The Importance of Food Supplements for Public Health and Well-Being

Food supplements are foods presented in small unit dose form and containing concentrated sources of nutrients and other food components. The composition, manufacturing, and safety is strictly regulated by an extensive body of legislation, both at EU and at national level. Evidence from dietary surveys indicates that intake of most vitamins and minerals is below recommended amounts and that certain groups of the population do not achieve an adequate intake of critical nutrients, such as vitamin D and iron. In addition, recommended amounts have been established to prevent deficiency rather than to achieve optimal health. Health benefits have been identified at levels that are above these recommended amounts and effects that contribute to the reduction of the risk of chronic diseases mostly require higher intakes than what is feasible through the normal diet. The burden of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, especially in the ageing population, is a further challenge for which targeted supplementation of the diet can have a significant impact. Despite current knowledge about the role that food supplements can have for public health, there remains much reluctance to integrate food supplement use in nutritional policies. Research carried out by Food Supplements Europe has demonstrated the potential for food supplement use to reduce the incidence of disease-related events and healthcare cost spending.