EX-12.1 7 a2195566zex-12_1.htm EXHIBIT 12.1
QuickLinks -- Click here to rapidly navigate through this document


Exhibit 12.1


NBTY INC.

COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

 
   Fiscal year ended September 30,  
(Dollars in thousands)
  2009   2008   2007  

EARNINGS AVAILABLE TO COVER FIXED CHARGES:

                    

Income before provision for income taxes

   $ 228,968   $ 231,040   $ 303,976  

Less:

                    
 

Interest capitalized

     —     (1,404 )   (912 )

Add:

                    
 

Fixed charges deducted from earnings (see below)

     77,010     56,275     51,432  
               

Earnings available to cover fixed charges

   $ 305,978   $ 285,911   $ 354,496  
               

FIXED CHARGES:

                    
 

Interest expensed and capitalized and amortized premiums, discounts and capitalized expenses related to indebtedness

   $ 34,882   $ 18,639   $ 16,749  
 

Appropriate portion (1/3) of rentals

    
42,128		    
37,636		    
34,683		  
               

Fixed charges

  
$
77,010		  
$
56,275		  
$
51,432		  
               

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

    
3.97		    
5.08		    
6.89		  
               



QuickLinks

NBTY INC. COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES