GummyTalk Forum

Hey folks, I was at Costco yesterday and saw their Kirkland brand NAC supplements on sale for like half the price of what I usually pay at the health food store. I take these for my grandkids when they get sniffly, but now I'm worried - does the lower price mean they're cutting corners? Don't want to give the little ones something subpar. Anyone have experience with store-brand NAC?

Great question Mike! NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is a stable molecule, so manufacturing quality matters but isn't as finicky as some supplements. Costco's Kirkland supplements are actually manufactured by reputable companies - often the same ones making premium brands. The price difference likely comes from bulk purchasing power and minimal marketing costs, not lower quality. Check the label: it should list 600mg or 1000mg per serving with minimal fillers. The bioavailability should be identical if it's pure NAC.

lol BioBob coming in with the science lesson! Mike, I've tried like 5 different NAC brands including the Costco ones. Honestly? The Kirkland ones taste exactly the same as the expensive stuff - that slightly sulfur-y aftertaste that makes you wanna chase it with juice. If they were cutting quality, you'd probably taste more fillers or chalkiness. For the price, I'd say it's a total steal. Just make sure your grandkids take it with food so their tummies are okay!

Thanks both! Bob, I checked the bottle and it says 600mg with cellulose and stearic acid - that normal? Tom, good call on the food tip, my grandson is picky about textures. Maybe I'll buy one bottle to test before stocking up. Appreciate the help - this forum saves me so much guesswork!

Mike, cellulose and stearic acid are standard excipients used in most supplements as flow agents - completely normal and safe. The key is the NAC itself. Since Costco has rigorous quality standards and third-party testing for their Kirkland line, I'd feel confident. The sale price is likely just Costco's business model: low margins, high volume. Smart move testing one bottle first though - always good to check individual tolerance!