Why We Verify Safety of Supplements Sold at Neogenesis
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The supplement industry in the United States has seen explosive growth over the last few decades, with millions of Americans turning to dietary supplements to improve their health, boost their immune systems, or aid in fitness goals. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), more than 75% of American adults take dietary supplements, contributing to an industry worth over $40 billion annually. While supplements can offer significant health benefits, the lack of stringent regulation means that not all supplements are safe. This is a major concern, as contaminants, mislabeling, and harmful ingredients can easily make their way into the products on store shelves. This is where third-party testing becomes vital in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of supplements.
Why Some Supplements Aren’t Safe
Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, dietary supplements do not require pre-market approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the FDA can step in to regulate supplements after they’ve entered the market if safety concerns arise, the lack of initial oversight means that consumers are often exposed to products that have not been thoroughly tested for safety or effectiveness. This has led to significant problems in the industry, where some supplements contain harmful substances or don’t contain the ingredients they claim.
Contamination is one of the biggest issues. Supplements can be tainted with heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, or even unapproved pharmaceutical drugs. For example, a 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that over 750 supplements sold between 2007 and 2016 were adulterated with hidden pharmaceuticals, including ingredients linked to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health risks . Contaminated supplements can pose severe risks, especially to people with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, or those taking prescription medications.
Mislabeling is another major concern. Many products on the market do not contain the ingredients or potency listed on the label. In a 2015 investigation by the New York Attorney General's Office, herbal supplements from major retailers like Walmart, GNC, and Target were found to contain none of the labeled herbs. Instead, the products contained fillers such as rice powder, asparagus, and houseplant material . Mislabeling not only defrauds consumers but also puts their health at risk, particularly if they are unknowingly ingesting allergens or harmful additives.
The Importance of Third-Party Testing
Given the lack of regulatory oversight in the supplement industry, third-party testing has emerged as a critical tool for ensuring consumer safety. Third-party testing involves an independent laboratory analyzing a supplement to verify that it contains the ingredients and potency stated on the label, and to ensure it is free from harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and pathogens.
By choosing supplements that have been third-party tested, consumers can feel more confident that the products they are taking are safe and effective. This is especially important because it adds a layer of accountability. While manufacturers may have their own internal testing processes, third-party testing provides an unbiased verification that ensures the product meets industry standards for quality and safety.
Benefits of Third-Party Testing:
- Transparency: Consumers can trust that what is listed on the label is accurate. Third-party testing ensures that supplements contain the correct ingredients in the correct amounts.
- Purity: Testing verifies that the product is free from harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria.
- Efficacy: Verifying that the supplement contains the correct potency ensures that consumers are receiving an effective product.
- Consumer Trust: Independent verification builds consumer confidence in the safety and efficacy of the product, which is especially important in an industry with minimal regulation.
Why We Test the Supplements We Sell:
At Neogenesis, we believe in providing not only the best supplements but also the safest. As individuals who seek safe and effective supplements for ourselves, we understand the importance of ensuring that others have access to the same high standards. This commitment drives our dedication to offering a safe solution for everyone, which is why all of our products undergo rigorous third-party testing. By verifying the purity, potency, and safety of each product, we ensure that our customers can trust the supplements they use. Furthermore, in the spirit of full transparency, we make all third-party test results available upon request, so you can feel confident in what you are putting into your body.
By choosing supplements that are tested, consumers can ensure that the products they are purchasing have undergone rigorous testing for both safety and efficacy.
The U.S. supplement industry, though vast and popular, remains largely unregulated. This lack of oversight leads to significant concerns about the safety, purity, and efficacy of many supplements on the market today. Contaminated and mislabeled products can pose serious risks to consumers, particularly when these issues go undetected. That’s why third-party testing is crucial. It offers an essential safeguard, ensuring that supplements are not only free from harmful contaminants but also deliver the ingredients and potency they promise. As a consumer, opting for third-party tested supplements is one of the best ways to protect your health and make informed choices in a largely self-regulated market.
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