How to Start a Dietary Supplement: From Concept to Product

The short answer

Begin with a brief defining the intended user, format, target price and the limits of proposed claims. Confirm the likely SFDA route, then develop the formulation and specifications and evaluate the factory and pack before preparing data for Ghad or the platform specified by SFDA.

Three actions to take

  • Place a decision gate after each stage before funding the next.
  • Build the schedule from documents and tests, not only a campaign date.
  • Allow for questions and change without promising an acceptance date.

1. Product brief and classification

Define the commercial problem, intended user, dosage form, pack and price, then test whether the description and ingredients actually point to the food supplement route.

  • Write what the product will do and what it will not claim.
  • Record the classification question, source and date.

2. Development, factory and pack

Turn the concept into a formulation, specification and sample, then compare factories, MOQ, tests, stability and packaging availability.

  • Approve a reference sample and acceptance specification.
  • Test pack compatibility and readability of instructions and serving.

3. File and launch

Reconcile artwork, specifications, analyses, certificates and establishment data before entry. Keep the launch plan responsive to actual readiness.

  • Use an index showing every document status and version.
  • Separate registration, marketing and inventory budgets.

Need to apply this to your facility?

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