Is women's multi Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a supplement like women's multi is Kosher, we must look beyond the vitamin content and examine the delivery system—the gummy base. The primary ingredients, glucose syrup and sugar, are derived from plants (corn or beets) and are generally considered Kosher. Similarly, water, citric acid, and lactic acid pose no issues.

The issue arises with the texture agents. The ingredient list specifies gelatin. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. If the gelatin is derived from pork, it is not Kosher. If it is derived from non-Kosher slaughtered beef, it is also not Kosher. Even if the gelatin were from a Kosher source, it requires a specific Kosher certification to be used in a Kosher product, which is often not present in standard vitamins.

Furthermore, the blend of oils includes beeswax. While bees are insects, the honey and wax they produce are subject to debate among Kosher authorities. Most modern Orthodox authorities accept beeswax as Kosher, but strict Sephardic customs may avoid it. Without a reliable OU or Kof-K symbol on the bottle, you cannot assume the source of these ingredients is compliant.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, women's multi gummies are often viewed as confectionery rather than a strict health supplement. The base of glucose syrup and sugar contributes a significant amount of simple carbohydrates. While this makes the vitamin palatable, it adds empty calories to your daily intake.

The fat content is minimal, derived mostly from the coconut and/or palm oils used to suspend the vitamins. However, the high sugar content means these gummies should be counted toward your daily sugar limit, especially if you are monitoring glycemic load or trying to manage weight. They fit into a healthy diet only when the sugar intake is otherwise restricted.