Even though retailers don’t manufacture or distribute the products they sell, consumers expect them to do their due diligence.
Federal regulations require dietary supplements manufacturers to comply with GMPs, but they are not required to provide proof of GMP compliance before shipping products. Recently, however, several major retailers and online shopping platforms have begun requiring brands and manufacturers to provide proof of GMP compliance and other quality assurance requirements. The new study suggests Americans want retailers to go beyond what’s required by law.
Perhaps the most prominent case that highlights this industry dilemma is Amazon. The e-commerce juggernaut introduced sweeping standards in late 2020 following an investigation from supplement brand NOW.
Last year supplement manufacturer NOW uncovered rampant quality issues after testing several “no name” brands sold on Amazon, highlighting the need for more oversight. Today the platform requires comprehensive testing and other documentation that covers potency claims, facility GMPs and more. The stipulations are a long time coming, but stakeholders say it’s a step in the right direction.
NSF takes consumers’ pulse
According to a new survey from global public health organization NSF International, the consumers most likely to demand laboratory testing of supplements are those who have children, consumers in urban areas, consumers 23 to 35 years old, and men making over $90,000 per year.
The online survey conducted in July 2021 on behalf of NSF International polled 1,000 consumers in the US about their attitudes and behaviors related to dietary supplements, personal care products and OTC drugs.