How are supplement claims regulated?

While the dietary supplement industry is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in 1994 the FDA established standards for manufacturers assuring that supplements bear ingredient and nutritional labeling. For instance, according to the FDA, herbal supplements must state the part of the plant from which the ingredient is derived. Other than that, manufacturers are free to make whatever claims they want on the supplement label or in literature, and there is no assurance that these claims are valid. That’s why you need to be cautious when choosing dietary supplements, including herbal remedies. 

Consumer healthcare specialist Dr. Tod Cooperman explains how supplement claims are regulated in the U.S. Watch Dr. Cooperman's video for tips and information on nutritional supplements.