In short
USANA Usanimals is a chewable multivitamin, mineral and antioxidant supplement for children ages 2-12. USANA's science resource says it provides vitamins A, C, D, E and K, a B-vitamin complex, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium and zinc, plus an Antioxidant Phytonutrient Complex made with fruit powders. Each tablet is stamped with a monkey, dolphin, elephant or tiger, has a wild berry flavor, and is made without artificial flavors or sweeteners.
Why USANA stresses early nutrition
USANA's page notes that, pound for pound, children need more nutrition than adults, and that the immune system, bones and especially the brain are developing quickly. Studies cited there show most children do not get the nutrients they need from diet: fewer than 25 percent eat the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and zinc, vitamin B6, magnesium, calcium and vitamins C and D are often short. For picky eaters, or parents who want to fill gaps, Usanimals is USANA's answer.
Key nutrients USANA highlights
- Vitamins — vitamin A as beta-carotene, B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, biotin, folate, B12), and vitamins C, D, E and K, linked to eyes and skin, energy metabolism, immune function, bones and antioxidant protection;
- Minerals — calcium (from milk calcium), iodine, iron, magnesium and zinc, plus selenium, copper, manganese, chromium and molybdenum; USANA notes calcium with vitamin D helps the healthy development of strong bones and teeth, magnesium and zinc are each cofactors for more than 300 enzymes, iron helps hemoglobin carry oxygen, and iodine supports the thyroid;
- Antioxidant Phytonutrient Complex — made with fruit powders to provide cellular protection;
- Choline — USANA says B vitamins plus choline help support healthy brain development and function.
Daily use
- Directions: children 24-47 months chew one tablet per day; children four years and older chew two tablets per day, preferably with a meal;
- Ideal for: children ages 2-12;
- Format: chewable tablets stamped with a monkey, dolphin, elephant or tiger, wild berry flavor;
- Sweeteners: fructose, evaporated cane syrup, natural wild berry syrup, xylitol and stevia; less than one gram of sugar (about 3 calories) per tablet.
Safety notes
- Choking hazard — not for infants or toddlers younger than 2;
- Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6: keep out of reach of children, and call a doctor or poison control center immediately after an accidental overdose;
- The bottle has a child-proof cap;
- Supplements do not replace a balanced diet; if a child has a medical condition or takes medication, talk with a doctor first;
- Product names, formulas and sizes can differ by country; follow the label for your market.
Official resources
This guide is based on USANA's science resource (Ask The Scientists). *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
