Launching a supplement brand: the compliance checklist

1. Register and set up

• Register as a food business with your local authority at least 28 days before you start trading. This applies even if a contract manufacturer makes the product.
• Understand that the business whose name is on the label is responsible for the food information.
• Get product liability insurance.

2. Formulate within the rules

• Use only permitted vitamin and mineral forms. Check with the permitted forms finder.
• Keep amounts within the safe upper levels. Use the safe upper levels checker.
• Check other ingredients for novel food status.
• Make sure it's a food, not a medicine. See food or medicine.

3. Choose your manufacturer

Look for a certified site, for example one with SALSA or BRCGS certification. Agree specifications, certificate of analysis requirements and who handles batch release.

4. Get the label right

• Draft the mandatory text from your formulation. Our free label drafting tool does this.
• Use only authorised claims, with the conditions met.
• Check the finished artwork before it's printed.

5. Test and set shelf life

Test the first batches for nutrient content, microbiology and contaminants. Base your best before date on stability data. See setting your best before.

6. Sell

• Get genuine GS1 barcodes.
• Check your EPR obligations.
• Keep website and marketplace claims consistent with the label.
• Keep records: specifications, certificates, batch records and complaints.