Know this before starting your own Supplement brand!
If you’ve ever thought about starting your own supplement business, you’re not alone. The health and wellness industry is booming, and dietary supplements are a big part of that growth. But before you jump in, it’s important to understand the requirements to sell dietary supplements in the United States. Whether you’re in Anchorage, Alaska, or anywhere else in the country, there are rules and regulations you need to follow to ensure your business is legal and successful.
So, let’s break it all down. What are dietary supplements, and what do you need to know to sell them? Grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in.
What Are Dietary Supplements?
First things first—what are supplements? Simply put, they’re products designed to supplement your diet. They come in various forms, like pills, powders, capsules, or even gummies, and contain ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, or enzymes. They’re not meant to replace food but to fill nutritional gaps or support specific health goals, like boosting energy, improving digestion, or enhancing athletic performance.
For example, if you’re an Alaskan dealing with long, dark winters, you might take vitamin D supplements to make up for the lack of sunlight. Or if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you might rely on protein powders to recover after a long hike. Dietary supplements are everywhere, and they’re a big business. But selling them isn’t as simple as putting a label on a bottle and calling it a day.
The Basics: Requirements to Sell Supplements in the United States
Selling supplements in the U.S. involves navigating a web of regulations, primarily enforced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These rules are in place to protect consumers and ensure that products are safe, properly labelled, and free from misleading claims. Here’s what you need to know:
Understand FDA Regulations
The FDA regulates supplements under the Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. While the FDA doesn’t approve supplements before they hit the market, it does require that they meet certain standards. This means your products must be safe, properly labelled, and free from contaminants.
For example, if you’re selling a fish oil supplement in Alaska, you need to ensure it’s free from harmful levels of mercury or other toxins. The FDA can take action against any product that poses a risk to consumers, so compliance is non-negotiable.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
One of the most critical requirements to sell dietary supplements in the United States is adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). These are guidelines that ensure your products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.
GMP covers everything from the sourcing of raw materials to the manufacturing process, packaging, and labeling. For instance, if you’re working with a manufacturer to create a custom multivitamin, they must follow GMP to ensure the product is safe and effective.
Proper Labelling
Labelling is a big deal in the supplement industry. The FDA requires that all supplement labels include:
- A statement of identity (what the product is)
- Net quantity of contents
- Nutrition information (Supplement Facts panel)
- Ingredients list
- The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor
Additionally, you can’t make false or misleading claims. For example, you can’t say your supplement “cures” a disease, but you can say it “supports immune health” if you have evidence to back it up.
New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) Notification
If your supplement contains a new dietary ingredient—one that wasn’t sold in the U.S. before October 15, 1994—you must notify the FDA at least 75 days before marketing the product. This notification must include evidence that the ingredient is safe for consumption.
Register Your Business
Before you start selling, you’ll need to register your business with the FDA. This applies to manufacturers, packers, and distributors of dietary supplements. The process is straightforward and can be done online.
If you’re based in Alaska, you’ll also need to register with the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. Don’t forget to check local regulations, as they can vary by state.
Avoid Prohibited Ingredients
The FDA maintains a list of ingredients that are prohibited in dietary supplements. These include certain stimulants, steroids, and other substances that could pose a health risk. Make sure your products don’t contain any of these banned ingredients.
Be Prepared for Inspections
The FDA can inspect your facility at any time to ensure compliance with GMP and other regulations. This might sound intimidating, but if you’re following the rules, you have nothing to worry about. Keep detailed records of your manufacturing processes, ingredient sourcing, and quality control measures.
Why Compliance Matters
You might be wondering, “Why go through all this trouble?” The answer is simple: trust and safety. Consumers rely on dietary supplements to support their health, and they need to know they can trust your products. By following the requirements to sell dietary supplements in the United States, you’re not just protecting your business—you’re protecting your customers.
Plus, non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including fines, product recalls, and even legal action. It’s not worth cutting corners.
Tips for Success in the Supplement Industry
Now that you know the requirements to sell dietary supplements in the United States, here are a few tips to help you succeed:
1. Do Your Research
Before you bring your product to life, take a step back and really get to know the people you’re creating it for. Who are they? What do they care about? What problems are they hoping your product will solve? Understanding your target market isn’t just about numbers or trends—it’s about connecting with real people. Dive into their world: read reviews, join their conversations online, ask questions, and listen closely. Maybe they’re looking for cleaner ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, or something that simply fits into their busy lifestyle. The better you understand their needs, the more meaningful—and successful—your product launch will be.
2. Partner with a Reputable Manufacturer
If you’re not making your own products, choosing the right manufacturing partner becomes absolutely crucial. You want someone you can trust—someone who knows the supplement industry inside and out. A partner with a strong track record, who follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and truly cares about what goes into every bottle or capsule. It’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it right. Ask questions, dig into their experience, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off. The right manufacturer will feel like a team member, not just a vendor, helping you build something you’re proud of.
3. Focus on Quality
In the supplement world, quality isn’t just important—it’s everything. People are trusting you with their health, and that’s a responsibility you can’t take lightly. Start with the best ingredients you can find—pure, effective, and sourced with care. Then, back it up with third-party testing to make sure what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the product. Don’t cut corners, and don’t hide anything. Be open and honest with your customers about what they’re putting in their bodies. When you prioritize quality and transparency, you’re not just selling a supplement—you’re building trust. And that’s what keeps people coming back.
4. Build a Strong Brand
Your brand is your story—it’s what makes people stop, listen, and care. In a sea of supplement companies, what makes yours different? Maybe it’s your mission, your values, or the passion that got you started. Share that story honestly and authentically. Let people see the real you. Design packaging that feels fresh, thoughtful, and true to your message—it’s the first impression you make. Then, build real connections through social media and other platforms. Talk to your audience, not at them. Answer questions, share behind-the-scenes moments, and celebrate wins together. When people feel connected to your brand, they become part of your journey.
The supplement industry moves fast—what’s popular today like weight-loss dietary supplements might be old news tomorrow. New rules come in, trends shift, and customers’ needs keep evolving. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed and stay flexible. Read up on what’s happening in the industry, follow what your audience is talking about, and don’t be afraid to make changes when needed. Maybe it’s tweaking your formula, trying new packaging, or updating how you market. It’s not about chasing every trend—it’s about being in tune with your customers and the world around you. When you stay open and adaptable, your brand stays strong and relevant
A Local Perspective: Selling Supplements in Alaska
If you’re based in Alaska, you have a unique opportunity to cater to the specific needs of your community. For example, Alaskans might be more interested in supplements that support immune health, weight loss dietary supplements, provide energy during long winters, or help with joint pain from outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Selling dietary supplements can be a rewarding venture, but it’s not without its challenges. Understanding the requirements to sell dietary supplements in the United States is the first step toward building a successful and compliant business. From FDA regulations to GMP and proper labelling, there’s a lot to consider—but with the right approach, you can create products that make a real difference in people’s lives.
So, whether you’re in Alaska or anywhere else in the country, take the time to do your homework, follow the rules, and focus on quality. Your customers—and your business—will thank you
