Scientists are getting better at testing dietary supplements and herbal products to make sure they contain what’s on the label. This research looks at new and improved methods that can detect both expected and unexpected ingredients in supplements. Think of it like a quality control checkpoint—these advanced testing techniques help protect consumers by catching products that might be mislabeled, contaminated, or contain harmful substances. The study reviews both traditional testing methods and cutting-edge technology that can identify thousands of different compounds in a single sample, making it easier for companies and regulators to ensure supplement safety and quality.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Different ways scientists can test dietary supplements and herbal products to verify they contain the ingredients listed on the label and don’t have harmful contaminants
  • Who participated: This is a review article that examines existing testing methods rather than a study with human participants. It focuses on laboratory techniques used by supplement manufacturers, regulators, and quality control experts
  • Key finding: Advanced testing methods—both traditional and newer technology-based approaches—can now detect a wide range of ingredients and contaminants in supplements more accurately and efficiently than older methods
  • What it means for you: Better testing methods mean the supplements you buy are more likely to actually contain what the label says. However, not all manufacturers use these advanced tests, so quality can still vary between brands. Look for products tested by third-party organizations for added assurance

The Research Details

This is a review article, which means researchers examined and summarized existing scientific literature about supplement testing methods rather than conducting their own experiment. They looked at both traditional testing approaches that have been used for years and newer, more advanced techniques that are becoming available. The researchers compared different methods to understand their strengths and weaknesses, including how well they can identify specific ingredients and detect contaminants or adulterants (unwanted substances added to products).

The review covers two main categories of testing: targeted methods that look for specific known ingredients, and non-targeted methods that can scan for thousands of unknown substances at once. This is important because some supplements are intentionally mislabeled or accidentally contaminated with unexpected ingredients, and different testing approaches catch different problems.

Understanding different testing methods matters because supplement quality directly affects your health and safety. Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements don’t require the same strict testing before they’re sold. This means quality control happens after products are already on shelves. Better testing methods help catch problems like: products that don’t contain the claimed ingredients, supplements contaminated with heavy metals or pesticides, or products that have been mixed with prescription drugs without being labeled. Knowing what testing methods exist helps consumers understand what to look for when choosing supplements.

This is a review article published in the Journal of AOAC International, which is a respected scientific journal focused on analytical chemistry and testing methods. Review articles are valuable for summarizing what scientists currently know, but they don’t provide new experimental data. The reliability of the conclusions depends on the quality of the studies being reviewed. Since this focuses on established testing methods used by regulatory agencies and major manufacturers, the information is generally trustworthy, though new testing technologies continue to emerge

What the Results Show

The research identifies two main approaches to supplement testing. Targeted methods focus on finding specific ingredients that should be in a product—like checking for the exact amount of vitamin C or herbal extract listed on the label. These methods are reliable and precise but only check for what you’re specifically looking for. Non-targeted methods use advanced technology to scan for thousands of different compounds at once, like taking a complete fingerprint of everything in a supplement. This approach can catch unexpected ingredients, contaminants, or mislabeling that targeted methods might miss.

The review shows that modern technology has made testing faster and more accurate. Advanced techniques can now identify very small amounts of contaminants and can process multiple samples quickly. This means manufacturers and regulatory agencies can test more products more thoroughly than they could with older methods. The combination of both targeted and non-targeted approaches provides the most complete quality assurance—targeted methods verify that claimed ingredients are present in the right amounts, while non-targeted methods catch anything unexpected or harmful.

The research also discusses practical considerations for implementing these testing methods. Advanced equipment is expensive, which means smaller manufacturers might not use the most sophisticated testing. The review highlights that standardization is important—when everyone uses the same testing methods and standards, it’s easier to compare products and ensure consistency. Additionally, the research notes that testing methods continue to improve as technology advances, so what’s considered best practice today may be improved tomorrow. The review emphasizes that no single test catches everything, which is why using multiple testing approaches provides better protection for consumers.

Testing methods for supplements have evolved significantly over the past two decades. Older methods could only test for a few specific ingredients at a time and took longer to produce results. The advances described in this review represent a major improvement in speed, accuracy, and comprehensiveness. Previous research established the need for better testing, and this review documents how the field has responded with new technologies. These advances align with growing regulatory pressure to ensure supplement quality, particularly from agencies like the FDA that oversee supplement safety. The research shows that the supplement industry is moving toward more rigorous quality standards, though implementation varies widely.

This is a review article rather than original research, so it summarizes what others have found rather than testing supplements directly. The effectiveness of these testing methods depends on whether manufacturers actually use them—the review doesn’t assess how many companies currently employ advanced testing. Additionally, new testing technologies are constantly being developed, so some information may become outdated. The review focuses on technical testing methods but doesn’t address economic barriers that might prevent smaller manufacturers from using the most advanced approaches. Finally, testing can verify what’s in a supplement but can’t determine whether the supplement actually works as claimed—that requires separate clinical research

The Bottom Line

If you take dietary supplements, look for products from manufacturers that use third-party testing (companies like NSF, USP, or ConsumerLab that independently verify supplements). Check the label for testing certifications. When possible, choose supplements from larger, established manufacturers who are more likely to use advanced quality testing. If you’re concerned about a specific supplement’s quality, research the manufacturer’s testing practices. These recommendations are supported by strong evidence that better testing methods improve product quality and safety.

Anyone who takes dietary supplements, herbal products, or botanical supplements should care about testing quality. This is especially important for people taking supplements for serious health conditions, pregnant women, children, and people taking multiple medications (since supplements can interact with drugs). Healthcare providers should be aware of these testing advances when counseling patients about supplement quality. Supplement manufacturers and retailers benefit from understanding these methods to ensure they’re selling safe products. Regulatory agencies use this information to set standards and conduct inspections.

Improved testing methods don’t directly affect how quickly a supplement works in your body—that depends on the supplement itself. However, better testing means you can have more confidence in the product’s quality starting immediately when you purchase it. If you’re switching to a tested brand, you might notice consistency improvements over weeks to months as you continue using the product. The real benefit is long-term peace of mind knowing your supplements are more likely to be safe and contain what’s claimed

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track which supplement brands you use and note their third-party testing certifications (NSF, USP, ConsumerLab, etc.). Create a simple log with: supplement name, brand, claimed ingredients, testing certification status, and date purchased. This helps you identify which products meet quality standards and allows you to spot any changes if you switch brands
  • Research your current supplement brands using the app to check if they have third-party testing certifications. Set a reminder to review your supplement cabinet quarterly and replace products from untested manufacturers with certified alternatives. Use the app to store photos of supplement labels and testing certifications for easy reference when shopping
  • Maintain a long-term log of supplement brands and their testing status. When you purchase a new supplement, add it to your app with its certification information. Set annual reminders to verify that your preferred brands still maintain their testing certifications, as companies sometimes change their quality practices. Track any changes in how you feel after switching to tested brands, noting improvements in consistency or effectiveness

This article reviews scientific methods for testing dietary supplements but does not provide medical advice. Dietary supplements are not regulated as strictly as prescription medications and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before starting any new supplement, consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions, take medications, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. While better testing methods improve product quality, they cannot guarantee that a supplement will be effective for your specific health needs. Always discuss supplement use with your doctor to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual situation.