Food Supplements

ANSES (Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l'alimentation, de l'environnement et du travail - French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety) has issued a warning about the risks of herbal food supplements. A new online tool provides summary information on 118 plants used in these products, to improve consumer safety and information.

Scientific experts provide insights on the reasons behind these stricter regulations on food supplement labeling and health claims, which aim to protect consumers from misleading information and ensure product safety. The article explores the challenges that food supplement manufacturers may face in complying with these regulations, as well as the potential benefits for consumers and the industry

Probiotics have gained popularity in recent years as a dietary supplement, but the use of the term in food supplements has raised concerns over safety and efficacy. In this article, we explore the official authorization of the term 'probiotics' for food supplements, with reference to the french guidelines set out by the DGCCRF that stands for “Direction générale de la Concurrence, de la Consommation et de la Répression des fraudes”. Read on to learn more about the french regulations, labeling requirements, and safety measures in place for probiotics in food supplements.

Photoinitiators are commonly used in the production of food packaging materials, but their use in food supplements has raised concerns about potential health risks. Although regulations exist to ensure that food contact materials do not pose a risk to human health, it is important to follow established guidelines for the safe use of photoinitiators in dietary supplements. Manufacturers must perform migration testing and ensure that photoinitiators do not exceed the limits set by European regulations. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that food supplements are safe to consume.

Food additives are substances added to food products to fulfill specific technological needs, such as ensuring food safety, enhancing appearance, taste, texture, and stability. They can be either natural or synthetic and are identified by their name or code in the list of ingredients. The EU has published regulations authorizing the use of two new food additives in food supplements: carbomer (E 1210) and glycosylated steviol glycosides (E 960d).