Finally take dietary supplements correctly - Hidden Dangers in Dietary Supplements Expose Weak Oversight in Germany

Dangerous dietary supplements are reaching store shelves with little oversight. Tests show some products contain harmful substances like carcinogens, salmonella, lead, or banned ingredients. At the same time, the actual content in these supplements can differ by up to 50 percent from what's listed on the label.

For years, consumer advocates, scientists, and politicians have warned about weak regulations in the supplement industry. Unlike medicines, these products are only governed by food law. No authority checks their safety, effectiveness, or correct dosage before they go on sale. Companies simply register them with the German Federal Institute for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) without any verification.

Random inspections by food safety agencies in Germany's federal states have uncovered serious issues. Over half of 106 analysed supplements exceeded the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment's (BfR) recommended maximum for at least one nutrient—sometimes by up to 700 percent. The EU plans to introduce binding limits for certain ingredients, including selenium, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and iron, starting in 2026. These new rules will cap daily doses, such as 100 µg for vitamin D, 25 mg for vitamin B6, and 30 mg for iron, to prevent overdosing.

Consumers are advised to check the reference values set by the German Nutrition Society (DGE) and the BfR's maximum limits. Without stricter controls, experts warn, risky products will continue to slip through the cracks.

The EU's upcoming regulations aim to reduce health risks by setting clear dosage limits. Until then, buyers must remain cautious, as supplements can still contain hidden dangers or incorrect amounts. Authorities urge consumers to research products carefully before use.