26 December, 2018

Information for the consumer in food supplements

In LegaleGo Nutrition we are specialized in registering food companies in the Sanitary Registry, in the labeling of their products and in the procedures related to food supplements. That is why we want to make a brief review about this industry, that of nutritional supplements, which is constantly growing.

In this post, addressed to the final consumer, we will explain what are the nutritional supplements, what are their benefits, when they should be taken, if professional recommendation is needed to consume them and if they are safe for the consumer. In short, information for the consumer in food supplements.

WHAT ARE THEY?

Food supplements, also known as nutritional or nutritional supplements, as the word itself indicates “complement”, “supplement” balanced diets to give the consumer a physiological or nutritional benefit.

These products, regulated in Spain by general food regulations and from the European Union by Directive 2002/46/EC and Regulation 1170/2009, are presented in various formats (tablets, liquids, powders, etc.) and may contain, among other elements, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, fibers and various plants and herbal extracts.

WHAT ARE THEY FOR?

If the consumer leads a healthy lifestyle, based on a balanced and varied diet and regular physical exercise, food supplements will contribute to maintaining good health. Of course, provided that the indications of use that the manufacturer necessarily exposes in the labeling are respected.

But the supplements will never be used to replace a meal.

WHEN TO CONSUME THEM?

Carrying out a healthy, balanced and varied diet supplements would not be necessary. But in some groups, due to the characteristics of individuals, nutrients are not easily acquired or special nutrition is necessary to achieve certain objectives or improve physical health. That is why it is important to know the information for the consumer in food supplements.

Among these groups, pregnant and lactating women, women with menopause, elderly people with reduced mobility, vegans and vegetarians, people with a restrictive diet or athletes with intense physical activity, usually have special nutritional needs and choose to take certain supplements.

DO I NEED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE TO CONSUME THEM?

Food supplements can support the diets of healthy people, so they may choose to follow the mode of use set out in the product labeling. But in the aforementioned groups, which have special nutritional needs, it is preferable to consult with a specialist.

ARE THEY SAFE?

As long as the consumer follows the manufacturer’s instructions there is no doubt that they are. Information for the consumer in food supplements must be followed. Food companies, mainly responsible for the food safety of the product, must strictly follow the guidelines set by the European Union that has shown great concern in the quality and safety of supplements in recent decades.

If you have any legal or technical questions about food supplements, the food or labeling industry, among others, contact us without obligation.