California has made a significant move regarding dietary supplements. On October 1, Governor Gavin Newsom signed S.B. 862 into law. This new legislation clarifies that dietary supplements are not part of the state’s baby food testing and labeling requirements.
Earlier this year, A.B. 899 was introduced. This law mandated baby food producers to test for toxic elements and disclose results. It defined “baby food” as products for infants and children under two. However, the California Department of Public Health expanded this definition to include dietary supplements aimed at young children. This change raised concerns in the industry.
In response, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) took action. They collaborated with lawmakers, including Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, who drafted A.B. 899, to address this misunderstanding. S.B. 862 now clearly states that dietary supplements are separate from baby food.
Steve Mister, president of CRN, emphasized that the law distinguishes between these two product types. He expressed relief that this clarification allows families to continue using dietary supplements without confusion from unnecessary regulatory hurdles. CRN plans to keep an eye on both A.B. 899 and S.B. 862 to ensure dietary supplements stay exempt from these regulations.
This move reflects a growing trend where regulatory frameworks adapt to meet the nuances of health and wellness products. As public awareness of dietary supplements rises, similar legislative adjustments could become more common across the country.
In related news, a survey by the Council for Responsible Nutrition found that nearly 75% of Americans regularly use dietary supplements for health benefits. This statistic highlights the importance of ensuring product safety without overregulation, allowing consumers to make informed choices about their health.
For more information on dietary supplements and their regulations, you can check the Council for Responsible Nutrition.
