In recent years, the dietary supplement industry has experienced exponential growth worldwide, driven by a growing concern for health and wellness. This interest in healthier living has led to an increased demand for products that complement the daily diet.

For European Union (EU) companies involved in the production and export of food supplements, it is crucial to consider various logistical aspects when shipping their products to the Americas, Asia, Oceania and Africa.

Currently, the most demanded food supplements include vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and magnesium; digestive wellness products, such as probiotics; and sports supplements, such as proteins and amino acids. As these products are intended for human consumption, they must comply with strict regulations both within and outside the EU.

European legislation sets stringent standards for the manufacture, labeling and marketing of dietary supplements. According to Directive 2002/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, products must comply with precise specifications as to the composition of permitted nutrients, and manufacturers must ensure that their supplements are free of unapproved ingredients. When exporting outside the EU, several factors must be considered:

• Compliance with EU legislation: Before exporting, it is essential that the company verifies that its products comply with all European regulations. This includes product registration, confirmation that the ingredients used are approved and compliance with labeling requirements, which must be clear and truthful.
• Destination market research: It is important to understand the regulations of the destination country, which may include additional requirements for ingredients, labeling and safety testing. For example, in the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), which imposes its own quality and labeling standards.
• Preparation of documentation: Exporting requires the preparation of a complete set of documents, including certificates of origin, product data sheets, export licenses and specific customs documentation.
• Selection of the appropriate logistics infrastructure: The nature of dietary supplements requires a logistics infrastructure that guarantees the preservation of their properties during transportation. This implies the use of temperature and humidity-controlled warehouses, as well as specialized means of transportation.

How to ship food and sports supplements abroad

Exporting food supplements outside the EU can be complex without the right expertise. That’s why having an experienced logistics partner offering personalized advice to ensure that goods reach their destination efficiently, safely and quickly is essential.

At Airpharm, we help companies in the food supplement sector to export and import their products to any country in the world. If you want to optimize your logistics, contact Airpharm now and our team of professionals will guide you through every step of the process.