New findings highlight a significant public health concern in the United Kingdom, with one in five Britons failing to get sufficient levels of vitamin D. This essential nutrient, crucial for overall wellbeing, is often in short supply, especially during the darker months.
The Critical Importance of Vitamin D
The NHS advises all individuals over the age of four to consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms of vitamin D throughout autumn and winter. For children aged one to four, this recommendation extends to year-round supplementation. The reasons for this guidance are compelling and backed by a growing body of evidence.
Vitamin D plays a vital role in staving off fatigue and common colds, while also maintaining strong bones, teeth, and muscles. It can even help reduce hair loss. Notably, a 2025 study from the United States suggested that adequate vitamin D levels may slow visible signs of ageing and decrease the risk of developing dementia.
Putting Supplements to the Test
With a vast array of products on the market, choosing the right supplement can be confusing. To cut through the noise, the consumer champion Which? conducted a comprehensive scientific analysis of 30 different vitamin D varieties. Their testing ranged from Nutravita's drops costing under 1p per dose to premium gummies from Haliborange and Vitabiotics priced at 24p per dose.
The organisation's experts employed rigorous methods to evaluate each product. They scrutinised labels to assess 'bioavailability'—how well the vitamin is absorbed by the body—and measured the exact dosage per serving. The team also checked for unnecessary additives. To ensure complete accuracy, samples underwent high-performance liquid chromatography testing in a laboratory to verify that the ingredients matched precisely what was stated on the label.
It is important to note that Which? operates as a not-for-profit organisation. All the money it generates is reinvested into its mission to make life simpler, fairer, and safer for consumers.
Top-Rated Vitamin D Supplements for Every Preference
Based on their extensive testing, Which? has identified standout products across different formats. Here are their top recommendations.
Best Drops: Nutravita Vitamin D3 1000IU Drops
This option offers exceptional value, with a total cost starting from £15.99 for a 60ml bottle containing 2,000 doses. That works out at a remarkable cost of less than 1p per dose. Each serving delivers 25 micrograms of vitamin D. The drops contain coconut oil, which enhances bioavailability for excellent absorption, and they are free from unnecessary additives. The only minor drawback noted was that some testers found the included pipette a little fiddly to use.
Best Gels: Solgar Vitamin D3 1000IU Softgels
For those who prefer a capsule, these softgels scored perfectly in laboratory tests. Priced from £23.63 for 250 capsules, the cost per dose is under 11p. Each softgel provides 25 micrograms of vitamin D. The inclusion of safflower oil promotes great absorption, and the soft shell coating makes them easier to swallow than standard tablets. However, vegetarians and vegans should be aware that the ingredients contain bovine gelatine and the vitamin D3 is sourced from fish oil.
Best Spray: BetterYou Vitamin D 1000IU Daily Oral Spray
An ideal solution for anyone who struggles with pills, this oral spray is straightforward to use. A 15ml bottle, providing 100 doses, starts at £7.95, equating to less than 8p per dose. It delivers 25 micrograms per spray and absorbs directly into the bloodstream. Testers confirmed it had no unnecessary additives. The spray is flavoured with natural peppermint oil, which some may need time to get used to, but it remains a highly effective and convenient choice.
For the complete list of expert-recommended products, you can visit the dedicated guide on the Which? website at which.co.uk/vitamind.
