From time to time, a client may notice that a capsule, tablet or powder looks slightly different from a previous batch. The shade may be a little darker, greener, lighter or more beige than before. This can understandably raise questions.

In most cases, this type of variation is completely normal when working with natural ingredients.

Many supplement formulas contain botanical powders, plant extracts, algae, or minerals sourced from agricultural crops. Unlike synthetic materials, plants are influenced by their growing environment. Season, soil conditions, climate, sunlight exposure and harvest timing can all affect the natural pigment of a raw material. As a result, two batches of the same herb or algae can vary slightly in colour while still meeting the same quality and compositional specification.

For example, green botanicals such as seaweed or alfalfa may range from a lighter olive shade to a deeper green depending on harvest conditions. Brown plant extracts can appear beige in one batch and a richer brown in another. These are natural characteristics of plant-based materials rather than signs of inconsistency.

In blended formulas, small shifts in colour can also become more noticeable. A formula may contain both darker botanical ingredients and lighter minerals or excipients. If one component appears slightly lighter or darker in a particular raw material batch, the overall blend can look different - especially when filled into clear capsules where the contents are fully visible.

Moisture levels can also play a part. Some natural ingredients are mildly hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb small amounts of ambient moisture within acceptable limits. Even when fully within specification, this can subtly deepen the appearance of a powder over time. Similarly, natural plant compounds may oxidise slightly when exposed to air, which can alter shade without affecting safety, stability or efficacy.

It’s important to stress that a change in colour does not mean the formula has changed, that potency has reduced, or that the product has failed testing. All Nutribl products are manufactured to defined specifications and are quality checked before release.

Production is carried out in audited UK facilities operating under BRC-certified quality systems. Raw materials are approved and tested to ensure our products meet microbiological, compositional and safety requirements before dispatch. Each batch is traceable and released only once it conforms to the agreed specification.

Natural variation is simply part of working with plant-based materials. It reflects real agricultural sourcing rather than artificial colour standardisation. While visual differences may occur from batch to batch, the quality, safety and performance of the product remain consistent.

If you ever receive a customer query regarding colour, our technical team is happy to review the specific batch and provide supporting documentation for reassurance.