I have a great opportunity to import some bodybuilding supplements from Italy to the UK. Are there any restrictions or legal issues I should be aware of?

If the products contain any synthetic ingredients, your supplements could be branded as a drug and are subject to some additional regulations. If the ingredients are all natural, then the supplements are considered a food. I will try to cover both for you.

For supplements with synthetic ingredients (subject to “drug” or “medicine” categorization):

• Medicines require a license, also known as a marketing authorisation, in order to manufacture and distribute the product. Your manufacturer should be able to provide the proof of license.

• Any product that proclaims to cure, prevent or treat a disease are considered medicines.

• The Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) would be the place to contact for authorisations or licenses MHRA

For supplements with all natural or herbal ingredients (subject to “food” categorization):

• Proper labelling is required as specified in the Food Labelling Regulations, Trade Descriptions Act, and the Food Safety Act.

• All ingredients must be listed as part of the labelling.

• All foods must be considered safe for consumption.

• Cannot be falsely or misleadingly labelled.

Hopefully this information will help you.

Yes it does help – thank you.