Dietary Supplements: Market Overview and Regulation

About the Study

Dietary supplements can have a variety of positive effects and compensate for nutritional deficiencies, leading to growing demand. In our latest H&Z market study, we not only provide an overview of the market and regulatory environment but also highlight what consumers should look out for.

Vitamins and plant-based dietary supplements (so-called botanicals, e.g. elderberry) are among the most popular dietary supplements. Plant substances are more expensive to obtain, but according to studies, they contain accompanying substances that are important for their health-promoting effect. However, we have found that botanicals cannot be adequately advertised with information about their effects because the review for health claims on botanicals by the authorities is largely without conclusive evaluation. 

This limitation hinders manufacturers from promoting their products effectively and creates uncertainty for consumers, who often have to rely on untested sources. Therefore, dietary supplement associations are proposing changes in regulation along with appropriate measures.

When making purchasing decisions, consumers should consider several factors including effect, ingredients, presentation, packaging, and manufacturing. You can find our detailed findings in our free H&Z market study, which you can have sent to you by e-mail right away.