In the UK, food supplements may only carry authorised nutrition and health claims. These claims are governed by retained Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods.


Using unauthorised or incorrectly worded claims can result in regulatory action, marketplace removal, or product reclassification. Understanding how health claims work is essential for any brand selling supplements in the UK.


What Is a Health Claim?

A health claim is any statement that suggests a relationship between a food, ingredient, or nutrient and health.

There are two main types relevant to supplements:


1. Nutrition Claims

These describe the presence or quantity of a nutrient. Examples:

  • “High in Vitamin C”

  • “Source of Magnesium”

  • “Sugar free”

These claims must meet specific compositional criteria.


2. Health Claims

These describe the role of a nutrient in the body. Examples of authorised UK health claims include:

  • “Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.”

  • “Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function.”

  • “Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system.”

Only claims listed on the Great Britain Nutrition and Health Claims Register may be used.


Authorised Claims Only

You may not create your own interpretation of a health benefit. For example:

  • “Boosts immunity”
  • “Improves bone strength”
  • “Supports mental health recovery”

Even if similar wording exists in authorised form, claims must align with the approved wording and conditions of use.

Where a claim is authorised, the product must also meet the minimum nutrient level required to make that claim.


Botanical and “On Hold” Claims

Botanical claims are more complex. Some botanical claims remain “on hold” pending regulatory review. While certain businesses choose to use these claims, their status is not fully resolved.


Brands should exercise caution and seek independent regulatory advice before relying on “on hold” claims, particularly for online marketplace listings.


What Is Not Allowed

The following are not permitted on food supplements:

  • Claims to treat, prevent, or cure disease

  • References to specific medical conditions

  • Comparisons with pharmaceutical products

  • Statements implying guaranteed medical outcomes

Such wording may move a product into medicinal territory. (For more information, see our Borderline & MHRA Guidance section.)


Conditions of Use

Authorised health claims can only be used if:

  • The nutrient is present at the required minimum level

  • The wording reflects the authorised claim

  • The claim is not exaggerated

  • The overall presentation remains non-medicinal

Claims must be clear, accurate, and understandable to the average consumer.


Health Claims and Marketing Content

Health claims rules apply to more than just packaging. They also apply to:

  • Website product descriptions

  • Blogs

  • Social media posts

  • Marketplace listings

  • Paid advertising

A compliant label does not override non-compliant website content.


Nutribl’s Position

Nutribl operates within a BRC-certified supply framework and supplies private label stock supplements intended for sale under UK food supplement regulations.


We can provide advisory label text files based on our interpretation of UK nutrition and health claims legislation. These are provided for guidance only. Brand owners are fully responsible for:

  • Final label wording

  • Website and marketing content

  • Marketplace listings

  • Compliance with all applicable regulations

All artwork must be reviewed and formally signed off by the client prior to production.