FDA warns vs food, diet supplements anew

MANILA, Philippines - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday reiterated its warning to the public that food and dietary supplements do not have therapeutic effects.

In an advisory, the FDA said the public should observe caution in taking these supplements because they do not have “curing” benefits.

“This applies to testimonials given by certain individuals with or without the consent of food manufacturers, importers, or distributors promoting or advertising said product,” the FDA said.

According to the FDA, promotional or advertising materials containing testimonials and anecdotal promotion on these supplements associated with healing or curing diseases are not allowed.

The agency said consumers should not stop taking prescribed drugs in favor of supplements “unless otherwise advised by a physician.”