WASHINGTON, DC – In a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the Natural Products Association (NPA) today urged the Agency to take action against nutritional supplements claiming to “treat or prevent infection by the coronavirus.” Both the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have authority over labeling claims for dietary supplements. It is illegal for nutritional supplement manufactures to claim their products “prevent, treat, or cure” an illness.
NPA’s letter to the FDA can be viewed here.
“If a product sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. There is no such thing as a magic pill and consumers should steer clear of any product being marketed as a nutritional supplement that says it will prevent, treat, or cure coronavirus or any other illness,” said Daniel Fabricant, Ph.D., President and CEO of NPA. “While these products may appeal to people who are concerned about getting sick, there is no substitute for doing what is recommended every flu season: wash your hands often; avoid people who are sick; cover your mouth and nose when you cough; and if you’re the one feeling sick, stay home.”
Consumers who are concerned about a statement made on a product label can report it to the FDA. And if a claim sounds false or unbelievable, or claims to treat or cure a disease, consumers can tell the FTC.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
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Natural Products Association
The Natural Products Association (NPA) is the trade association representing the entire natural products industry. We advocate for our members who supply, manufacture and sell natural ingredients or products for consumers. The Natural Products Association promotes good manufacturing practices as part of the growth and success of the industry. Founded in 1936, NPA represents over 1,000 members accounting for more than 10,000 locations of retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors of natural products, including foods, dietary supplements, and health/beauty aids. Visit www.npanational.org.
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