Sourcing directly from a factory can reduce costs by 10-20% compared with traders, but only if the supplier is qualified properly. Here is our checklist for a bulk order of calcium ingredients from China.

1. Qualify the supplier

Ask for FSSC 22000 or ISO 22000, the SC production licence, Kosher/Halal certificates and a video audit of the plant.

2. Test samples

Request free samples with the CoA and test them in your own lab and formula.

3. Agree the specification

Confirm the standard (GB, USP, FCC, EU), particle size, packaging and labelling.

4. Shipping

From Yantai or Qingdao, a 20 ft container holds about 18-20 MT. Transit to Europe is about 25-35 days.