Vista Label’s Guide to Impactful Supplement Labels

Understanding UK Food Supplement Labelling Regulations

In the UK, food supplements are governed by specific labelling requirements outlined in the Food Supplements (England) Regulations 2003, along with corresponding regulations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. According to these regulations, supplement labels must provide the following information:

Product Identification

Food supplements must be labelled "food supplements" before being sold to consumers or catering establishments.

Core Points

Each product must include:

• The category name of vitamins, minerals, or other active substances it contains.
• Recommended daily portion size.
• Warning against exceeding the recommended daily dosage.
• This statement emphasises that supplements do not substitute for a balanced diet.
• Advice to store products out of the reach of children.
• Amounts of vitamins, minerals, or active substances present.

Nutrition Information and Organic Products

Although exempt from the Nutrition Labelling Directive, UK regulations mandate that supplements containing vitamins and minerals must disclose the amount of each nutrient per serving, accompanied by the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) percentage as per Commission Directive 2008/100/EC Annex. For organic products, you must be registered with a recognised body that deals with the control of organic manufacturing. You can find more detailed information from DEFRA about the rules for advertising organic products.

Understanding and complying with these regulatory standards is crucial for manufacturers and retailers because it means consumers can make clear choices about the supplements they purchase and earn trust from your brand and products.

How Can You Make Eye-Catching Labels?

Research

A quick search of "dietary supplements" online will bring up endless lists of vitamin and supplement label designs. Some will appear forceful and bold, particularly bodybuilder-focused protein powders and other pre- and post-workout supplements. Others, especially vitamin labels, will have images of fruits, vegetables, and other things that help consumers think about their health and well-being. Of course, some will showcase the timeless, recognisable style of a well-known and beloved brand. These brands already have a good reputation, which they leverage to their advantage.

Define

The first question you need to ask yourself is, who are you trying to reach? Do you market a supplement that increases muscle or improves performance? If so, your primary audience is goal-oriented consumers looking to achieve a specific objective. Alternatively, if your supplements are vitamin-based, you will target consumers with nutritional deficiencies and need to present your product as a necessary solution. Either way, you need to be clear on who you are targeting to get a clear understanding of the demographic.

Design

In a competitive supplement market, standout label design captures attention and builds consumer trust. Start with eye-catching visuals that reflect your product’s identity and values to give your brand the wow factor. Ensure all information is straightforward and easy to read because consumers want to understand what they’re buying quickly. Highlight any health claims, but be sure they’re backed by credible science to add authenticity. Today’s shoppers also look closely at the quality and purity of ingredients, so make this front and centre on your label. And don’t forget about certifications—whether it’s organic, non-GMO, or other recognisable approvals, these logos help reinforce trust and reassure customers they’re making a safe, high-quality choice.

Materials and Finishes for Supplement Labels

At Vista Labels, we offer a great variety of materials and finishes that perfectly suit food supplement products, whether you're labelling bottles, jars, or drinks. Paper is a go-to choice for everyday supplement packaging, while Polypropylene (PP) is a durable, flexible option that works well for pill bottles and liquid formulas. If your product is stored in cool or damp environments, like health drinks, Polyethene (PE) is a smart pick. Need to include a bit more information without cluttering the design? Double-sided labels and peel-and-reveal options let you add serving instructions, ingredients, or other details neatly and engagingly. And if you're aiming for a more premium look and feel, features like embossing and raised or textured varnishes add that extra layer of quality and texture to your packaging.

No Job Too Small

At Vista Labels, we’re passionate about supporting businesses of all sizes, from industry giants to startups just getting off the ground. One of the things our customers appreciate most is our flexibility. Whether you need a short run of 500 labels or something on a much larger scale, we’ve got the tools and know-how to make it happen. We love helping new brands bring their vision to life, and we’re here to make sure your labels reflect your goals, no matter where you are on your journey.

For the Best Label Printer Near You- Count on Vista Labels

With over 50 years of experience working alongside the healthcare and lifestyle sectors (and more than two decades dedicated to the vitamins and supplements industry), Vista Labels truly understands what it takes to make your products shine. Our team knows this industry inside and out, and we’re here to help you create labels that look great and tick all the right boxes regarding compliance. Using the latest flexographic and digital printing technology, we produce high-quality labels tailored to your brand and your market. Trusted by prominent names like Holland & Barrett, we’re proud to be a partner that supplement brands can count on for impact, quality, and complete peace of mind.