Supplement Regulation Discussions in Latin America Promising, says IADSA

Officials from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Paraguay and Uruguay joined scientists from across the globe to participate in an Expert Workshop on food supplement regulation on August 31.

Sep 13 2011 --- Science and regulation came under the spotlight recently when scientists, academics and regulators gathered in Buenos Aires to discuss issues relating to food supplements in Latin America.

Officials from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Paraguay and Uruguay joined scientists from across the globe to participate in an Expert Workshop on food supplement regulation on August 31, organised by the International Alliance of Dietary/Food Supplement Associations (IADSA).

Discussions at the workshop highlighted the challenge of harmonising regulations in the region, with some countries having specific food supplement legislation and others not. Other factors covered were the numerous categories of food supplements and the setting of maximum levels for vitamins and minerals and other ingredients based on the internationally recognised scientific risk assessment method.

“The workshop was a great success, with fruitful debates on the regulatory challenges and opportunities in regulating food supplements in the region,” said IADSA Regulatory Affairs Director David Pineda. “A key aim of IADSA is to build an international platform for debate and a sound legislative and political environment for the development of the food supplement sector world-wide.”

“This event was a valuable opportunity for regulators and academics to discuss and debate the scientific trends underpinning regulation in this area,” he continued, “and the officials in attendance expressed a willingness to receive more information and continue participating in IADSA events to further debate on these key areas.”