FDA Passes Manufacturing Standards for Vitamins and Supplements

WENDY TOTH

ROCKVILLE, Md. — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized its manufacturing standards for the dietary supplement industry on Friday. “This rule helps to ensure the quality of dietary supplements so that consumers can be confident that the products they purchase contain what is on the label," said Commissioner of Food and Drugs Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D. "In addition, as a result of recent amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, by the end of the year, industry will be required to report all serious dietary supplement-related adverse events to FDA." The good manufacturing practices rule aims to prevent inclusion of the wrong ingredients; too much or too little of a dietary ingredient; contamination by substances such as natural toxins, bacteria, pesticides, glass, lead and other heavy metals; as well as improper packaging and labeling. “FDA now has the power to enforce rigorous manufacturing standards that will rid the industry of noncompliant manufacturers. Ultimately, it will build consumer confidence in our industry,” said Connie Barry, president and chief executive officer of Northridge, Calif.-based Pharmavite, the manufacturer of Nature Made vitamins.

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