
Among other things, they will require the strength of vitamin A, D and E to be listed as a metric measure (e.g., milligrams or micrograms).
New dietary supplement labeling requirements from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) will go into full effect by January 2021. Starting in 2021, the International Unit will no longer be the only strength listed on vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D: One International Unit (IU) equals 0.025 mcg of cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) or of ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2). Vitamin E: One International Unit (IU) equals 0.67 mg of d-alpha-tocopherol or 0.9 mg of dl-alpha-tocopherol. Vitamin A: One International Unit (IU) equals 0.3 mcg of retinol or 0.6 mcg of beta-carotene. International Units are used to standardize different forms of the same substance, making them easier to compare. Here is a vitamin D product manufactured by Nature Made that is labeled as 1000 International Units: The International Unit (IU), which refers to the "biological activity" of a drug or substance, is the most common way in which the strength of Vitamin D is listed, or at least it historically has been. In 2017 alone, supplemental Vitamin D accounted for $937 million in sales!Ī common source of confusion is how the strength of Vitamin D is listed on the supplement label. Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin naturally produced in the skin in response to sunlight, is also one of the most purchased over the counter (OTC) supplements.