EFSA: Safety of Food Supplements in Europe

The use of food supplements in the European Union has grown steadily over the last decade. Consumers are seeking products that promise better health, but authorities must ensure they are safe, effective, and correctly labeled.

In this context, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) plays a key role as the scientific body responsible for assessing risks and supporting EU policymakers in their decision-making.

Table of contents

1. EFSA's mission on supplements

2. Why is this important for businesses?

3. EPSA: The challenge of staying in compliance

4. How can Belab Services help you?

EFSA: Safety of Food Supplements in Europe

EFSA's mission on supplements

EFSA does not legislate directly, but issues independent scientific opinions that influence how food supplements are regulated.

EFSA covers three main areas

• Ingredient safety : EFSA reviews new vitamins, minerals, botanical extracts, or other bioactive substances before they can be incorporated into supplements. This includes assessing purity, toxicity, and bioavailability.

• Safe intake levels : EFSA establishes Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs) that serve as a guide for consumers and regulators on how much can be safely consumed.

• Health claims : Many companies want to highlight the benefits of their supplements, but claims such as “supports the immune system” or “contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism” must be scientifically supported. EFSA assesses the evidence before such claims can appear on labels.

Why EFSA this important for businesses?

For supplement manufacturers, EFSA's role goes beyond the scientific: it has a direct impact on business.

An unapproved ingredient or rejected claim may involve:

• Reformulate products.

• Reprint labels and packaging.

• Delay market entry.

In addition, certain ingredients fall into the category of novel foods, which require additional evaluations before being authorized in the EU. Examples include some botanical extracts or new sources of nutrients.

EFSA: The challenge of staying in compliance

The European regulatory framework is complex: multiple regulations (on supplements, food fortification, novel foods, and health claims) interrelate with EFSA assessments. Companies must stay up to date with guidance, scientific opinions, and updates to the lists of authorized substances.

This is where specialized regulatory support is key.

How can Belab Services help you?

At Belab Services, we help companies navigate the European regulatory landscape for food supplements:

• We evaluate whether your formula and ingredients comply with regulations.

• We guide you in the correct use of health claims.

• We provide support in the preparation of dossiers related to EFSA evaluations.

• We verify that your labels and documentation are aligned with EU requirements.

With our experience, you can focus on your product innovation while we take care of regulatory strategy and compliance.

Contact us today and ensure your supplements are safe, compliant, and ready for the European market.

Experts in international cosmetic regulation