USP provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) for anyone seeking information regarding USP Verification.
Who is USP?
For over 200 years, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) has protected public health by developing quality standards for medicines, dietary supplements, and foods. As an independent, scientific nonprofit, USP verifies the quality of dietary supplement products. USP does not make or sell vitamins or other dietary supplements.
What are USP Verified dietary supplements?
The distinctive USP Verified Mark is awarded by USP to dietary supplement products that successfully meet rigorous requirements for quality. When you see the USP Verified Mark on a dietary supplement label, it means the product:
- Contains the ingredients listed on the label in the declared strength and amounts
- Does not contain harmful levels of specified contaminants, such as heavy metals and pesticides
- Complies with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices, using sanitary and well-controlled processes
- Will break down and dissolve within a specified amount of time so the dietary ingredients can be released and absorbed by the body
Upon meeting the requirements of USP’s Dietary Supplement Verification Program, a manufacturer's product is awarded the use of the USP Verified Mark. If you find a product with a USP Verified Mark that appears damaged, counterfeit or has an illegible label, please contact the product’s manufacturer directly regarding any questions or comments.
How do I know if a certain dietary supplement product is USP Verified?
Check for the USP Verified Mark on a product label. It is the quickest way to confirm if a vitamin or other dietary supplement is USP Verified. Additionally, you may view a list of USP Verified products here.
How do I know if the ingredients in a supplement are natural or organic?
USP does not verify if the ingredients in a product are natural or organic.
What are the steps in the USP Verification process?
The verification process starts with an inspection of manufacturing facilities. The next step is a review of documentation to determine where ingredients are sourced, the manufacturing process, what methods are used for testing both the ingredients and final products, and whether those methods are appropriate for the product. For example, USP determines whether the tests can detect and measure harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microbes. The final step is testing the products using appropriate scientifically validated methods.
How can I get my supplement USP Verified?
To learn more about USP's Dietary Supplement Verification Program, please click here or contact USPVerified@usp.org.