Americans Embrace Supplements Amid Confusion on Regulation, Survey Reveals
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
A recent survey of U.S. adults reveals that while a majority are turning to daily supplements to support their health, misconceptions and gaps in knowledge about these products persist. The survey, conducted in August 2024, highlights both the motivations behind supplement use and the challenges consumers face in navigating the complex market of health products. Despite widespread enthusiasm for vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements, nearly half of the respondents incorrectly believe that these products are subject to FDA approval before reaching the market.
The 2024 Habits and Healthspan Survey, conducted by Ipsos in partnership with Amway, included responses from over 1,000 Americans aged 18 to 70. It found that 77% of participants take at least one dietary supplement daily, with 36% reporting they consume multiple supplements each day. Reasons for supplement use range from filling nutritional gaps and supporting immune health to enhancing physical performance and recovery. Interestingly, supplement use was relatively consistent between men and women, yet Spanish-speaking Hispanic respondents showed lower daily usage rates, with only 67% taking at least one supplement and just 24% taking multiple.
Household income appears to play a role in supplement consumption habits. Among those earning $100,000 or more, 82% reported taking supplements daily, compared to 70% in households with an income below $50,000. This discrepancy also extends to perceived benefits, with higher-income respondents more likely to believe their supplement routine positively impacts their health and wellbeing. While 82% of those in higher income brackets feel supplements contribute significantly to their wellness, only 72% of lower-income households share that sentiment.
The survey also uncovered a notable disconnect between consumers' confidence in supplements and their understanding of how these products are regulated. Only 47% of respondents were aware that the FDA does not approve dietary supplements before they hit the shelves. Under the current regulatory framework, supplement manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and accuracy of their product labels, leaving consumers with the responsibility of evaluating these products independently. Despite this, 79% of supplement users believe they are knowledgeable about how their supplements interact with their diet, although nearly one in five still acknowledge a lack of understanding.
One of the key findings of the survey is the growing consumer demand for transparency and traceability. An overwhelming 87% of respondents expressed a desire to know exactly what they are putting into their bodies, with 67% saying they are more likely to purchase supplements if they can trace the ingredients’ origins. More than half of those surveyed emphasized the importance of understanding the seed-to-production process to ensure the quality of the supplements they consume. Additionally, 77% of supplement users indicated it is crucial that their supplements are manufactured in the United States, though only 54% reported that all their household supplements are U.S.-made.
Knowledge gaps also extend to how supplements are incorporated into broader health habits. While the survey showed that most Americans are eager to improve their health routines, many are influenced by external factors, with 57% stating that they began taking supplements due to medical advice or health concerns. Furthermore, those with children were more likely to feel confident about their knowledge, with one in three respondents in households with children describing themselves as “very knowledgeable” about how supplements fit into their dietary regimen, compared to just 18% in households without children.
In addition to supplements, the survey highlighted growing interest in fortified foods and preventive health measures. A significant number of respondents reported plans to incorporate products like probiotics, herbal teas, and immune-support supplements into their diets over the next year. This interest reflects a broader trend of Americans seeking proactive ways to support their health, even as they navigate uncertainties surrounding product efficacy and regulatory oversight.
Ultimately, the findings emphasize a need for greater consumer education in the supplement space. As more people turn to these products to fill perceived nutritional gaps and enhance their wellbeing, bridging the knowledge gap becomes essential to help consumers make informed decisions about what they put in their bodies.
Elevate Your Expertise: Tune in to Our YouTube Channel for Exclusive Podcasts with fitness and wellness Industry Titans and Game-Changers
