ADULTERATION IN DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS: CURRENT TRENDS, ANALYTICAL CHALLENGES, AND REGULATION IN INDIA

Adulteration of dietary supplements remains a significant global concern, driven primarily by economic incentives, insufficient regulatory oversight, and the rapid expansion of online and e-commerce markets. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of current adulteration trends, associated public-health risks, and emerging analytical approaches for detection. Challenges in identifying adulterants arise from the complex composition of supplement matrices, sample-preparation limitations, and variability in method validation across laboratories. Advances in chromatographic, spectroscopic, electrochemical, and mass spectrometry-based techniques supported by chemometrics, green analytical chemistry, and artificial intelligence have greatly enhanced the sensitivity and reliability of adulteration detection; however, their routine implementation is still limited. A comparative evaluation of global regulatory frameworks, including the FDA (USA) and EFSA (EU), alongside the Indian regulatory scenario involving FSSAI, CDSCO, and AYUSH, highlights critical gaps in surveillance and enforcement. Evidence from adverse-event reports, case studies, and WADA/NADA contamination incidents underscores the urgent need for stronger regulation, improved testing of high-risk products, and increased accountability of online marketplaces. Future progress depends on harmonized global standards, rapid screening technologies, and sustained public-awareness initiatives to ensure safe and authentic dietary supplement use.