12.01.08
Consumer confidence in dietary supplements remained high this year, with 81% of American adults indicating they are confident in the safety, quality and effectiveness of dietary supplements—compared to 80% last year—according to a recent survey conducted by Ipsos-Public Affairs for the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), Washington, D.C. Confidence levels in dietary supplements have been on a gradual rise, with 79% of U.S. adults indicating a favorable confidence level in 2006. According to the results of the 2008 CRN Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements, (formerly known as the CRN Consumer Confidence Survey), while confidence remains steady, the online survey showed a slightly lower percentage of adults who label themselves as supplement users, with 64% classifying themselves as such. In 2007 and 2006, 68% and 66% of Americans identified themselves as supplement users, respectively. However, there is good news for the industry. The survey results also demonstrated a rise in the percentage of supplement consumers who take a variety of supplements regularly—48% in 2008, versus 42% in 2007 and 34% in 2006.
Adding to the positive news, 85% of those surveyed further indicated they believe vitamin and mineral supplements are safe, the same figure that was reported in 2007; similarly, 72% agreed that herbal supplements are safe, with 70% reporting that belief last year.
Adding to the positive news, 85% of those surveyed further indicated they believe vitamin and mineral supplements are safe, the same figure that was reported in 2007; similarly, 72% agreed that herbal supplements are safe, with 70% reporting that belief last year.