FSS and the FSA issue guidance on caffeine in food supplements

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) have issued guidance on caffeine in supplements to promote the safe consumption and manufacturing of food supplements containing high levels of caffeine.

FSS and FSA are advising consumers to be mindful of caffeine intake when using food supplements. Supplements with caffeine should be calculated alongside other sources of caffeine, such as coffee, tea and energy drinks, as caffeine intakes of up to 400mg per day are unlikely to cause adverse effects in adults. A limit of 200mg per day is recommended for those who are pregnant.

The guidance has been created following a case in the UK where a man died after miscalculating the amount of caffeine powder he was meant to use. The dose he took was the equivalent of up to 200 cups of coffee. A survey was also conducted which showed less than half of people surveyed look for dosage instructions on supplements, with 20% saying they don’t read the label. Research into consumer attitudes towards supplements also revealed that many consumers have limited or no knowledge of caffeine in food supplements.

FSS and the FSA have worked with other government departments with a remit for supplements to summarise existing information for consumers and businesses and publish online so that it is easier to access.

At very high levels, caffeine can cause anxiety, sleeplessness, agitation, palpitations, diarrhoea and restlessness. Individuals with a mental health condition can experience worsened psychosis. These effects may be more severe in individuals who are caffeine sensitive, or who have underlying health issues such as heart disease or high blood pressure.

Garry Mournian, Head of Policy and Regulatory Affairs at FSS, said:

“Caffeine is naturally present in many foods, but we have found that people may not be aware of the higher caffeine content in some supplements, which can pose health risks. Products like caffeine powder and highly concentrated caffeine supplements can be particularly potent. It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions on the label and use precise measuring tools.

"If individuals experience side effects from caffeine, such as insomnia or restlessness, they should consider their caffeine intake from supplements alongside other dietary sources. We also advise pregnant women to limit their daily caffeine consumption to 200mg - about two mugs of instant coffee or one mug of filter coffee - and to check product labels for warnings indicating that certain supplements may not be suitable.

"We want to remind businesses of their obligation to provide safe food products and adhere to labelling and composition standards, ensuring that consumers have the information they need to make informed dietary choices."

Caffeine added to food supplements can often include much higher levels of caffeine, particularly pure caffeine powder, than you would find in other products, such as coffee or some energy drinks.

Businesses who manufacture supplements are also being reminded of labelling and composition requirements, such as warnings on higher dose caffeine products that these products are not recommended for children or pregnant women.

Our advice to consumers and advice to businesses is available on our website.