Vitamins: Issues of definition and regulation

Abstract

The term vitamin is scientifically inaccurate and furthermore, there appears to be a need for a contemporary definition of a vitamin. In addition, there is powerful evidence that the intake of certain vitamin supplements confers an increased risk of premature mortality. A regulatory and licensing framework therefore appears to be required in the interests of public protection. The Cochrane Collaboration, an evidenced based organisation, might have a lead role in taking these important matters forward.