Airborne Vitamins Review
Created by a school teacher over 20 years ago, Airborne has become the #1 immune support supplement brand in America. But does this popular vitamin blend actually boost your immune system, or is it just clever marketing? We’ve tested and researched Airborne’s complete product line – from effervescent tablets to gummies – to help you decide if these immune support supplements deserve a place in your wellness routine.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Overall: Airborne 1000mg Vitamin C Effervescent Tablets – Complete immune support formula with zinc and vitamin D
Best Gummies: Airborne 750mg Vitamin C Gummies – Convenient, great-tasting immune support in assorted fruit flavors
Best for Kids: Airborne Kids Gummies – 500mg vitamin C specially formulated for children 4 and older
Best Chewable: Airborne Citrus Chewable Tablets – No water needed, perfect for travel
Best with Elderberry: Airborne Elderberry + Zinc Gummies – Enhanced immune support with elderberry extract
Best Value: Airborne Gummies 2-Pack – Stock up and save on America’s #1 immune gummies
Detailed Product Comparisons
| Product | Vitamin C | Form | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effervescent Tablets | 1000mg | Fizzy drink | Zinc, Vitamin D, complete formula | $$ |
| Adult Gummies | 750mg | Chewable gummies | Antioxidants C & E | $$ |
| Kids Gummies | 500mg | Chewable gummies | Age 4+, fruit flavors | $$ |
| Chewable Tablets | 1000mg | Chewable tablets | No water needed, portable | $$ |
| Elderberry Gummies | Varies | Chewable gummies | Elderberry, Vitamin D, Zinc | $$ |
| Very Berry Effervescent | 1000mg | Fizzy drink | 13 vitamins/minerals/herbs | $$ |
| Sugar Free Effervescent | 1000mg | Fizzy drink | Zero sugar, Vitamin D & Zinc | $$ |
In-Depth Product Reviews
1. Airborne 1000mg Vitamin C Effervescent Tablets with Vitamin D & Zinc
Airborne’s flagship product delivers their most complete immune support formula in an effervescent tablet that dissolves in water. Each serving provides 1000mg of vitamin C along with 100% daily value of zinc, 1500 IU of vitamin D3, and powerful antioxidants vitamins A, C, and E.
What We Like:
- High-potency 1000mg vitamin C supports robust immune function
- Now includes 100% DV of zinc (previously 73%), essential for immune cell function
- 1500 IU vitamin D3 supports immune system and overall health
- Effervescent format enhances absorption and hydration simultaneously
- Sugar-free formula with natural and artificial sweeteners
- Zesty orange flavor makes immune support enjoyable
- Convenient for travel – just drop tablet in water anywhere
- #1 pharmacist-recommended immune support brand
What Could Be Better:
- Requires water and a few minutes for tablet to dissolve completely
- Some find the fizzy texture unpleasant
- Contains artificial flavors and sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame potassium)
- More expensive per serving than basic vitamin C supplements
- Citric acid content may be harsh on tooth enamel with frequent use
Bottom Line: Airborne’s effervescent tablets deliver comprehensive immune support in a convenient, well-absorbed format. The combination of high-dose vitamin C, optimal zinc, and vitamin D provides science-backed immune system support. While more expensive than basic supplements and requiring water, the effervescent format, complete formula, and brand reliability make this worthwhile for frequent travelers or those seeking robust immune support during cold season.
2. Airborne 750mg Vitamin C Gummies for Adults – 2 Pack
These popular gummies make immune support as easy as eating candy. With 750mg of vitamin C per three-gummy serving plus antioxidants vitamins C and E, they provide solid immune support in an assorted fruit flavor that adults and teens actually enjoy taking.
What We Like:
- 750mg vitamin C per serving delivers substantial immune support
- Gummy format eliminates need for water, perfect for on-the-go
- Assorted fruit flavors taste great, encouraging consistent daily use
- Contains powerful antioxidants vitamin E alongside vitamin C
- Selenium provides additional oxidative stress protection
- Gluten-free and suitable for most dietary restrictions
- Two-pack provides excellent value and reduces reorder frequency
- 126 gummies total offers 42-day supply for regular use
What Could Be Better:
- Requires three gummies per serving, more than some competitors
- Contains added sugars and corn syrup
- Not suitable for children under 12 due to choking risk
- Lacks zinc and vitamin D found in effervescent formula
- May stick together in warm weather or humid conditions
Bottom Line: These gummies excel in convenience and palatability, making daily immune support effortless. The 750mg vitamin C is substantial, though not as high as the effervescent tablets. While they contain added sugars and lack some nutrients from other formulas, the ease of use and pleasant taste mean you’ll actually take them consistently. Ideal for people who dislike swallowing pills or preparing fizzy drinks.
3. Airborne Kids Gummies Vitamin C – 4 Pack
Specially formulated for children ages 4 and up, these gummies deliver 500mg of vitamin C per two-gummy serving along with vitamins, minerals, and herbs including echinacea and ginger. The assorted fruit flavors make getting kids to take immune support much easier.
What We Like:
- Age-appropriate 500mg vitamin C dose for children
- Delicious assorted fruit flavors kids actually enjoy
- Easy two-gummy serving size for young children
- Contains echinacea and ginger for additional immune support
- Gluten-free formula suitable for most kids
- Four-pack provides substantial supply for families
- No fighting with kids about taking vitamins
- Developed by a teacher who understood classroom germ exposure
What Could Be Better:
- Contains sugars that contribute to daily intake
- Not suitable for children under 4 years old
- May encourage viewing vitamins as candy (parental supervision needed)
- Lower vitamin C than adult formulas (appropriate for children but not teens)
- Requires storing away from children to prevent overconsumption
Bottom Line: Airborne Kids Gummies successfully solve the challenge of getting children to take immune support supplements. The age-appropriate dosing and appealing flavors make daily supplementation simple. While sugar content and candy-like appearance require parental supervision, the convenience and compliance benefits outweigh these concerns for most families. Excellent choice for school-age children exposed to classroom germs.
4. Airborne Citrus Chewable Tablets – 116 Count
For ultimate convenience, these chewable tablets require no water and can be taken anywhere. Each four-tablet serving delivers 1000mg of vitamin C along with 13 vitamins, minerals, and herbs including echinacea and ginger in a citrus flavor.
What We Like:
- No water needed makes this most portable Airborne format
- 1000mg vitamin C matches effervescent tablet potency
- 13 vitamins, minerals, and herbs provide comprehensive support
- 116-count bottle offers excellent value and long-lasting supply
- Citrus flavor is pleasant and not overly sweet
- Perfect for travel, hiking, or situations without water access
- Gluten-free and caffeine-free formulation
- Can be taken up to three times daily for intensive immune support
What Could Be Better:
- Requires chewing four tablets per serving, which some find tedious
- Chalky texture may be off-putting compared to gummies
- Contains artificial sweeteners (sucralose)
- Some users report citrus flavor being too tart or chalky
- Large bottle may be inconvenient for carrying despite being water-free
Bottom Line: Chewable tablets offer unmatched convenience for active lifestyles and travel. The high vitamin C content and comprehensive formula match the effervescent version without requiring water. While the texture isn’t as pleasant as gummies and the serving size is larger, the portability and value make this worthwhile for frequent travelers, hikers, or anyone wanting immune support without liquid preparation.
5. Airborne Elderberry + Zinc & Vitamin C Gummies
Enhanced with black elderberry extract, these gummies combine traditional immune support with modern vitamin science. The formula includes vitamin C, vitamin D for bone and muscle health, zinc, and antioxidant vitamins C, D, and E in an elderberry flavor.
What We Like:
- Elderberry extract adds traditional immune-supporting botanical
- Vitamin D supports bone, muscle, heart health beyond just immunity
- 18% DV of zinc supports immune cell function and signaling
- Powerful antioxidant combination of vitamins C, D, and E
- Pleasant elderberry flavor appeals to most palates
- Suitable for children 4 and up as well as adults
- Two-gummy serving size is manageable for most ages
- Year-round immune support for whole family
What Could Be Better:
- Lower vitamin C content than other Airborne products
- Contains added sugars contributing to daily intake
- Premium pricing for elderberry-enhanced formula
- Some don’t enjoy elderberry flavor
- Not suitable for children under 4 due to choking risk
Bottom Line: The elderberry formula bridges traditional herbal wisdom with modern immune science. While vitamin C content is lower than other Airborne products, the addition of elderberry extract and vitamin D provides unique benefits. Ideal for families wanting comprehensive immune support with the added benefits of elderberry, though those seeking maximum vitamin C should consider the effervescent or chewable tablets instead.
6. Airborne Very Berry Effervescent Tablets
Offering the same comprehensive immune support as the orange flavor but with a very berry taste, these effervescent tablets deliver 1000mg of vitamin C, zinc, selenium, and a blend of 13 vitamins, minerals, and herbs including echinacea and ginger.
What We Like:
- Complete 1000mg vitamin C plus 13 immune-supporting nutrients
- 73% DV zinc essential for immune cell function
- Very berry flavor provides tasty alternative to citrus
- Includes echinacea and ginger from herbal tradition
- Effervescent format enhances absorption and provides hydration
- Gluten-free formulation
- 36-tablet box provides month-long supply
- Refreshing fizzy drink makes immune support enjoyable
What Could Be Better:
- Requires water and time for tablet to fully dissolve
- Contains artificial flavors and colors
- Some users find berry flavor too sweet or artificial
- Citric acid can be harsh on sensitive teeth or stomach
- More expensive than basic vitamin C supplements
Bottom Line: The very berry flavor provides welcome variety for those tired of orange-flavored supplements. The comprehensive formula matches Airborne’s original effervescent tablets, delivering science-backed immune support in a refreshing format. While it shares the same limitations as other effervescent products (requires water, contains artificial ingredients), the berry flavor and complete nutrient profile make this excellent for daily immune maintenance.
7. Airborne Adult Gummies Assorted Fruit – Single Bottle
This single 42-gummy bottle provides the same immune support as the two-pack but at a lower initial investment. Each three-gummy serving delivers 750mg of vitamin C plus antioxidants vitamins C and E, perfect for trying Airborne gummies before committing to bulk purchases.
What We Like:
- Lower price point for trying gummy format before bulk buying
- 750mg vitamin C provides substantial immune support
- Assorted fruit flavors offer variety in each bottle
- Convenient gummy format requires no preparation
- Gluten-free and suitable for most dietary needs
- Perfect size for testing tolerance and taste preference
- Pharmacist-recommended brand provides confidence
- Easy to take at home, work, or while traveling
What Could Be Better:
- Less cost-effective than two-pack for regular users
- 14-day supply means frequent reordering
- Three-gummy serving size larger than some competitors
- Contains added sugars and corn syrup
- Lacks zinc and vitamin D from other formulas
Bottom Line: The single-bottle option works well for first-time Airborne users or occasional immune support needs. While less economical than bulk purchases, it provides a risk-free way to test the gummy format and flavor before investing in larger quantities. Once you confirm you enjoy the gummies, transitioning to the two-pack offers better value for regular supplementation.
Understanding Airborne’s Immune Support Formula
Airborne was developed by a second-grade teacher who wanted better immune support while surrounded by classroom germs. Her original formula combined high-dose vitamin C with zinc, herbs like echinacea and ginger, and supporting vitamins and minerals. This blend became Airborne’s signature approach to immune health.
The cornerstone of every Airborne product is vitamin C, which supports multiple aspects of immune function. It helps white blood cells function more effectively, protects against oxidative stress, and supports the skin barrier that prevents pathogen entry. Airborne’s high doses (750-1000mg) provide substantially more than the RDA of 90mg for men and 75mg for women.
Most Airborne formulas include zinc, which plays crucial roles in immune cell development and function. Zinc deficiency impairs immune response, making adequate zinc essential for fighting infections. The latest formulas provide 100% of daily zinc needs rather than the previous 73%.
Newer Airborne products add vitamin D, which research increasingly links to immune function. Vitamin D receptors exist on immune cells, and adequate levels support proper immune response. The inclusion of 1500 IU vitamin D3 in effervescent formulas addresses widespread vitamin D insufficiency.
Benefits of Airborne Supplements
Comprehensive Immune Support: Rather than single nutrients, Airborne provides synergistic combinations of vitamins, minerals, and herbs that work together. The vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D trio represents current science on immune-supporting nutrients, while traditional herbs like echinacea add historical immune support wisdom.
Multiple Format Options: Whether you prefer fizzy drinks, chewable gummies, or tablets, Airborne offers formats to suit different preferences and situations. Effervescent tablets provide maximum absorption, gummies offer convenience, and chewables require no water for ultimate portability.
Travel-Friendly Immune Protection: Airborne gained popularity among travelers seeking immune support during flights and trips. The convenient formats make maintaining immune support simple even when away from home, and the variety of options ensures you can take your preferred format anywhere.
Family-Appropriate Formulations: With products ranging from kids’ gummies to adult high-dose tablets, Airborne offers age-appropriate immune support for the whole family. The kids’ formula provides suitable dosing for children 4+, while adult formulas deliver higher potencies for mature immune systems.
Trusted Brand Reliability: As the #1 pharmacist-recommended immune support brand, Airborne provides confidence in quality and consistency. The brand’s longevity and widespread availability mean you can trust the product and easily find it when needed.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Airborne Product
Match Format to Lifestyle: Effervescent tablets provide maximum absorption and hydration but require water. Gummies offer ultimate convenience without preparation. Chewables need no water but have chalkier texture. Choose based on when and where you’ll take them – effervescent at home, gummies at work, chewables while traveling.
Consider Vitamin C Dosage Needs: If you’re seeking intensive immune support during cold season or travel, choose 1000mg formulas (effervescent or chewable tablets). For daily maintenance, 750mg gummies provide adequate support without excessive intake.
Evaluate Additional Ingredients: The newest effervescent formulas include vitamin D and optimal zinc levels. If you’re not supplementing these elsewhere, choose formulas with comprehensive nutrient profiles. For basic vitamin C support, simpler gummy formulas work fine.
Account for Dietary Restrictions: All Airborne products are gluten-free. The effervescent tablets are sugar-free, while gummies contain added sugars. If you’re managing blood sugar or following keto, choose effervescent formulas. For general use, gummy sugars are minimal.
Factor in Age-Appropriateness: Kids ages 4-11 should use Airborne Kids products with appropriate 500mg vitamin C dosing. Ages 12+ can use adult products. Never give adult formulas to young children – the higher doses aren’t suitable and gummies pose choking risks.
Calculate Cost-Effectiveness: While Airborne costs more than basic vitamin C, compare the complete formula’s value. Buying separate vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, and herbs would cost significantly more. Multi-packs and larger bottles offer better per-serving pricing for regular users.
Consider Frequency of Use: For daily year-round support, bulk gummy packs or large chewable bottles provide best value. For seasonal or occasional use (travel, feeling run-down), single bottles or smaller quantities prevent waste from expiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Airborne actually prevent colds?
Airborne isn’t proven to prevent colds, and the company was sued in 2008 for making unsubstantiated prevention claims. However, the nutrients in Airborne (vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D) do support immune function. Research shows these nutrients help your immune system work properly, which may reduce cold severity or duration. Taking Airborne won’t guarantee you won’t get sick, but maintaining adequate levels of immune-supporting nutrients is beneficial for overall health.
How much Airborne can I safely take in a day?
Follow label directions carefully. Most adult Airborne products recommend one serving daily. Some formulas allow up to three servings during acute situations, but don’t exceed recommended maximums. Taking more won’t provide additional benefits and could cause side effects. The tolerable upper limit for vitamin C is 2000mg daily, and excessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption and immune function. More isn’t better with immune supplements.
Can I take Airborne while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Consult your healthcare provider before taking Airborne during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. While the vitamins and minerals are generally safe, some herbal ingredients like echinacea have limited safety data during pregnancy. Your prenatal vitamin already provides vitamin C and other nutrients, and additional supplementation should be discussed with your doctor to avoid excessive intake of certain vitamins.
Will Airborne interact with my medications?
High-dose vitamin C can interact with certain medications including chemotherapy drugs, statins, and warfarin. Zinc can interfere with antibiotics and penicillamine. Echinacea may interact with immunosuppressants. If you take prescription medications, discuss Airborne with your doctor or pharmacist before use. Always take Airborne at least two hours apart from medications unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
Is Airborne suitable for children?
Airborne Kids products are formulated for children ages 4 and older with appropriate vitamin C dosing (500mg vs. 750-1000mg in adult products). Never give adult Airborne products to children under 12, as the higher nutrient levels aren’t appropriate and gummies pose choking risks. Children under 4 shouldn’t use any Airborne products. Always consult your pediatrician before giving supplements to children.
Can I take Airborne every day long-term?
Yes, Airborne can be taken daily as part of a wellness routine. The vitamin and mineral levels are within safe ranges for long-term use. However, monitor your total nutrient intake from all sources (food, other supplements, Airborne) to avoid exceeding tolerable upper limits. Most people benefit from daily immune support, especially during cold season, but it’s not medically necessary year-round if you eat a nutrient-rich diet.
Why does Airborne contain so much more vitamin C than the RDA?
The RDA (90mg for men, 75mg for women) represents the minimum needed to prevent deficiency, not optimal amounts for immune support. Research on immune function uses much higher doses, typically 500-2000mg daily. Airborne’s 750-1000mg falls within this range. Vitamin C is water-soluble, so excess is excreted rather than stored, making high doses generally safe. However, some people experience digestive upset above 1000mg.
What’s the difference between Airborne and Emergen-C?
Both provide vitamin C and immune-supporting nutrients in similar formats, but formulas differ slightly. Airborne emphasizes comprehensive immune support with herbs, antioxidants, and higher zinc content. Emergen-C focuses more on vitamin C, B vitamins, and electrolytes for energy. Both are effective – choose based on whether you want traditional herbal ingredients (Airborne) or more B vitamins and electrolytes (Emergen-C).
