Uncoppered chlorophyll is a phrase a lot of our gym members ask about once they start reading the back of their liquid chlorophyll bottle, so here is the plain English version.

What uncoppered chlorophyll means

The chlorophyll in leafy greens has a magnesium atom at its centre and a fatty tail that stops it mixing with water. To make a drinkable liquid, manufacturers convert it into chlorophyllin, which dissolves in water. Most brands also swap the magnesium for copper, because copper holds the bright green colour far better on the shelf. That copper form is sodium copper chlorophyllin.

Uncoppered chlorophyll, usually listed as sodium magnesium chlorophyllin, skips the copper swap and keeps magnesium at the centre, like the chlorophyll in a plant.

Why some people choose it

Mostly preference. Some people would rather not add copper on top of a multivitamin. Others like an ingredient that stays closer to the plant form. Copper chlorophyllin has a long record of use, so this is a choice rather than a warning.

Propel Health Australia has a good explainer on copper chlorophyllin vs magnesium chlorophyllin with a side by side table if you want the detail.

How to read the label in ten seconds

• Sodium copper chlorophyllin or chlorophyllin copper complex: the copper form.
• Sodium magnesium chlorophyllin or “uncoppered”: the magnesium form.
• No milligrams per serve printed: hard to compare value, so ask the brand.
• Preservatives or mint flavour: neither is good or bad, but you should know.

Where it fits in an active week

As an exercise physiologist I care far more about the basics: protein spread across the day, enough carbohydrate for the work you do, and enough water. A teaspoon of liquid chlorophyll in a big glass of water is a simple daily green habit, and for a lot of people the bigger win is that it gets another glass of water into the day. If you are sorting out your fuelling, start with what to eat before training.

If you want an uncoppered option, you can buy liquid chlorophyll from Propel Health Australia. Theirs is sodium magnesium chlorophyllin, unflavoured, with no preservatives or additives, and 100 mg of chlorophyllin per 5 mL teaspoon.

Uncoppered chlorophyll: quick answers

Does uncoppered chlorophyll taste different?

Taste depends more on flavouring than on the copper. Unflavoured versions taste mildly grassy in water.

Does it still stain?

Yes. Any chlorophyllin is a strong pigment. Wipe spills and use a straw if you are fussy about your teeth.

Browse all our nutrition guides for more.

Written by Grant Jenkins, Accredited Exercise Physiologist at PropelFit, Samford. General information only, not individual advice. Check with your GP before starting a new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, take medication or have a medical condition.