Supplements: Are Warning Labels Losing Their Impact?

The FDA is considering a significant change to how warnings appear on supplement labels. Currently, every health claim on a supplement—such as boosting the immune system or improving heart health—must include a bold warning stating that the FDA has not verified the claim. However, this warning may soon only appear once on the package instead of next to every claim.

Potential Benefits and Concerns

This change could make labels less cluttered and save companies money. However, some experts are concerned that fewer warnings might make it harder for consumers to understand what they're buying.

Dr. Pieter Cohen, a professor at Harvard, highlighted a major issue: supplements sometimes don't even list all their ingredients correctly. In a study he conducted, nearly 9 out of 10 melatonin gummies had incorrect labels.

The FDA insists that the change won't make warnings harder to find, arguing that people are paying more attention to labels these days. However, critics worry this could be the start of making warnings less noticeable over time. Others believe one clear warning is sufficient, as long as it's easy to find.

Supplement Popularity and Industry Response

Supplements are extremely popular in the U.S., with most people taking at least one. There are countless products available, and the FDA is still deciding what to do. They have paused enforcing the current rule while they evaluate the situation.

Meanwhile, prominent figures in the "Make America Healthy Again" movement are strong supporters of supplements. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a vocal advocate and takes many supplements himself. He has criticized the FDA's approach to vitamins and supplements.

The supplement industry is enthusiastic about the possible change, arguing that one clear warning is enough to maintain transparency. However, only time will tell how this will unfold.