Safety and Toxicity of Nutraceuticals: Concerns, Challenges and Global Regulatory Aspects
摘要
The investigation of safety and toxicity concerns related to nutraceuticals is a prominent subject of study within the realms of nutrition and health. Nutraceuticals refer to bioactive compounds or food sources based products that provide additional health benefits with nutritional value. Vitamins, minerals, botanical extracts, nutritional supplements, and functional food products are potential constituents within this category. Consumers encounter challenges in determining the optimal dosage of nutraceuticals due to the frequent availability of diverse formulations. The safety of these products can be influenced by variations in quality, thus, it is crucial to ensure the uniformity and integrity of these substances. Although nutraceuticals are generally, considered safe when used as directed, excessive consumption can lead to toxicity. Owing to the wide range of nutraceutical products available, their potential physiological advantages, and the imperative to guarantee consumer well-being, regulatory concerns within the nutraceutical sector are intricate and multifaceted. These issues may vary across different countries and often evolve as fresh scientific research reveals new insights into the safety and efficacy concern. Manufacturers, distributors, and consumers of nutraceutical products should consider the regulatory framework in their respective regions. This chapter deals with safety and toxicity issues related to nutraceuticals and their constituents. It also explores the regulatory considerations of various agencies and outlook of Nutraceutical globally.