Challenge Herbal Weight Loss Supplements (WLS) are widely thought to be safe due to their natural origins. In Australia, manufacturers are not required to supply evidence of safety, efficacy or quality for their supplements prior to being permitted to enter the market. For this reason, whether weight loss products available on the Australian market are of appropriate quality is not yet completely understood.
Solution This PhD research aims to assess the quality and safety of Australian WLS prior to efficacy study in clinical trials. Initially, analyses and quantification of the chemical composition were conducted in the collected supplements.
Impact This research provided key evidence that highlights several issues with current approaches to herbal and dietary supplement regulation to improve consumer safety.
