126 Animal Supplements: Market Trends, Benefits and Limitations of Academic Research, and Regulatory Considerations in Product Development

Abstract

Abstract Market research shows that U.S. consumers spend approximately $2.5 billion annually purchasing products that are similar to human dietary supplements, but intended for use in dogs, cats, and horses. Demand for these types of products is projected to grow 3% - 5% per year for the next several years. This presentation will examine the animal supplement market and provide insight into the trends that are driving its growth, many of which closely follow trends in human dietary supplements. In addition, this presentation will look at the benefits and limitations of industry sponsored research to verify the safety and efficacy of currently available animal health and nutritional supplements. Three main considerations must be weighed against the exorbitant expense of conducting clinical studies that satisfy the rigors of the scientific community: limitations on claims; lack of intellectual property protection; and the potential influences of similar products that may be available on the human side. Finally, the presentation will delve into the one area that cannot be overlooked when developing new animal health and nutritional supplements—the regulatory requirements that must be satisfied to take a product successfully to market. Any company producing animal health and nutritional supplements should be following current good manufacturing practices (cGMPs), however, since the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA) does not apply to animals, it is important to understand the standards that should be considered when marketing these types of products.