FDA standards for supplements

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In a message dated 12/30/02 7:02:05, lipodystrophy writes:

Not entirely. The only claims that can be made for food or dietary

supplements are related to their effects on structure and function. These

must also be based on some degree of scientific agreement

The difference between "drug" and "supplements" for the FDA is that "drugs" may make specific health claims ( i.e. increases function of cardiac muscle) and the maker must show safety and efficacy.

Supplements may make only "general" claims, i.e. "good for the immune system" and it is the responsibility of the FDA to prove that the claim is invalid. This is a pretty low standard.

JB