Food supplements for children: what is allowed, what sells
The children's supplement market is growing, driven by gummies. It is also the most tightly regulated segment. Here are the authorised nutrients, the possible claims and the safety rules for launching a children's range with confidence.
- Food supplements for children are allowed, but the formula, dose and label must be designed for their age.
- A few claims specifically target children: vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.
- Vitamin D, omega-3 DHA, iron, iodine, calcium: these are the most widely used nutrients.
- Children love gummies, but they look like sweets: dosage, sugar, packaging and safety warnings are decisive.
- Some actives should be excluded or kept for adults (melatonin, stimulant plants, high doses).
A growing market under close scrutiny
Parents are looking for simple ways to complement their children's diet: vitamin D in winter, omega-3, iron for children who eat little meat. Gummies have made this market take off. But health authorities regularly point out the risks of overdosing and of confusion with sweets. A serious brand must therefore design its children's range rigorously.
Authorised claims for children
In Europe, some claims specifically concern children's growth and development:
- Vitamin D: is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.
- Calcium: is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.
- Iodine: contributes to the normal growth of children.
- Iron: contributes to normal cognitive development of children.
- Protein: is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.
General claims (tiredness, immune system, vision) can still be used if the content allows, with messaging tailored to parents.
The most widely used nutrients
What to avoid in a children's range
- Melatonin: reserved for adults in the recommendations of French health authorities.
- Stimulant plants or plants with hormonal effects, and extracts poorly documented in children.
- High doses: a child is not a small adult; doses are worked out by age group.
- “Sweet-style” marketing: visuals and flavours that encourage eating more than the dose.
Children's gummies: the safety rules
- a clear daily dose, stated as a number of gummies, with a warning not to exceed it;
- “Keep out of reach of young children”, clearly visible;
- child-resistant packaging;
- a stated age range, usually from 3 or 4 years;
- controlled sugar content, or recipes with no added sugar;
- natural flavourings and colourings.
Launch your children's range with Irati Production
We design and manufacture safe, tasty and compliant food supplements for children in France.
- Vegan pectin gummies, no-added-sugar options available
- Vitamin D, omega-3 DHA, multivitamin and iron formulas
- Doses adapted to each age group
- Labelling and claims checked by our regulatory team
- ISO 22000 certified site
Frequently asked questions
Are food supplements allowed for children?
Yes, provided the formula, dose and labelling are adapted to the child's age. It is advisable to seek the opinion of a healthcare professional.
Which vitamin should a child take in winter?
Vitamin D is the most common, as it is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children. The dosage should follow the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.
Are gummies suitable for children?
Yes, generally from 3 or 4 years, with a clear dose, controlled sugar content and child-resistant packaging.
Is melatonin allowed for children?
French health authorities recommend not using melatonin supplements in children without medical advice.
Does Irati Production make private label food supplements for children?
Yes, particularly gummies. Contact us to discuss your project.
This article is for information only and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Source: Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 and the regulations authorising claims referring to children's development and health.