Supplements have become an integral part of the health and wellness industry, with millions of people around the world relying on them for various health benefits. However, with so many different products available, it can be challenging for consumers to determine which supplements are truly effective and which ones are just marketing hype. As a supplement brand, one of the most effective ways to differentiate your product is by using clinical research to create product claims. In this blog post, we discuss the best practices for supplement companies using clinical research to create product claims.
Conduct robust clinical trials
The foundation of any strong product claim is a clinical trial. A well-designed clinical trial can provide valuable insights into the safety and efficacy of a supplement. As a supplement brand, you should ensure that your clinical trials are conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and are published in reputable journals. Additionally, it's essential to use appropriate statistical methods and sample sizes to ensure the validity of the results.
Use validated endpoints
A validated endpoint is a specific measurement used to evaluate the effectiveness of a supplement in clinical trials. Using validated endpoints can provide a more accurate picture of the supplement's efficacy and can help avoid misleading claims. For example, if a supplement claims to improve cognitive function, validated endpoints such as memory tests or reaction times should be used to demonstrate its effectiveness.
Be transparent about study design and results
Transparency is critical when it comes to creating product claims based on clinical research. You should be open about the study design, the statistical methods used, and any conflicts of interest that may have influenced the results. Additionally, you should provide a detailed summary of the study results and make them available to consumers.
Avoid overgeneralizing results
It's essential to avoid overgeneralizing the results of clinical trials when creating product claims. For example, if a supplement improves cognitive function in older adults, it doesn't necessarily mean it will have the same effect on younger adults. You should be clear about the population studied and the specific health benefits demonstrated in the clinical trial.
Consider the quality of the evidence
When using clinical research to create product claims, it's important to consider the quality of the evidence. Not all clinical trials are created equal, and some are more rigorous than others. You should focus on high-quality trials that have been published in reputable journals and have used appropriate statistical methods and sample sizes.
Avoid making disease claims
Supplements cannot claim to treat, cure, or prevent diseases without approval from regulatory authorities. Making disease claims without proper approval can result in legal action and damage to the brand's reputation. Instead, focus on making health claims that are supported by clinical research.
Follow regulatory guidelines
Supplement companies must follow regulatory guidelines when creating product claims based on clinical research. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates supplement claims, and companies must comply with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. The FDA has specific guidelines for structure/function claims and health claims, and supplement companies should ensure their claims comply with these regulations.
The FTC has also cracked down on product claims, mandating that brands must have some form of scientific research, such as a clinical trial or consumer perception study, to validate their claims.
Use language that is easy to understand
When creating product claims, it's important to use language that is easy for consumers to understand. Avoid using technical jargon and complex language that may confuse consumers. Instead, use clear and concise language that accurately reflects the results of the clinical trial.
Avoid exaggerating the results
Finally, it's important to avoid exaggerating the results of clinical trials when creating product claims. While it's tempting to make bold claims to attract customers, doing so can damage your brand's reputation and result in legal action. Stick to the facts and be honest about your supplement's benefits.
Wrapping Up
Overall, creating product claims based on clinical research requires a commitment to transparency, scientific rigor, and regulatory compliance. By conducting robust clinical trials, using validated endpoints, and being transparent about study design and results, supplement companies can build trust with consumers and differentiate their products from competitors. It's important to avoid overgeneralizing results, making disease claims, and exaggerating the benefits of the supplement. By following best practices and using language that is easy to understand, supplement companies can create product claims that are both accurate and effective, helping consumers make informed decisions about their health and wellness. Supplement brands that make truthful claims based on clinical research can build a loyal customer base and establish a reputation for quality and integrity in the health and wellness industry.
Want to create your own clinical trial?
Citruslabs provides a simple and affordable way to prove that your products actually work. At Citruslabs, we design a clinical trial that is right for you and your budget, so you can start sharing research-backed product claims without spending a fortune. We offer the cohesive planning and management required to conduct successful clinical trials, from start to finish. Ready to get started? Let's talk! You can contact us here.
Comments