CRN Study Looks Good for Supplements, Vitamin D

Sales of dietary supplements are looking up, according to results from a recent survey conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs (New York City) on behalf of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC).

Ipsos polled a national sample of 1989 adults 18 years or older and found that consumer interest and confidence in supplements remains steady.

The percentage of consumers who identify themselves as “supplement users” rose one point (from 65% in 2009 to 66% in 2010); of that population, those who consider themselves “regular users” was gauged at 74%, another one-point increase from the previous year’s poll.

Consumer confidence in the safety of their dietary supplements also remained strong with 82% of those polled indicating a favorable confidence in the safety, quality, and effectiveness of dietary supplements.

The big push in this year’s CRN consumer survey came from growing support for vitamin D. Twenty-seven percent of supplement users claimed to take vitamin D supplements compared to only 19% and 16% in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

“The ever-growing body of research on the benefits of vitamin D has been widely circulated in scientific journals, among healthcare practitioners and within popular press, so it’s no surprise that we are seeing more consumers adding it to their existing supplement routines,” said Judy Blatman, CRN senior vice president of communications.  “Given that optimal levels of vitamin D are difficult to get from diet and adequate sun exposure alone, a vitamin D supplement is the right option for many people.”

To read CRN’s official press release, click here.