The supermarket chain chaired by Juan Roig has taken another step into the world of sports supplements. Mercadona has begun selling creatine in some of its stores , a dietary supplement that until now was only available in specialty shops. The product, which has a neutral flavor, is sold in a 200-gram container for eight euros, although it is not available in all of the chain's stores.
Behind this launch is Laboratorios Ynsadiet, a company based in Leganés (Madrid) with over forty years of experience in manufacturing food supplements and natural cosmetics. Ynsadiet is a regular supplier to Mercadona , producing numerous products in the Deliplus range, although this time the creatine is not branded as such, suggesting that the company is testing its market reception before permanently adding it to its product line.
Mercadona's creatine: price, format and manufacturer
The Mercadona creatine container holds 200 grams of neutral-flavored powder and includes a measuring scoop. Its fixed price of eight euros makes it an affordable option for those who want to try this supplement without breaking the bank. According to the supermarket chain, the recommended dose is one scoop per day, equivalent to 4,2 grams of product, providing 3 grams of creatine, 137 milligrams of phosphorus, and 161 milligrams of calcium. The manufacturer advises dissolving it in approximately 200 milliliters of water, milk, or plant-based beverage.
The choice of Ynsadiet is no coincidence. This Madrid-based laboratory is a leading name in natural nutrition in Spain and already manufactures other supplements for Mercadona, such as horsetail, artichoke, and collagen capsules. The company, with 400 employees, is a leader in the Community of Madrid and the third largest Spanish firm in the sector. Its four decades of experience in developing natural products have been key to Mercadona's decision to entrust them with this launch.
What is creatine and what is it used for?
Creatine is a substance that the body produces naturally in the pancreas, kidneys, and liver, and that can also be obtained through food, especially meat and fish. The Mediterranean diet provides between 0,25 and 1 gram of creatine daily , while vegetarian diets contain very little. For this reason, many people turn to supplements to increase their muscle stores and improve physical performance.
According to the 2024 report by the Scientific Committee of the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), creatine is effective in improving training and performance in short-duration, high-intensity exercises. Health claims authorized in Europe indicate that a daily intake of 3 grams of creatine contributes to improved physical performance during repeated sessions of intense exercise. Furthermore, several studies suggest that it can accelerate muscle recovery after demanding workouts by reducing muscle cell damage and inflammation.
Beyond sports, creatine has also garnered interest for its potential effects on brain health and the reduction of mental fatigue. Recent research suggests that creatine supplementation could improve short-term memory and counteract age-related muscle and bone loss, although experts emphasize that it should not replace a balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle.
Consumption recommendations and warnings
The Mercadona creatine packaging includes clear instructions: do not exceed the recommended daily dose, keep the product out of reach of children, and avoid consumption during pregnancy. The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) considers up to 3 grams of creatine per day to be safe for healthy adults , but notes that there is no evidence of toxicity within that range. However, the agency also points out that people with pre-existing kidney disease should not take this supplement, as it could worsen their condition.
The AESAN report also reminds us that food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. In the case of pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and the elderly, the use of these products is only justified if there are supporting medical reasons , since the safety assessment was carried out on adults in a normal physiological state. Therefore, before starting to take creatine, it is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist.
Criticism and debate on social media
The arrival of creatine at Mercadona has not been without controversy. On social media, some users have pointed out that the product does not contain only creatine, but also an additive, and that only 71,4% of the content is pure creatine. Criticism focuses on the price-quality ratio , as some believe there are alternatives on the market with a higher concentration of the active ingredient for a similar price. Furthermore, some experts have questioned whether the price of eight euros is high compared to other forms of creatine powder.
Dietitian-nutritionist Julio Basulto, known for his critical stance on supplements, has reiterated in several publications that creatine is not necessary for everyone. Basulto warns that up to 30% of people do not respond to creatine supplementation and that, since it is not a drug, there is no strict control by drug agencies to guarantee its purity. Therefore, he recommends purchasing quality products and not neglecting fundamental habits such as diet, exercise, and rest. The specialist also advises against its use in adolescents and emphasizes that those who rely on supplements tend to be more lenient with their other health habits.
Despite the criticism, Mercadona's launch reflects the boom in a rapidly growing market. More and more people are interested in sports supplements , and the Valencian supermarket chain has responded to this demand by offering an accessible product on its shelves. Ynsadiet's creatine is already available in some supermarkets, although it hasn't yet reached all parts of Spain. Those who want to try it can check availability at their nearest store through the company's website. In any case, experts agree that the most important thing is to maintain a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, and that supplements, including creatine, should only be used as occasional support and always under professional supervision.