Melatonin makers asked to act after rise in accidental ingestion by kids

Melatonin manufacturers are under pressure to take action after an increase in cases of accidental ingestion by children.

Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), an industry association for Manufacturers and suppliers of raw materials for nutritional supplements and functional foods; Announced in Monday’s press release “Adoption of two new voluntary guidelines,” one of which covers “formulation, labeling, and packaging of melatonin-containing dietary supplements,” and the other covers “labeling of gummy dietary supplements.” It is said that

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found in recent data that the number of children under 5 who visited the emergency room for taking melatonin without supervision increased by 420% from 2009 to 2020. . Melatonin is sold as a dietary supplement, so it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

According to a press release, the latest guidelines on melatonin supplements include a “call” for the adoption of “child-deterrent packaging for products containing melatonin in flavored, chewable forms that may be particularly appealing to children.” It is said that there is CRN is asking its members to develop new guidelines for melatonin supplements within 18 months.

Regarding dietary supplement gummies, CRN provides members with a detailed review of products intended for both adults and children that includes special considerations for gummy supplements for infants and emphasizes the importance of their use. It calls for measures such as the creation of “Labeling Recommendations.” According to the press release, the products will be provided under appropriate conditions and guidance. CRN is asking its members to develop new guidelines for gummy dietary supplements within 24 months.

“These are just the latest in a series of voluntary guidelines adopted by CRN members that highlight CRN’s unwavering commitment to consumer well-being and the health of the nutraceutical market,” said CRN President and Chief Executive Officer CEO Steve Mister said in a release. “By setting these high standards, we help our members deliver products that are manufactured and sold responsibly and are widely trusted by consumers.”