Rótulos de suplementos de vitaminas e minerais comercializados na cidade de São Paulo: atendem as normas sanitárias brasileiras?

Abstract

Introduction: The information provided in supplements labels contributes to consumer guidance on choosing the most suitable product for their needs; therefore, labels with nonconformity information to health legislation can negatively affect consumer health. Objectives: To evaluate the compliance of vitamin and mineral supplements labels marketed in the Sao Paulo city during the 2014–2017 period. Method: A checklist was drawn up covering the main items related to the labeling, which were verified in each package: name under which the product is sold; list of ingredients; composition; net quantity; identification of origin; batch identification; expiration date; warning and guidance statements; storage instructions; use of expressions; nutrition labeling; information on the presence of gluten and permitted additives. Results: The main irregularities observed were the presence of phrases or expressions inducing the consumer to mistake (29%), the incorrect description name (15%), and statement of active components not authorized to vitamin supplements (5%). Conclusions: The results highlight the problems related to the commercialization of vitamin and mineral supplements in Brazil, due to a complex legislation difficult to interpret that makes it possible for producing companies to create excuses to circumvent the law, damaging the health of the population.