Consumer Warning: Misleading Dietary Supplement Claims Prevalent, Consumer Advocates Seek Tighter Regulation
Advertising Health Claims: Consumer Centre Issues Caution Against Misleading Promises
According to a recent survey, about three-quarters of German citizens regularly use dietary supplements, such as vitamins, herbal extracts, and protein powders. However, a significant portion of these consumers may be swayed by misleading advertising, particularly on social media platforms, the study suggests.
The survey, conducted by Zühlsdorf + Partner PartG on behalf of the Lebensmittelklarheit project, revealed that nearly a quarter of respondents (24 percent) view dietary supplements as a form of natural medicine, despite them being considered food under German law. Furthermore, 21 percent believe that dietary supplements are an integral part of a balanced diet.
These findings prompted the Federation of German Consumer Organisations (vzbv) to call for stricter regulation of advertising, particularly within social networks, due to the rampant use of questionable health claims on these platforms.
"Influencers often promote dietary supplements with unsubstantiated health claims," explains Jochen Geilenkirchen, head of the food team at vzbv. "These endorsements can quickly spread, even when the promised benefits lack scientific support."
Moreover, the survey uncovered sizable knowledge gaps among consumers. For instance, 49 percent wrongly assume that dietary supplements undergo safety testing before being sold, whereas 41 percent incorrectly believe that there are legally mandated maximum amounts for vitamins or minerals.
"It is essential that consumers can trust the safety of products they purchase," says Geilenkirchen. The vzbv advocates for a Europe-wide approval procedure and legally defined maximum amounts for dietary supplement ingredients to protect consumers from potential health risks stemming from misinformation.
The dietary supplement market, valued in the billions, has long been underregulated, according to consumer advocates. Many people may be exposed to exaggerated or illegal advertising claims, such as the belief that ginger can alleviate inflammation - a claim that is not scientifically proven and is legally prohibited.
The vzbv has been advocating for stronger regulation of the dietary supplement market for years, aiming to better inform consumers and shield them from potential health dangers resulting from false promises.
Background
The representative online survey was conducted between October 25 and November 4, 2024, with 2,070 people aged 16 and over taking part. The statistical error tolerance is ±2 percentage points. The Lebensmittelklarheit project is a joint initiative of the Federation of German Consumer Organisations and the Consumer Centres, funded by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Consumer Protection and Regional Planning (BMLEH).
Enrichment Data Evaluation
The provided enrichment data shed light on regulatory frameworks in different countries, specifically the United States and the United Kingdom. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are primarily responsible for ensuring the labeling, safety, and advertising of dietary supplements. Meanwhile, the UK has stricter food and drink advertising regulations that may eventually extend to supplements as well. These details lend a broader context to the discussion about regulating dietary supplement advertising, particularly on social media platforms.
Dietary supplements, often marketed as a part of natural medicine or an essential component of a balanced diet, have been found to contain misleading health claims, with over a quarter of consumers incorrectly assuming they undergo safety testing before being sold. To protect consumers from potential health risks, the vzbv advocates for stricter regulation of dietary supplements, particularly on social media platforms, and a Europe-wide approval procedure with legally defined maximum amounts for dietary supplement ingredients. The unregulated dietary supplement market, valued in the billions, has been a concern for consumer advocates, with unsubstantiated health claims commonly found in advertising. More scientific research is necessary to confirmed the benefits and safety of dietary supplements in the health-and-wellness and nutrition fields.
