I’m an NYC-based Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with over 7 years of experience. I have a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Science from New York University.
My food philosophy is simple and inclusive – eat real food, listen to our bodies, and be kind to ourselves. After seeing firsthand how a lack of proper nutrition can lead to chronic disease, I believe food is the first line of defense for a healthy, active life. I’m all about making wellness approachable, simple, effective, and, yes, even delicious.
I’ve been featured in Healthline, HuffPost, Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping and more. I have also partnered with hundreds of clients to transform their health, one meal at a time. You can find out more about me at https://www.instagram.com/mpmnutrition/?hl=en
Disclosure: Please note – I am a paid partner of IM8 Health. However, my opinions and recommendations are based on my professional expertise and are not influenced by any financial incentives. I only partner & recommend products I truly believe in and that align with my commitment to quality, science, and better health.
You might be thinking—do I really need a greens (or reds) powder?
I’ll be honest: I’m usually the last person to recommend a supplement before you’ve nailed down the basics of your diet.
But let’s face it—life gets busy. Even our best intentions don’t always lead to a daily serving of greens, reds, or anything that vaguely resembles a vegetable. And that’s where a smart powder can step in as a form of nutritional insurance.
They are a safety net that helps us stay on track and supplements (not replaces!) our diet. Plus, from working with so many clients, I know that people are reluctant to take a million things. That’s why I am looking for an all-in-one option suitable for those who get pill fatigue!
With so many options on the market, I wanted to cut through the hype and see which powders actually deliver. So, I tested four of today’s most talked-about formulas: Athletic Greens (AG1), Bloom, Huel and IM8.
The Powders I Picked (and How I Tested Them)
There are hundreds of greens and reds powders on the market, all with different ingredients, formulations, and scientific claims. It’s no wonder most people feel overwhelmed when trying to pick one! Add in endless marketing and social media hype, and it becomes even harder to separate fact from fiction. My goal? To cut through the noise and figure out which ones are actually worth your money.
While I would love to spend weeks playing scientist and testing all greens powders on the market, I do have a full-time job. So, I narrowed my testing down to four of the most widely recognized and frequently recommended powders:
- AG1 (Athletic Greens) – The industry staple. With massive influencer backing (think Andrew Huberman and professional athletes), AG1 is often considered the gold standard of greens powders.
- Bloom – The viral TikTok favorite. Known for its fruity flavors and aesthetic packaging, Bloom has exploded in popularity, particularly among Gen Z.
- IM8 – The science-backed newcomer. Co-founded by David Beckham, with an advisory board featuring top medical experts from NASA, Cedars-Sinai, and the Mayo Clinic, IM8 takes a research-driven approach.
- Huel – Famous for its meal replacement drinks filled with plant-based ingredients, Huel now also offers a daily greens powder—and that’s what I’m going to evaluate!
These are the brands you’re most likely to come across—whether from social media, online searches, or recommendations from friends.
The Ground Rules
To keep things as scientifically sound as possible, I followed strict criteria when selecting and evaluating each powder:
No “kitchen sink” formulas
If a supplement tried to do too much (think: protein-preworkout-greens hybrids), it got an automatic no. I wanted to test products that were truly focused on greens and reds for optimal nutrition.
Comprehensive formulations only
Single-ingredient supplements didn't make the cut. I prioritized formulas that offered a well-rounded nutrient profile, backed by legitimate research.
Just plain water
No mixing these into fancy smoothie bowls to hide any unpleasant surprises. I wanted to get the 'real' taste of these products, without any other mixes.
The Testing Process
To ensure each supplement got a fair evaluation, here’s the process I used:
- I added each supplement to the same amount of water (~10 oz) and mixed it with a glass straw. I wanted to evaluate ease of use—because if something is difficult to use, I’m (like most people) unlikely to use it consistently.
- I examined the taste and paid attention to things like texture and smell.
- I reviewed the ingredients, scientific claims, certifications, and research documents for each supplement.
- I even enlisted my brutally honest husband to try each supplement.
My Non-Negotiables in Greens and Reds Supplements
In a market flooded with “premium” promises, not all formulas are created equal. Celebrity endorsements can be fun—but PhD-backed advisory boards and legitimate research matter more.
The Must-Have Checklist
- Clinical dosing (no pixie dust)
- Third-party testing (non-negotiable)
- Bioavailable, research-supported ingredients
- Transparent labeling (no hidden blends)
- No synthetic fillers
- Actually tastes enjoyable (no "sweetened yard clippings")
And perhaps the biggest deal-breaker of them all: taste. Because if you can’t choke it down, it’ll become an expensive paperweight in the pantry. I’m glad to report that my top pick from a nutrition standpoint was also my taste panel’s favorite in terms of flavor!
Finally, I compared each formula’s price-per-serving (some brands are sneaky with their serving sizes) and assessed real-world bioavailability. Let’s jump into it—and feel free to leave a comment if you’ve tried any of these brands!
- Pro’s:
- 92 premium, clinically-dosed ingredients
- Formulated by top scientists (NASA, Mayo Clinic, Cedars-Sinai)
- Contains clinically studied ingredients backed by third-party research
- Vegan, gluten free, dairy-free
- Delicious berry and açai flavor
- All-natural, nothing synthetic
- Complete transparency in dosing (no proprietary blends)
- Includes CoQ10 & MSM at clinical doses
- Comprehensive probiotic blend (10 Billion CFU)
- Enhanced bioavailability
- Made in the USA in a FDA-registered facility
- Free shipping
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Con’s:
- Premium pricing ($79)
- Only available online
- High demand may occasionally impact availability
- Thin powder
Just a note: While IM8 was my favorite pick and the highest-scoring powder I tried, do read through the detailed reviews to find what might be best for you and your needs!
★ Why IM8 is My Top Pick
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDKkRELRDIJ/
Tastes Amazing
Packed with Probiotics
Clinically Dosed Ingredients
★ What I Love
IM8 actually tastes and smells good. The berry and açaí flavor is smooth, refreshing, and far more enjoyable than the usual “blended lawn clippings” situation. It dissolves easily, which is key for usability! It has a very light, almost effervescent taste that I really enjoyed. It would also taste great blended in a smoothie. While taste isn’t always my top priority, it definitely matters when committing to a daily habit. And yes, the taste panel agreed with me—I can even get Elliot (my husband) to happily drink this.
Beyond the flavor, I would feel very confident recommending this to my clients or adding it into my own routine. If you’re looking for an easy, science-backed way to support your gut, immunity, and overall health, IM8 is a fantastic daily ritual.
IM8 is co-founded by David Beckham (which adds a layer of intrigue), but he also has an incredibly solid team of scientists behind the product—including top doctors at Cedars-Sinai (and as a previous clinical dietitian at Mount Sinai, I totally respect this), NASA scientists, and Yale researchers. This level of scientific backing and third-party research is rare for a supplement, making me confident that the formulation is as optimized as possible. I also appreciate that they chose many branded ingredients (like VegD3 and FloraSMART) that offer enhanced efficacy.
★ What Could Be Better
IM8 is packed with premium, clinically dosed ingredients, but this quality comes at a premium price—$79 per container (about a month’s supply). That said, when compared to buying multiple separate supplements (probiotics, greens, antioxidants, etc.), it ends up being more affordable than buying all the components separately!
It’s a very fine powder, which mixes easily but can sometimes be a bit messy—I found myself wiping stray powder off my countertops occasionally.
When it comes to dosages, some individuals might personally want more vitamin b12, depending on their specific needs. I have clients who sometimes require a higher dose, meaning they may still need an additional supplement (note: AG1 also has lower B12 content—even lower).
Another thing to note: It’s only available online, and due to high demand, it occasionally sells out. If you plan on making it a daily habit, I’d recommend subscribing to avoid potential stock issues.
Ingredient Breakdown
As a dietitian, knowing my way around an ingredient label is second nature—and IM8 definitely impressed me! IM8 Daily Ultimate Essentials is packed with 92 premium ingredients carefully formulated to target eight key areas of health. Here’s a closer look at some standout components:
- CoQ10 (100 mg): Supports cellular energy production and heart health with a clinically effective dose that’s 20% higher than many other supplements.
- MSM (1000 mg): Promotes joint health and muscle recovery with anti-inflammatory benefits for active lifestyles.
- Vitamin D3 (150% DV): Essential for bone health, immune function, and hormone regulation—commonly deficient in many diets.
- B-Vitamins Complex (B6, B12, Folate – 150% DV): Provides sustained energy and supports brain health, featuring bioavailable methylated forms for optimal absorption.
- Zinc (136% DV) and Magnesium (15125% DV): Crucial for immune support, sleep quality, and muscle recovery, provided in highly bioavailable forms.
- Superfood and Adaptogen Blend: A powerful combination of green tea, açaí, pomegranate, and sea moss offers antioxidant protection, helps reduce inflammation, and boosts metabolism—ingredients providing benefits often missing from our daily diets.
- Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Postbiotics: Includes clinically validated strains like Bacillus coagulans BC99®™ and Bacillus subtilis DE111®™. I love the balanced combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics for optimal gut health.
- Electrolyte Hydration Blend: Includes magnesium to support balanced hydration, without added sugars or fillers.
One thing that impressed me: despite its nutrient density, each serving is remarkably efficient:
- Low-calorie (perfect for fasting windows)
- Minimal carbs
- No artificial sweeteners
- No fillers or synthetic additives
Equally important is what’s not in it—no proprietary blends hiding weak dosages, no artificial preservatives, and no refrigeration needed, thanks to its shelf-stable probiotic technology.
- Pro’s:
- Convenient all-in-one formula
- Wide variety of ingredients
- Diverse health benefits
- Endorsed by celebrities and athletes
- Vegan, gluten free, dairy-free
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Tastes decent for a greens powder (think pineapple vibes)
- Mixes well, no clumps
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Con’s:
- Doesn’t disclose exact dosages (proprietary blends)
- Uses synthetic vitamins instead of bioavailable forms
- Probiotic count is unclear
- Expensive at $99/month
- The vitamin D+K is separate - meaning you have another pill to take
- Contains stevia, which some people dislike
- Needs to be refrigerated
★ What I Love
It’s no wonder AG1 has been dominating the greens space for a decade: it’s an impressive product and there has been a lot of investment in making sure the experience (think the website and Welcome Kit) give you the best possible first impression.
So, AG1 has a lot going for it, and if you’re looking for a solid greens powder and don’t mind paying a premium, here’s what I liked.
First off, it’s a good all-in-one formula, combining greens, adaptogens, probiotics, and vitamins into a single scoop (however, not in clinically recommended doses, we will get into that!). It also includes spirulina, chlorella, and wheatgrass—all great sources of phytonutrients and antioxidants that most of us are definitely not consuming daily. It also includes prebiotics and probiotics for gut health, which most of us could use a boost on!
Taste-wise, most greens powders are a bit yuck, but AG1 has a smooth, slightly tropical flavor with a hint of vanilla and pineapple. I like that it’s subtly sweet vs. overpowering it (see Bloom later).It’s one of the more drinkable options out there (especially compared to the ultra-earthy formulas). However, it did have a bit of an aftertaste which led to it not passing the Elliot taste test.
★ What Could Be Better
There is a lot of hype around AG1 with endorsements from professional athletes, fitness coaches, and influencers like Andrew Huberman, which often leads to the question of how much of the premium price (US$99 per month) is worth it and how much of it is hype.
There are other cons that can’t be ignored. The vitamins and minerals are from synthetic versions rather than naturally derived or bioavailable forms. For example, the vitamin B12 is cyanocobalamin (less absorbable than methylcobalamin especially for 20-40% of the population who have MTHFR gene mutations).
Additionally – if you look at dosages of many of the vitamins / minerals, they provide some, but probably not enough to actually move the needle.
The biggest red flag for me is that AG1 hides its ingredient dosages behind proprietary blends. That means you don’t actually know how much of each nutrient you’re getting. They list all the ingredients,but the label doesn’t break down the exact amounts, making it impossible to assess if you’re getting clinically effective doses. As a dietitian, I hear so often how people are lacking trust in the supplement industry, so any brand that gatekeeps any information doesn’t sit well with me.
AG1 is still a very good greens powder—it’s convenient, tastes good, and includes a mix of greens, probiotics, and adaptogens. But in my opinion, these dosages are not worth the price.
- Pro’s
- Most variety of flavors
- Focuses on supporting digestion and bloating.
- Vegan, gluten free, dairy-free
- Reasonably priced
- Includes adaptogens
- Available offline at major retailers
- Contains probiotics and digestive enzymes
- Cons:
- Little ingredient transparency
- Clumpy & thick, doesn’t mix well
- No vitamins or minerals listed
- Contains stevia, which some people dislike
If AG1 is the sleek, science-backed option and IM8 is the powerhouse of clinical research, then Bloom is the fun, influencer-approved wellness pick—one that looks good on your kitchen counter but doesn’t quite deliver where it counts.
It’s hard to scroll through TikTok without seeing someone raving about Bloom’s greens powder. The amount of text messages and DMs I’ve gotten about this is crazy! With its pastel packaging, fruity flavors, and an emphasis on “beating the bloat,” it’s a social media darling that’s won over a massive fanbase. It’s also easily available in major retailers like Target and Amazon, making it one of the most accessible greens powders on the market.
But when I dug deeper into the ingredients, transparency, and effectiveness, Bloom started to feel more like a fun wellness drink than a serious nutritional supplement.
★ What I Love
It’s hard to scroll through TikTok without seeing someone raving about Bloom’s greens powder. With its pastel packaging, fruity flavors, and an emphasis on “beating the bloat,” they certainly nailed the branding (however, I am always weary of buzz word branding like beating the bloat – as a RD I know that “beating the bloat” is not one size fits all). I also love that it’s easily available in major retailers like Target and Amazon, making it one of the most accessible greens powders on the market.
Formula-wise, I do like their usage of a bunch of different superfoods that are not normally included in our diets. Most notably grass, spirulina, and organic flaxseed. I also like that they include adaptogens like ashwaganda, as most of us could use some help with managing stress.
If you’re a fan of a sweeter greens powder, then you will enjoy this formula! The variety of flavors (think Mango and Kiwi) taste fruity and fresh, but a bit too sweet for my liking. It’s also much more affordable than others, at just US$40 for 30 servings.
★ What Could Be Better
Bloom has its shortcomings, especially in the transparency department. First off, most greens powders clearly outline their vitamin and mineral content, but Bloom doesn’t. Without this information, it’s hard to tell how much actual nutrition you’re getting. And while Bloom does contain a wide variety of greens, the dosages aren’t listed—meaning there’s no way to know if you’re getting clinically effective amounts or just trace amounts for label appeal. From what I can see, they state on their website that they are 3rd party tested, but they are missing the NSF seal or any real information about the testing they are doing.
While the taste might appeal to some, it was a tad too sweet for me, and the powder was incredibly thick and annoying to mix. You would need to whip out an electric whisk to blend it all together in a way that was drinkable.
All in all, it feels more like a wellness drink rather than a supplement, and it doesn’t compare to IM8’s research-backed formulation or AG1’s more established ingredient profile.
- Pros:
- Well-known brand in meal replacements, expanding into greens powders
- Contains 91 ingredients, including mushrooms, adaptogens, and greens
- Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free
- More affordable than other premium brands ($55/month)
- Cons:
- No independent third-party clinical trials
- Uses proprietary blends, meaning ingredient dosages are undisclosed
- Lacks key clinically effective doses of essential nutrients
- Contains artificial sweeteners, which may not suit all preferences
- Thicker, chalkier texture compared to IM8
What I Love
Huel has been a household name in meal replacements, and their foray into greens powders makes sense. Their formula includes 91 ingredients, covering greens, adaptogens, berries, and mushrooms, which might appeal to those looking for a broad-spectrum supplement. Most of us are not consuming all of these ingredients on a daily basis and Huel provides an easy way to do it.
Taste wise – it actually surprised me that I liked it! It was a little bit like a sweet apple pie, with notes of apples and cinnamon throughout, which is a nice change from a super green option.
It’s also more affordable at $55/month, making it a budget-friendlier option.
What Could Be Better
The biggest red flag with Huel Daily Greens is the use of proprietary blends. Unlike IM8, which provides fully disclosed, clinically effective dosages, Huel does not reveal exact amounts of key nutrients, making it impossible to assess whether you’re getting meaningful amounts of beneficial ingredients. As a dietitian, I know that it’s not just about what is in a product, but also about HOW MUCH that makes something truly meaningful.
Additionally, Huel lacks any NSF certification, meaning it has not undergone the rigorous third-party testing that IM8 has for banned substances, contaminants, and ingredient accuracy. They are tested and certified by Informed Sport – but this process is a bit less rigorous than NSF certification. If you’re an athlete or someone who values ingredient transparency, this is a major consideration.
Final Verdict
Huel Daily Greens is a decent option for those who already use Huel’s meal replacements and want a greens powder to complement their routine. However, for those looking for a science-backed, clinically dosed, and third-party-tested formula, IM8 is the superior choice. IM8’s NSF Certified for Sport®, clinical trials, and transparent labeling ensure that every ingredient is included at an effective and research-backed dose—something Huel does not offer.
If you’re serious about longevity, energy, gut health, and performance, IM8 is the clear winner.
Why I Chose IM8
| #1 IM8 | #2 AG1 | #3 Huel | #4 Bloom | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Benefits | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Ingredients | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
| Taste | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
| Easy to Make | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 3.5 |
| Smell | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Texture | 5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 |
| Major Pro | 92 clinically dosed, premium ingredients Superior taste and smell Transparent labeling and NSF-certified for Sport® |
Trusted by athletes and influencers All-in-one convenience NSF-certified |
Good nutritional range Easy mixing Cost-effective |
Excellent taste with multiple flavors Popular among younger audience Affordable |
| Major Con | Premium price Online-only availability Occasionally sells out due to demand |
Expensive Proprietary blends (no dosage transparency) Contains stevia (taste polarizing) |
Proprietary blend with unclear dosages Clinical dosage uncertain Limited flavor transparency |
Less transparency on clinical doses Doesn’t mix as smoothly No third-party certifications |
| Average | 4.9 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| #1 IM8 | #2 AG1 | #3 Huel | #4 Bloom | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Benefits | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Ingredients | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
| Taste | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
| Easy to Make | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 3.5 |
| Smell | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Texture | 5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 |
| Major Pro | 92 clinically dosed, premium ingredients Superior taste and smell Transparent labeling and NSF-certified for Sport® |
Trusted by athletes and influencers All-in-one convenience NSF-certified |
Good nutritional range Easy mixing Cost-effective |
Excellent taste with multiple flavors Popular among younger audience Affordable |
| Major Con | Premium price Online-only availability Occasionally sells out due to demand |
Expensive Proprietary blends (no dosage transparency) Contains stevia (taste polarizing) |
Proprietary blend with unclear dosages Clinical dosage uncertain Limited flavor transparency |
Less transparency on clinical doses Doesn’t mix as smoothly No third-party certifications |
| Average | 4.9 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.1 |
When considering all these critical factors, IM8 consistently stands out with its remarkable quality, transparency, and commitment to science-backed doses. While other brands like AG1, Bloom, and Huel each have strengths, IM8 truly offers the most comprehensive nutritional boost—making it my top recommendation.
If you’re serious about longevity, energy, gut health, and performance, IM8 is the clear winner that provides a comprehensive solution and stands out in the crowded greens powder market.
After testing enough premium supplements to fund a small yacht, I’m so happy that I found one that checked all my boxes. First, IM8 has a wide range of high-quality, nutritious ingredients in bioavailable forms and in clinically recommended doses. Second, it supports a wide range of health benefits, from energy to digestion to immunity. And third, it actually tastes delicious and doesn’t make you dread mornings!
Now don’t get me wrong. At $79, IM8 isn’t the cheapest option out there and it still sits firmly in the premium category. But when you consider that it’s replacing what would normally be a $200+ monthly supplement stack (trust me, I did the math), while providing higher doses of key nutrients than competitors like AG1 ($99), the value becomes clear. Plus, you’re getting what might be the most sophisticated supplement formulation currently on the market – backed by a scientific advisory board that reads like a who’s who of medical research.
Remember, supplements don’t replace whole foods and a balanced diet, but if you’re looking for a great nutritional insurance policy, IM8 is a great place to go.
[Get IM8 Daily Essentials for $79]
Disclosure: Please note – I am a paid partner of IM8 health. However, my opinions and recommendations are based on my professional expertise and are not influenced by any financial incentives. I only partner & recommend products I truly believe in and that align with my commitment to quality, science, and better health.
