[ron101]

Well my $.02 is that this hobby is particularly susceptible to BS products due to it's heavy scientific bias and laymen hobbyists. There are so many variables and unknowns in reef keeping that refuting some of these manufacturers claims with scientific proof would be quite the endeavor. As a result you do get some pretty outrageous claims.

What would you guys consider to be a 'worthy' subsititute?

Food.
Considering the already high levels of trace elements in salt mixes I prefer to simply feed my fish more than the 'starvation' diets that many reefers follow to keep nutrient levels down. This way my fish are healthier and some nutrients make their way into the system.

Of course I don't have the precise control over certain levels. However unless you're armed with all the test kits or a weekly or bi-monthly lab analysis of your water in order to know exactly how much of each supplement to add you're still shooting in the dark...