Washington D.C., October 12, 2018 — In response to the article, “Unapproved Pharmaceutical Ingredients Included in Dietary Supplements Associated with US Food and Drug Administration Warnings,” published today in JAMA, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), the leading trade association for the dietary supplement and functional food industry, has three reminders for consumers:
- These are illegal and unsafe tainted products that should be avoided. Do not purchase products with outrageous names sold by unknown or unfamiliar brands and companies. Purchase products from nationally recognized brands or store brands, and through reputable retailers, distributors, or websites.
- Be wary of products marketed as dietary supplements that have drug-like claims or promise unrealistic results, especially in the categories of sexual enhancement, weight loss, or muscle building. These tainted, illegal products are not dietary supplements.
- Always talk to your doctor or healthcare practitioner about all of the dietary supplements and other self-care products you use, especially if you’re thinking about starting something new.
It is important for consumers to be aware that the products named in the article are tainted products and are part of a fraudulent industry. The mainstream, responsible dietary supplement market is made up of safe, quality products that are manufactured and marketed by law-abiding, ethical companies committed to consumers and their safety. Visit the “One dozen tips for consumers” page on CRN’s website for more information and advice when purchasing dietary supplements.