CRN issues the following statement in response to the January 9, 2026 Freakonomics Radio episode, “This Is Your Brain on Supplements” (Episode 658), hosted by Stephen J. Dubner as part of The Freakonomics Radio Guide to Getting Better:
Mainstream dietary supplements—including vitamins, minerals, probiotics, proteins and amino acids, traditional herbal products, enzymes, and similar offerings—are the products most consumers purchase at major drugstores, grocery stores, and vitamin retailers. These supplements have a long, well-established record of safety and an equally robust body of evidence
Yes, enterprising and reckless purchasers can find products masquerading as “dietary supplements” in the dark corners of the internet, but those are not the products safely consumed by nearly three-quarters of Americans that contribute to their better health every day. If they contain ingredients not recognized for use in supplements, contaminants, false or misleading claims, or noncompliant labeling, they are already illegal, and FDA has ample authority and enforcement tools to address them. That’s why it’s important to clarify that the dietary supplement marketplace—particularly the brain health category—is far more diverse than the Freakonomics episode’s broad characterization suggests, and should not be targeted with sweeping statements that mislead listeners.
Dietary supplements are not a monolith, and not all products—or ingredients—are created equal. Meaningful differences exist among formulations with respect to ingredient quality, manufacturing practices, dosage integrity, and the depth of scientific evidence supporting individual nutrients. Broad critiques risk obscuring these distinctions and may unintentionally mislead consumers about responsible products and manufacturers.
Fortunately, consumers have the benefit of comprehensive FDA requirements for supplements (covering everything from labeling and packaging to production records and material specifications), quality seals like NSF and USP, retailers who carefully curate their offerings, and the strength of the commitment from brands themselves to underscore the value of dietary supplements in maintaining good health.
CRN’s member companies are committed to integrity in labeling and advertising, compliance with FDA and FTC requirements, and clear communication regarding both the appropriate use of supplements and their limitations. These companies have long supported strong regulatory oversight, transparency, and continued scientific research into dietary supplements, including those marketed for cognitive and brain health.
CRN welcomes rigorous discussion and continued examination of this category, including conversations prompted by episodes such as Freakonomics Radio’s “This Is Your Brain on Supplements.” We believe the most constructive dialogue is nuanced, evidence-based, and acknowledges both the limitations of supplements and the legitimate role that responsibly manufactured products can play in supporting overall health.
