1 An estimated 50 percent of adults in the United States report that they consume dietary supplements on a regular basis. Some of these supplements contain caffeine—even if it is not listed on the label as an ingredient
2 In the United States, dietary supplements that contain a propriety blend of herbs that may contain caffeine are not required to disclose the amount of caffeine, only the identity of the herbs. If caffeine in its pure form is added to a product, however, there is a requirement to add the word “caffeine” to the label’s ingredient listing.
3 Now, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists in Beltsville have analyzed a number of caffeine - containing products. Dietary supplements--predominantly weight - loss and sports - nutrition products listed containing complex mixtures of botanicals on the label -- were chosen for analysis from multiple channels. The study shows that approximately half of the tested products contained the caffeine equivalent of up to two cups of coffee per day. Therefore, it’s important for consumers to check the labels of supplements for caffeine-containing botanical ingredients.