Navigating the Legal Aspects of Working With a Supplement Manufacturer

Customers want proof of the efficacy of dietary supplements and reassurance that they contain high-quality ingredients. Branded and trademarked ingredients can offer both.

Using pre-existing supplements with the proper legal permissions can give you a competitive edge without taking on entire liability for the product. However, working with a supplement contract manufacturer requires careful planning.

Legal Issues

It would help if you did not violate FDA or FTC regulations as a supplement brand owner. To do so, it’s essential to carefully select your contract manufacturer and maintain a clear contract in place.

Your brand should also work with a manufacturing facility that prioritizes quality. Look for cGMP certifications and a focus on transparency throughout the manufacturing process. These are reasonable indications of a reputable manufacturer that adheres to DSHEA and FDA guidelines.

It’s also important to note that the FDA regulates not only the labeling of dietary supplements but also all written, printed, and graphic marketing material associated with those products. This includes all intended use claims, even if not included on the product label. Using branded and trademarked ingredients can give your supplement line an added level of protection in case a competitor begins to make similar claims. It can also build customer trust and serve as a marketing advantage.

Licensing

Whether starting a new brand or revamping your current one, working with a supplement manufacturer is a great way to reduce costs and ensure quality. However, choosing the proper contract manufacturer isn’t a simple task. You’ll want to consider the manufacturer’s capabilities, production speed, and more.

You’ll also want to ensure your chosen manufacturer has robust quality control measures. This will help you avoid potential problems down the road and protect your reputation as a brand.

When evaluating a supplement CDMO, look for multiple added-value services such as product planning, marketing, and professional lecturer support. This will help you accelerate your products’ promotion and boost brand awareness. Also, look for a supplement manufacturer offering low minimums and fast lead times to minimize start-up costs. This will allow you to test the waters and see if you like the work of a particular supplement manufacturer before committing to larger orders.

Regulatory Compliance

The FDA policies associated with the nutraceutical industry are constantly changing, so it is essential to work with a manufacturer that prioritizes keeping up with these changes. You want to find out whether they have experience working with the FDA and if their team is knowledgeable enough to help you navigate any potential obstacles you might encounter during production.

They should also be able to guide you with formulation development, label design and packaging, regulatory compliance, and other areas of concern for your brand. This is a valuable resource for new supplement brands, especially those who don’t have the resources to hire their own legal and regulatory team.

Finding a private-label supplement manufacturer is crucial for new brands, as these manufacturers can produce popular stock products and custom brand formulas quickly and efficiently. They should also have a solid supply chain and quality control measures in place to ensure the safety of their products.

Insurance

The supplement industry is governed by many laws, which can be complex. Failing to follow these rules can lead to hefty fines for your brand. In addition, it is critical to work with a contract manufacturer that has the right insurance coverage.

You also need to consider if your chosen private-label supplement manufacturers have the necessary product certifications for your customers. Today’s consumers place a lot of value on well-recognized certifications such as organic, vegan, and non-GMO.

Finally, you should know the time frame for a supplement manufacturing company to produce a new product once you submit your purchase order. An excellent dietary supplement manufacturer can provide you with a realistic timeline. Choosing one that promises a turnaround time that is too quick could signal that they are cutting corners in production or using substandard ingredients.