Plainlabel Vitamin D2 1,000 IU
Plainlabel Nutrition · Demo
- Primary ingredient
- Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol)
- Per serving
- 25 mcg (1,000 IU) vitamin D
- Servings
- 120
- Format
- Tablets
- Price
- Unavailable
- Per serving cost
- $0.08
Not verified
Vitamin D comparison
Vitamin D2 vs Vitamin D3
Sources, vegan status, how well each raises vitamin D levels, and how to read the label.
Quick answer
Both forms raise vitamin D levels. In a 2012 meta-analysis of randomized trials, D3 raised blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D more effectively than D2, especially with large, infrequent doses. D2 is vegan by source; most D3 comes from lanolin, though vegan D3 from lichen is available. Labels list micrograms — 25 mcg = 1,000 IU.
| Compare | D2 | D3 |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical name | Ergocalciferol | Cholecalciferol |
| Typical source | UV-exposed yeast or fungi | Lanolin (sheep’s wool); lichen for vegan |
| Vegan | Yes (check capsule) | Only if from lichen |
| Raising blood 25(OH)DPublished research | Effective | More effective in meta-analysis |
| Common in | Some prescriptions, fortified foods | Most over-the-counter supplements |
| Label units | mcg (IU optional) | mcg (IU optional) |
| Cost per 1,000 IU (demo)SuppScout calculationBased on fictional demonstration listings | No priced products yet | $0.03–$0.09 (demo) |
Rows marked with a source type show where the information comes from. See how SuppScout compares.
Who might look at each
Vitamin D2
- People who need a vegan product and prefer D2
Vitamin D3
- People comparing the form with more comparative research
These describe common reasons people consider each option — not a recommendation. There’s no universal winner.
Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3, explained
Vitamin D2
The fungal/yeast form of vitamin D. D2 overview.
Vitamin D3
The form the skin makes from sunlight. D3 overview.
Key differences
- D3 raised blood levels more in pooled trials.
- D2 is vegan by default; D3 usually isn’t.
- D3 dominates over-the-counter products.
Similarities
- Both raise vitamin D status.
- Same RDA and upper limit apply.
- Same label units.
Published research
Research overview
Tripkovic et al. (2012) pooled randomized trials and found D3 more efficacious at raising serum 25(OH)D than D2, with the difference most apparent for bolus doses. With daily dosing the difference was smaller. The NIH notes both forms are well absorbed.[1][2]
How to read product labels
- Convert units: mcg × 40 = IU.
- Look for the source (lanolin vs lichen) if vegan status matters.
- Add up vitamin D across all products you take.
Products containing each
Vitamin D2
Vitamin D3
Bright Daily Vitamin D3 Gummies
Bright Daily · Demo
- Primary ingredient
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
- Per serving
- 25 mcg (1,000 IU) vitamin D
- Servings
- 30
- Format
- Gummies
- Price
- Not available
- Per serving cost
- —
Not verified
Northfield Labs Vitamin D3 1,000 IU
Northfield Labs · Demo
- Primary ingredient
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
- Per serving
- 25 mcg (1,000 IU) vitamin D
- Servings
- 365
- Format
- Softgels
- Price
- $11.99*
- Per serving cost
- $0.03
Not verified
Verdana Botanicals Vegan D3 2,000 IU
Verdana Botanicals · Demo
- Primary ingredient
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
- Per serving
- 50 mcg (2,000 IU) vitamin D
- Servings
- 90
- Format
- Capsules
- Price
- $16.99*
- Per serving cost
- $0.19
Not verified
Product vs product
Lanolin D3 vs vegan lichen D3 →SuppScout may earn a commission when you purchase through certain links. This does not affect how products are compared. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1,000 IU the same as 25 mcg?
Yes. 1 mcg of vitamin D = 40 IU.
References
- Tripkovic L, Lambert H, Hart K, et al. (2012). Comparison of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 supplementation in raising serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 95(6). doi:10.3945/ajcn.111.031070Meta-analysis
- Vitamin D: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.govGovernment
SuppScout links to primary and authoritative sources wherever possible. See our editorial policy for how sources are selected and how corrections are handled.
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Talk to a healthcare professional before starting a supplement, especially if you have a medical condition, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.