What a food supplement is (and what it is not)
31 October 2026
They are sold in pharmacies or para-pharmacies, but they are not medicines. We explain what food supplements are, what their labelling regulates, and how to read it.
Food supplements are in almost every pharmacy, and yet they raise many questions. Are they medicines? Who checks what they say? What do the percentages on the label mean?
A simple definition
A food supplement is a food that provides nutrients (such as vitamins or minerals) or other substances in concentrated form. It comes in doses: capsules, tablets, sachets or vials. Its purpose is to complement a normal diet, not to replace it.
It is not a medicine
This is the most important difference. A medicine is used to diagnose or treat diseases and goes through a specific health authorisation. A food supplement does not. That is why the law forbids presenting a supplement as a remedy for any disease.
What can be said about a supplement
In the European Union, only the health claims authorised by the European Commission after assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) may be used. They are specific sentences with fixed wording. For example: "Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue".
If an advert says something very different, be wary.
How to read the label
- Amount per dose: what each capsule or tablet provides.
- %NRV (nutrient reference value): the percentage of an adult's daily reference intake covered by that dose. 100% does not mean "more is better".
- Recommended daily dose and the warning not to exceed it.
- The mandatory statement: "Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet".
Before taking one
If you take medication, are pregnant or have a health condition, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. A good supplement starts with knowing whether you need it.
DINHELSE PHARMA products are food supplements, not medicines. This information is for general guidance and does not replace the advice of a health professional.
Illustration created with artificial intelligence.