Large supplement maker adopting DNA testing to verify ingredients

NBTY, one of the nation’s largest makers of popular supplements like ginkgo biloba and ginseng, has agreed to conduct advanced genetic testing to help ensure that its herbal products actually contain the ingredients promised on the label.

The agreement, which affects several popular brands including Solgar, Nature’s Bounty and Sundown Naturals, was announced [Sept. 28] by the New York State attorney general’s office. It follows an agency investigation last year that found that four out of five of the products tested from major retailers did not contain any of the herbs promised on their labels. Instead… the bottles often contained pills made of cheap fillers like powdered rice, asparagus and houseplants, and in some cases, substances like nuts and soy that could be dangerous to people with food allergies.

The agreement… adds pressure on the herbal supplement industry to adopt stricter quality control measures…

. . . .

As part of its agreement with the attorney general, the company said it would phase in the use of DNA bar coding on its herbal ingredients within the next 24 months…

The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion and analysis. Read full, original post: What’s in Your Herbal Pills? Firm Promises DNA Testing for Proof

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