The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) released the following statement in response to a June 28, 2020 ‘60 Minutes’ segment regarding probiotics:
“There is evidence that probiotics can provide health benefits. Clinical studies have shown which probiotics can support healthy digestive function. The recent 60 Minutes story misses the bigger picture — probiotics are an important part of general health maintenance for millions of Americans. While the research continues for disease specific applications, it does not negate the importance of probiotics as dietary supplements for everyday health and digestive wellness.
“The story focuses on probiotics as a category and neglects to point out that there are clinical studies on specific probiotics and probiotic strains demonstrating the health and wellness benefits. There have been hundreds of clinical trials on probiotics evaluating specific probiotics and probiotic strains for health benefits. Studies have suggested positive results in the use of specific probiotics supporting a healthy immune response as well as supporting specific gastrointestinal functional issues associated with antibiotic use, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While no one probiotic offers all the potential benefits, this body of evidence demonstrates that when properly selected and used, probiotics can help play an important role in health and wellness.
“Consumers can have the confidence in the selection and use of probiotics manufactured by CHPA member companies. Dietary supplements are regulated by FDA under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) which includes regulations for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to assure high standards and quality products. Consumers taking probiotics should read the Supplement Facts label, check the expiration date, and follow storage instructions.”
