How to reassure customers that dietary supplements are safe during the coronavirus crisis

With all the information and misinformation surrounding the coronavirus and COVID-19, consumers likely are confused about what's safe and what isn't.

Whether or not your customers and employees take supplements, the most important precautions to avoid coronavirus are to practice social distancing, cover coughs and sneezes, and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Of course, the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission are working together in an effort to stop fraudulent claims of cures or treatments. The warning letter reads, “There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescriptions or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure coronavirus disease 2019.”

Council for Responsible Nutrition releases FAQ about coronavirus and supplement safety

The CRN's website reports that multiple public health agencies have found that coronavirus is spread from person-to-person contact, so it's unlikely to be contract by consuming dietary supplements or handling any of the packaging. It also addresses concerns about workers' health, supply lines and manufacturing safety. To share this FAQ with your staff, click on the download button at the bottom of this page.

Related:How are retailers protecting their front-line employees during the coronavirus pandemic?

Runner's World looks at supplements that might boost immunity

While reinforcing suggest practices for avoiding coronavirus, Runner's World offers the National Institutes of Health recommendations for supplements that might support immunity, as well as what makes up a healthy diet. In addition, it offers advice on what complications can arise if consumers take too much of certain supplements.

From The New York Times: What not to do during the coronavirus pandemic

Health reporter Anahad O'Connor relays the advice of a registered dietician who has received a prodigious assortment of questions from clients. He also provides an overview of supplement sales and some of the evidence behind their efficacy.