To facilitate the study’s use, the 26 European and 13 non-European country chapters are all structured in the same way, allowing an in-depth comparison between markets around the globe. They cover Classification; Marketing authorisation; Patient information; Advertising to the general public; Trade names; Waste; Distribution; Distance selling; Pricing; Price build-up; Market data; Restrictions concerning imports; Switch climate; Pharmacy training and attitudes; Doctors’ training and attitudes; Relations with consumer associations/patient groups; Consumer attitudes/research; Other national developments; Electronic information; AESGP or WSMI member association.

The study provides an overview of the rules on food supplements as well as their classification in each of the EU Member States. It states the maximum levels of vitamins and minerals currently allowed in food supplements in each country. It also contains a compilation of national rules on herbal ingredients and other substances, as well as a comparison of the derogations granted with regard to the use of other vitamin and mineral sources not listed in the Annex to the food supplements Directive.

The study gets its full operability through the electronic version attached to the printed version, complemented by an interactive comparison of how maximum levels and herbal and other ingredients are regulated in the 27 EU Member States.