Commission Regulation
European legislation was adopted in 2012 relating to nutrition and health claims made on foods (the Commission Regulation). The Commission Regulation is a European Regulation (432/2012) which sets out what information may be provided regarding the effect of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients on products (on packaging, labels, websites, advertisements, in brochures, books and on social media).
Only approved health claims may be made. These claims provide information about the effect a particular ingredient has on health. Approved health claims are recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). For many years, it was possible for companies to submit health claims, but unfortunately very few of them were approved. Because many of the claims submitted were rejected, some nutrients have no approved claims which relate to them.
Food supplements are not a medication and may only promote health. This means medical claims can never be made in relation to supplements. We all enjoy free speech, and it is possible to make claims about the effect of certain nutrients in articles and brochures and on websites, but in this case there should be no advertising of a specific product or any reference made to it.
The Inspection Board for the Promotion of Health Products
Public advertising of self-care medicines, medical (self-care) aids or health products is in the interest of public health, though it does require clear regulations. Industry, the media and advertisers recognise their social responsibilities, and have created rules with which public advertising must comply.
These rules are drawn up by the Dutch Foundation for Monitoring Medicinal Product Advertising (KOAG) and the Dutch Foundation for the Promotion of Health Products (KAG). On behalf of the KOAG and KAG, the Inspection Board monitors the public advertising of medicines, medical (self-care) aids and health products.
Companies can have their claims verified by KOAG KAG. If a claim is verified and permitted, the company is given an approval number. This can be found on claims made in, e.g., brochures.
Links with more information
https://www.fsai.ie/uploadedFi
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/t
http://ec.europa.eu/food/safet