NOW Foods Red Yeast Rice Extract Tablets Review

NOW Red Yeast Rice Extract Tablets are sold as a 1200 mg red yeast rice tablet, with 60 tablets listed at $25.99 and a 120 tablet size listed at $49.99. The page describes red yeast rice as having been used by Asian traditional herbalists since approximately 800 A.D. It is produced by fermenting red yeast (Monascus purpureus) with white rice. In cooking, red yeast rice is commonly used to enhance the color and flavor of foods, and the page gives Peking duck as an example of the coloration and flavor it imparts. NOW states that its Red Yeast Rice is carefully produced to avoid the presence of citrinin, an unwanted by-product of the fermentation process. The product color is listed as red with speckles, and the page notes that natural color variation may occur. Each tablet supplies a Red Yeast Rice Extract Blend of 1.2 g (1,200 mg), made from maltodextrin and red yeast rice extract, and also 150 mg of calcium from calcium carbonate, with less than 1 g total carbohydrate per serving. The Daily Value for the red yeast rice blend is not established. Suggested usage is to take 1 tablet 1 to 2 times daily, preferably with food, and to store in a cool, dry place after opening. The caution section says not to use the product if pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding, because it may harm the fetus. It is for adults only. Consult a physician if taking medication, especially meds, or if you have a medical condition including a history of a med intolerance or liver disease. Keep out of reach of children, and if muscle complaints occur, discontinue use and consult a physician. The tablets are listed as non-GMO, vegan, halal, kosher (Triangle K), gluten free, and made without dairy, eggs, nuts and soy. The label states the product is not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nut or sesame ingredients, though it is produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens. The page lists an Intertek GMP Supplement Certification and a 2014 Vitamin Retailer Magazine Vity Award. The company states that the product is made and quality tested in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, and that the company is family owned since 1968. The bottle is made from 100% PCR post-consumer recycled resin. Free shipping applies to orders over $50 in the 48 States and D.C.