Understanding European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Guidelines

Synthetic fibers are common in many packaged foods and supplements in the United States. However, Europe is more cautious, with the safety of synthetic fibers remaining under scrutiny. Ovvia® refers to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidelines as the FDA is still updating its regulations.

Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers

Natural fibers originate from whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole...

Supplements aren't safe; they're more dangerous than prescription medications

Unfortunately, it's true! Supplements are more dangerous than medications because of labeling loopholes. Unlike prescription drugs, the FDA does not have the authority to approve dietary supplements for the safety and effectiveness of the labeling before they are sold in stores or online. This means manufacturers have a loophole to take liberties with the label and the content in the bottle. And when...

"Congressman's Wife Died After Taking Herbal Remedy Marketed for Diabetes & Weight Loss" is the headline from CBS News, and it also caught my eye when it was reported by the NY Times. These reports caused me to ask the question, "How safe are supplements?" 

Warnings Issued by the FDA

"White Mulberry Leaf" was the cause of death for the Congressman's wife. She took it as a supplement, either taken in the form of a capsule or tea. Either way, it wasn't previously considered dangerous,...