What is a common problem with the labeling of mass-market supplements?

The issue of mislabeling is a significant and common problem in the mass-market supplement industry. Many supplements may not contain the ingredients listed on their labels, or the quantities of those ingredients can differ significantly from what is stated. This inconsistency can be due to various factors, such as manufacturing errors or lack of quality control during production processes. When consumers rely on these labels for information and make decisions based on them, they may not be receiving the expected health benefits or could even be exposing themselves to potential risks if the product contains harmful substances or allergens that are not properly disclosed. This mislabeling poses a challenge for both consumers and health professionals in ensuring product safety and efficacy.

On the other hand, while over-formulation can occur in some supplements, it does not reflect the primary concern that mislabeling presents. Requirements for prescriptions apply to certain pharmaceuticals but not to most mass-market supplements, and widespread availability, although relevant, does not address the fundamental issue of labeling integrity.