How to Read a Supplement Label: A 6-Step Checklist

In Türkiye, food supplements are regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. The information a label must carry is set out in legislation — but you need to know what each piece of information means.

When buying a product in a shop or online, you can go through the following in order.

The product's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry approval/registration number must appear on the label. This number shows that the product has been notified in line with the regulations.

If a product carries no such number, you cannot be sure it is being offered in Türkiye as a food supplement in the proper way.

How many capsules or scoops is the "daily portion"? Are the amounts on the label given per capsule, or for the whole daily portion?

This distinction is the point most often missed when comparing two products. In one product a 1000 mg daily portion may mean 3 capsules; in another it may be a single capsule.

"Magnesium" alone is not enough information; which compound it is given as matters. The same applies to zinc, iron and B12.

A good label states the form clearly: magnesium bisglycinate, zinc picolinate, methylcobalamin and so on.

Besides the active ingredients, the capsule shell, fillers, sweeteners and preservatives are also listed. The list is written in descending order of quantity.

Allergen warnings (soy, milk, gluten, tree nuts) are usually printed in bold. If you have a known sensitivity, do not skip this line.

Some forms are sensitive to light and moisture. If the label says something like "store in a cool, dry place, protected from light", follow it.

The best-before date and the production/batch number must also be on the label. The batch number allows the product to be traced if a problem arises.

The manufacturer's name and address, and for imported products the importer's details, must appear clearly on the label. Staying away from products with no contact details is a sensible choice.

A statement that production takes place under a quality system such as GMP is a further sign of trust.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. They are not intended to prevent or treat any disease. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a chronic condition, consult your physician before use. Do not exceed the recommended daily portion.