Food Supplements Law

The legal requirements for market entry are comparatively low in Germany. An approval requirement does not exist. Before first market entry, however, a food supplement must be notified. This does not, however, relieve the food business operator of responsibility. The food supplement must be marketable, whether with regard to food labelling, i.e. what must or may appear on the label, or composition (specification). Consider, for example, the required distinction from pharmaceuticals and the permissibility of contained ingredients pursuant to the Novel Food Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2015/2283). A non-marketable food supplement can cause considerable problems for those responsible, particularly from a competition law as well as criminal law perspective.

I help you establish a marketable and attractive food supplement on the market. Benefit from my many years of experience advising leading food supplements manufacturers (FS) in Germany.

Trust in my expertise. As author in the Practice Manual Food Supplements & Specialised Foods, Section: Food Supplements, Behr’s Verlag, I possess in-depth specialist knowledge on the subject of food supplements.

Distinction and Definition

Not every product is automatically a food supplement. The distinction from foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals is crucial and often controversial. I assist with:

• Safe categorisation of your product
• Difference between foodstuffs and food supplements
• Exclusion of pharmaceutical character

Health Claims and Advertising Regulations

Health claims for foodstuffs and therefore also for food supplements are strictly regulated. Not all statements are permitted:

Only approved health claims are permitted

Novel Food – New Foodstuffs

Innovative ingredients often fall within the scope of the Novel Food Regulation. I support you with:

• Assessment of Novel Food status
• Approval procedures (EU Novel Food Catalogue)
• Traditional foodstuffs from third countries

Start-Up Advice

Are you developing an innovative food supplements product?

As a start-up, you face the challenge of meeting complex legal requirements to successfully distribute food supplements in Germany. I am a specialist attorney for food supplements and support you at every stage of your journey.

I support you from the outset:

• Product screening and permissibility
• Market research and competitor analysis
• Establishment support and compliance infrastructure

Official Controls and Market Entry

Competent supervisory authorities regularly inspect food supplements. I help you be prepared and react quickly.

Why Legal Advice is Essential