What is a National Brand Equivalent?

06/03/25 By Victoria Robinson

Why Pay for the Name? Understanding National Brand Equivalents and Why Safetec is the Smart Choice.

When shopping for infection control, first aid, or over-the-counter products, you’ve likely come across the term National Brand Equivalent (NBE). But what does that actually mean—and how does it compare to trusted, American-made options like Safetec? 

Let’s break it down.

What is a National Brand Equivalent (NBE)?

A National Brand Equivalent product is formulated to have the same active ingredients and deliver similar performance as a well-known, name-brand item. Essentially, you’re getting the same clinical efficacy without the inflated price tag that often comes with a big name.

NBEs are a smart choice for cost-conscious consumers and businesses—particularly when quality, safety, and regulatory compliance aren’t sacrificed in the process.

How Does Safetec Compare?

At Safetec of America, we take the idea of equivalency one step further. We manufacture products that meet or exceed national brand standards, with the added benefit of being made entirely in the United States.

Let’s take a look at a few examples:

Learn more about our National Brand Equivalent products and 📥 download our NBE comparison sell sheet to see how Safetec stacks up.

Why Choosing Safetec Makes Sense

Here’s what sets us apart:

    • 🇺🇸 Manufactured in the USA
      • Every Safetec product is batched, tested, packaged, and shipped from our facilities in Buffalo, NY. That means no overseas delays or uncertain sourcing. Just reliable products, made for America, by American workers.
    • ⭐️ High-Quality Ingredients & Formulas 
      • Our products use the same active ingredients as national brands—but often with simpler, cleaner formulations and added conveniences like single-use packaging.
    • 💵 Cost Savings Without Compromise
      • You can save money and get premium performance. Our prices are generally lower than national brands, and our quality speaks for itself.
    • ✅ Regulatory Compliance You Can Trust
      • Safetec operates in an FDA-regulated facility and holds UL cGMP certification. That means strict quality control, safety, and consistency in every product we make.

Why Pay More for a Name?

You don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. With Safetec, you’re getting national brand performance—without the national brand price. Plus, you’re supporting American manufacturing and helping reduce reliance on international supply chains. You’re also supporting the people we employ and their families.

So next time you’re restocking your shelves or choosing a partner for infection control and compliance products, ask yourself: Why pay for the name when ours delivers the same—if not better?

Want to know more? Need help finding the right Safetec product? Want to explore private label options? Contact your Account Manager today or call us at 1-800-456-7077 or email us at salesteam@safetec.com.

About Safetec of America  

For over 30 years, Safetec has been a leading manufacturer of first aid, infection control, and over-the-counter products. Located in Buffalo, N.Y., all our products are manufactured and distributed by us in our state-of-the-art FDA regulated facilities.

We first entered the infection control industry with Red Z®, our flagship product, to aid in protecting against infection during the AIDS epidemic. Since then, we have expanded our manufacturing capabilities and offer five product lines of various products. www.safetec.com