EHPM has been one of the main actors involved in the discussions that led to the adoption of the Food Supplement Directive 2002/46/EC on 10 June 2002.
This Directive establishes a European framework for the regulation of food supplements that were previously subject to a variety of national rules. The aim is to ensure that consumers are provided with safe and appropriately labelled products across the EU.
This legislation has allowed the recognition of food supplements as a specific food category and provided a clear definition of food supplements as concentrated sources of nutrients and other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect marketed in dose form.
Currently the Directive only lays down rules for vitamins and minerals and specific labelling requirements. It provides positive lists of authorised nutrients and their sources. Some vitamin and mineral sources currently marketed in member states but not yet on the EU positive lists are subject to national derogations pending their evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority and potential addition to the EU lists.
In 2007, the European Commission took further steps towards the completion of this Directive by issuing an Orientation paper on minimum and maximum levels for vitamins and minerals. A proposal is expected towards the end of 2008, and the Commission is also expected to advise on its intention to regulate ingredients other than vitamins and minerals this year.
EHPM has already prepared for the coming discussions and will continue to promote the industry’s views with the EU decision-makers.