The more things change…

Moss weathering the single digits.

The result of November’s election here in the US has elicited praise, hope, despair, disgust and probably many other emotions in between. While we wait for the implementation of promised policies, many in the dietary supplement sector are excited for the anticipated changes should Robert F Kennedy, Jr be confirmed as head of Health and Human Services. MAHA (Make America Healthy Again), the viral theme circulating through social media channels, emphasizes nutrition, exercise, dietary supplements, psychedelics for mental health, and raw milk among others. As with many things, the saying ‘be careful what you wish for’ may apply here, too.

Currently, federal regulations require Good Manufacturing Practices for the manufacture of dietary supplements, specific labeling requirements, adverse event reporting, and submissions for new dietary ingredients. These activities are designed to limit adulteration and contamination of product as well as ensure accurate and truthful identification, composition, and strength. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not need approval prior to marketing nor must they be proven safe and effective. In addition to focusing on dietary supplements for improved health, the new administration is also focused on cutting federal waste with the FDA in the crosshairs for significant personnel reductions and even the elimination of whole departments. Typically, increased focus means increased regulation. But could increased focus, coupled with budgetary cutbacks, actually mean less regulation, less enforcement, and greater food and supplement insecurity? Nearly everyday, we see another recall or safety alert detailing contaminated food and adulterated dietary supplements that resulted in serious illness, hospitalization, or even death. Addressing such events, with smaller budgets, is concerning to say the least. Additionally, the proposed tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada potentially place domestic wild stands of needed botanicals at increased risk of overharvesting. What ensures ethical harvesting practices other than the ethics of the collector?

It’s possible a reorganization will provide increased scrutiny on large companies, those where the scope of a potential problem would affect many states and thousands of people. It’s also possible that surveillance will be pushed to the states and perhaps small manufacturers will be exempt from some of the currently required regulations. Regardless of the path, small manufacturers, now more than ever, should develop systems to ensure their products are safe for the protection of the user and for the protection of the company. Significant policy shifts always benefit someone. Let’s hope this time the dietary supplement user is the benefactor.