they usually only focus on the final product—the label, the flavor, and how fast it can get to market. These are all important, of course, but one part of the process takes more time than most realize—and it’s also the most critical: sourcing high-quality ingredients and packaging materials.
At Factory6, sourcing isn’t a background task. It’s the foundation of product quality, compliance, and brand reputation. It’s also the longest step in the manufacturing timeline, and for good reason.
Here’s why sourcing is a time-intensive, non-negotiable part of supplement manufacturing and how it impacts your product’s success.
Why Sourcing Takes Time—and Why It Should
Creating a supplement that performs consistently and meets regulatory standards isn’t possible without premium ingredients and verified packaging components. Securing those materials is a strategic process, not just a purchase order.
Brands that value quality, consistency, and consumer trust need to understand that sourcing is where timelines are made or missed. This stage takes time because it’s the only way to guarantee a product is worth selling. On average, orders take 8-10 weeks, which starts after we receive your down payment.
Take a look at an example timeline:
Step 1 - Place orders with various suppliers (1 week)
Step 2 - Confirm that suppliers are preparing shipment (1 week*)
*Custom flavors and specialty ingredients can take up to 4 weeks
Step 3 - Orders arrive and we prepare all ingredients for third-party testing (1-4 weeks)
Step 4 - Testing is in process and Factory6 analyzes the results (1 week)
Step 5 - Production begins! Pre-weigh, blending, testing (1 week)
Step 6 - Manufacturing of product and final testing (1 week)
Packing and shipping take place after the final payment is received.
Ingredient Sourcing Is Strategic, Not Instant
Sourcing nutraceutical ingredients starts with finding the right suppliers, not just the fastest or cheapest. At Factory6, we only work with GMP-certified suppliers who can provide full traceability and regulatory documentation for every ingredient.
Each supplier must submit:
Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for every batch
Documentation confirming origin, handling, and compliance
A proven history of quality and reliability
If a specialized or trending ingredient is part of your formula, lead times may be longer. We don’t compromise or substitute. We ensure you get exactly what your label claims.
Third-Party Testing Ensures Potency and Safety
After ingredients arrive, they’re not immediately used in production. Every lot undergoes third-party testing to confirm:
Potency: Is the active compound present at the correct strength?
Purity: Is it free from heavy metals, microbes, and other contaminants?
Identity: Is it exactly what it’s supposed to be—no substitutions, no surprises?
This testing protects your product, your brand, and your end consumer. It takes time, but skipping it leads to bigger problems. We don’t take that risk.
Packaging Procurement Impacts Timelines Too
Ingredient delays aren’t the only factor that slows production. Packaging sourcing can be just as complex.
Custom packaging or specialty materials may carry extended lead times, especially when sourced globally.
Market demand, supply chain disruptions, and logistics can all impact availability.
If one component is delayed (bottle, label, cap) production cannot begin.
Planning for packaging early is critical. At Factory6, we guide brands through the packaging process to minimize delays and align expectations.
One major component we stress to our clients is getting their artwork to us ASAP. We can provide the supplement fact panel, but we rely on your designers to have artwork for your labels. To avoid delays, coordinate with your sales rep early and download dielines HERE so we can keep things running smoothly.
Why You’re Not in Production Yet
It’s common to wonder why your product hasn’t reached the production line. Here’s the reality: manufacturing is usually the shortest part of the process.
The real work—and the real time—is spent:
Sourcing and verifying ingredients and packaging
Testing for quality, safety, and compliance
Coordinating logistics and aligning materials
If you’re still in pre-production, it’s because we’re ensuring everything is right, ready, and verified. We don’t rush to the finish line. We take the time to get it right the first time.
Why It Matters for Your Brand
Cutting corners during sourcing might speed things up, but it leads to inconsistent products, compliance issues, and consumer distrust. That’s not a risk we take, and it’s not a risk we want our clients to take.
At Factory6, sourcing is the foundation of product success. It’s how we deliver:
Consistent, high-performing supplements
Compliance with FDA and global regulatory standards
Products that meet label claims and consumer expectations
Quality starts long before production, and we aim to deliver on each part of the process.
Factory6: We Build Superior Products
We’ve earned our reputation by doing things the right way. Our clients trust us because we don’t cut corners—we build better products.
When you work with Factory6, you get:
Premium ingredients from vetted, verified suppliers
Packaging solutions aligned with your goals and timelines
Full transparency around quality, third-party testing, and materials
Yes, sourcing takes time because quality takes time. And that’s what your brand deserves.
Ready to create a supplement that delivers on every level?
