1. Prioritize Species

Choose certified Cordyceps militaris over wild O. sinensis.

C. militaris is sustainably cultivated with guaranteed, consistent potency, unlike the variable and highly-faked wild variant.

2. Demand Potency Data

Only buy if the product details include the Cordycepin concentration (e.g., 0.5% or higher).

Cordycepin is the key active compound. If the seller can't provide this data, the product's quality is unverified.

3. Verify Cultivation

Look for products explicitly grown in a controlled lab environment on a vegetarian substrate.

This ensures purity, prevents environmental contamination, and confirms it's a genuine cultivated product, not a fake.

4. Check Certifications

Confirm the seller has relevant Indian certifications like FSSAI and industry-standard ones like GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) or ISO.

These seals indicate the company follows strict quality and safety protocols.

5. Examine Pricing

Be wary of prices that seem "too good to be true." Authentic, lab-grade C. militaris will be priced fairly, reflecting cultivation costs.

Extremely low prices are a major red flag for adulteration or very low potency.

6. Scrutinize Reviews

Read reviews for consistent comments on efficacy and transparency. Look for evidence of long-term customer satisfaction.

Social proof from informed buyers is a good indicator of a trustworthy brand.

7. Confirm Packaging

Authentic products should be sealed and clearly labeled with the product's name, batch number, expiry date, and the manufacturer's contact information (Indian address).

Professional, detailed packaging is a sign of a legitimate operation.