Creatine supplements face scrutiny over efficacy and purity

Experts are highlighting the differences in efficacy and composition between various creatine supplement formats. While creatine monohydrate in powder form has robust scientific backing for improving strength, muscle mass, and cognitive health, newer formats like gummies and mixed-ingredient products face scrutiny regarding stability and purity.

Dr. Matías Monsalves from Universidad Andrés Bello notes that the popularity of creatine gummies is largely driven by media trends rather than scientific evidence. He warns that creatine can degrade into creatinine in aqueous environments, potentially reducing its effectiveness. An independent analysis in the United States found that half of the tested gummy brands had reduced or absent creatine levels.

In the retail sector, food technologist Mario Sánchez analyzed a creatine product from Mercadona, noting that it lacks high-quality seals like Creapure. The product, manufactured by Ynsadiet, contains a blend of creatine monohydrate, creatine phosphate, phosphorus, and calcium. Experts suggest these mixtures may be designed to reduce costs rather than enhance performance, as creatine phosphate lacks the same clinical support as pure monohydrate.