In response to numerous complaints about non-compliant health supplements flooding the market, India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) is taking proactive measures to tighten regulations governing nutraceuticals and health supplements.
Officials revealed that an extensive nationwide drive was conducted by the authority to assess the quality and safety standards maintained throughout the manufacturing and sale processes of these products.
Noting the soaring popularity of such supplements among health-conscious consumers, a senior FSSAI official emphasized the need for stricter standards to ensure consumer safety.
The discussions within the scientific panel of the food authority highlighted concerns about the potential adverse effects of unsupervised usage of supplements, especially when taken alongside other medications.
Recent data indicates a significant surge in the consumption of nutraceuticals, with a substantial portion of sales occurring over the counter. However, concerns linger regarding potential interactions between nutrients and drugs, prompting the FSSAI to consider more stringent regulations.
While regulations for nutraceuticals and health supplements were initially introduced in 2018, the FSSAI has continuously amended and updated these standards to keep pace with evolving market dynamics. The latest round of revisions occurred in 2022.
In addition to proposing tougher regulations, the FSSAI has also undertaken special enforcement drives to ensure compliance. Recent inspections of facilities located in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, were conducted as part of this initiative, with samples collected for further analysis.
These efforts underscore the FSSAI’s commitment to safeguarding consumer health and maintaining the integrity of the food and supplement industry amidst growing concerns over product quality and safety.