The latest Consumerlab press release lists 16 brands of valerian supplements under the heading "10 supplements FAILED our test. Which of the brands below passed and which failed?" Here are the 16 brands that are named in the press release: 21st Century, Aboca, Alluna Sleep (Enzymatic Therapy), Bioforce, Eclectic Institute, Gaia Herbs, Kroger, Nature's Answer, Nature's Apothecary, Nature's Valley, Nature's Way, Pharmanex, Shaklee, Swiss Natural Sources, Thompson, Vitamin World. Though I've blogged about it before, once again here are some issues to consider:

1. Consumerlab reports that one of the products tested contained lead and two of the products contained cadmium. I question the ethical position of knowing that a product on store shelves contains these substances yet refusing to name the product unless consumers pay for the information.

2. It seems a bit heavy handed to list the names of companies whose products passed beneath a heading like the one quoted above. Heavy handed is the term I chose, but you may substitute your own.

3. Until industry creates, funds and delivers a meaningful product testing program, Consumerlab will continue with these questionable practices.

According to Consumerlab, upcoming reviews (their word) will target "DHEA, probiotics, CoQ10 multivitamins, zinc and more!"

User Comments !

Great post, Jon.  I just read their "press release" about the valerian study.  I love your "tests valeian and my patience" headline - my sentiments exactly...

Posted by: Andrew | August 22 2006 11:17:08