Supplement Safety & Legal Information

Your Complete Guide to Safe Supplement Use in Ireland & the EU

Last Updated: October 2025

Our Commitment: At Body Fuel Max, we're committed to transparency, safety, and compliance with all Irish and EU regulations. This page provides everything you need to know about using food supplements safely and legally.

"Foodstuffs the purpose of which is to supplement the normal diet and which are concentrated sources of nutrients or other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect, alone or in combination, marketed in dose form."

Age Restrictions

Most food supplements are intended for adults aged 18 years and over unless specifically formulated for children and clearly labelled as such.

Products NOT suitable for under 18s include:

• Products containing caffeine above 150mg per serving
• Adaptogenic herbs (e.g., Ashwagandha, Rhodiola)
• Testosterone-supporting supplements
• High-dose stimulant pre-workouts
• Weight loss supplements

When to Consult Your Doctor

You MUST consult your doctor or healthcare professional before taking food supplements if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have any existing medical conditions (especially kidney, liver, heart, thyroid, or autoimmune conditions)
• Are taking any prescription medications
• Have allergies or food intolerances
• Are scheduled for surgery (stop taking supplements 2 weeks prior)
• Are under 18 years of age
• Have a history of eating disorders

✅ DO:

• Read the label carefully before use
• Follow the recommended dosage instructions
• Store supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep supplements out of reach of children
• Check expiry dates before use
• Maintain a varied and balanced diet alongside supplementation
• Stay hydrated, especially when taking powdered supplements
• Report any adverse reactions to your doctor and the FSAI

❌ DON'T:

• Exceed the recommended daily dose
• Use supplements as a substitute for a varied diet
• Take supplements if the seal is broken or damaged
• Mix multiple supplements without professional advice
• Take supplements with alcohol
• Share your supplements with others
• Use supplements past their expiry date
• Assume supplements are suitable for everyone

💊 Adaptogenic Herbs (e.g., Ashwagandha)

Age: 18+ only

Warnings:

• Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women
• May interact with thyroid medications
• Should not be taken with sedatives, hypnotics, or anticonvulsants
• Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery

⚡ Caffeine-Containing Products

Age: 18+ for products containing >150mg caffeine per serving

Warnings:

• Not recommended for children, pregnant women, or those sensitive to caffeine
• Do not exceed 400mg caffeine per day from all sources
• May cause sleep disturbances if taken late in the day
• Can increase heart rate and blood pressure

🦴 Joint Support (Glucosamine/Chondroitin)

Warnings:

• Often derived from shellfish - not suitable for shellfish allergies
• May interact with blood-thinning medications (warfarin)
• Consult doctor if diabetic (glucosamine may affect blood sugar)

💪 Protein Supplements

Warnings:

• Whey protein contains milk - not suitable for dairy allergies or lactose intolerance
• High protein intake may not be suitable for those with kidney conditions
• Should be part of a balanced diet, not a meal replacement

1. Stop taking the supplement immediately
2. Seek medical attention if the reaction is severe
3. Report to FSAI:
   • Email: info@fsai.ie
   • Phone: +353 1 817 1300
   • Online: www.fsai.ie
4. Contact us: support@bodyfuelmax.com so we can investigate

Can I take multiple supplements together?

Generally yes, but always check for interactions. Some nutrients can affect the absorption of others. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional or contact us for advice.

How long does it take to see results?

This varies by product and individual. Some supplements (like caffeine) work immediately, whilst others (like joint support or adaptogens) may take 2-8 weeks of consistent use.

Are supplements tested for banned substances?

Our products are manufactured in certified facilities and tested for quality. However, if you're a competitive athlete subject to anti-doping rules, always check with your sport's governing body before taking any supplement.

Can I take supplements if I'm vegetarian/vegan?

Check individual product labels. Some capsules contain gelatine (animal-derived), whilst others use vegetarian alternatives. Product descriptions clearly state if products are suitable for vegetarians/vegans.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help you make informed decisions about supplementation.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation programme. This information is accurate as of October 2025 and is subject to change as regulations evolve.

Regulated by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) | Compliant with EU Directive 2002/46/EC