Economy May Impact Supplement Purchases

WASHINGTON—While just over half of consumers indicate the challenging economic climate won’t impact their dietary supplement purchasing habits, price may become a more important consideration, according to a new survey. Results released by the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) of a survey conducted by Ipsos-Public Affairs found 51 percent of supplement users said the economy wouldn’t impact their supplement purchasing habits; 13 percent of those said the products are a critical part of their wellness practices.

Although results of the 2008 CRN Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements showed most supplement consumers don’t plan on cutting back on their supplement routine, some may alter their purchasing habits. Nearly a third (30 percent) of survey respondents indicated that, while they will continue to purchase dietary supplements, price will become a more important factor in the purchasing process. Further, an additional 13 percent responded that, given the potential downturn in the economy, they will continue to purchase, but will likely purchase less in the future. Finally, 6 percent of supplement users said they consider dietary supplements a luxury and believe they can do without them during economic hardships.