Brazil Strengthens Oversight on Dietary Supplements Amid Health Concerns

On December 3, 2025, Brazil is intensifying its focus on the dietary supplement market through a parliamentary hearing and regulatory actions that address both potential health risks and benefits. The Chamber of Deputies, prompted by Deputy Ana Pimentel, convened a public hearing to discuss the rapid growth of dietary supplements and to foster a technical debate on needed regulations. Pimentel referred to a study from the Sociedade Brasileira de Endocrinologia e Metabologia revealing that over 50% of Brazilian households consume supplements often without medical or nutritional supervision. This lack of oversight may lead to serious health issues such as renal and hepatic overload, hormonal imbalances, and drug interactions, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly and chronically ill. Conversely, research from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais underscores that supplements, when used under professional guidance, can enhance muscle mass and vitality.

Complementing this legislative initiative, Brazil’s health regulatory agency, Anvisa, has moved decisively to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and distribution of certain unregistered and irregular supplements, effective since October 2. Notably, Anvisa seized Prosatril, Erenobis, and Óliver Turbo supplements for lacking registration and approval. Erenobis contains ora-pro-nóbis, a plant ingredient banned in supplements earlier this year for safety reasons due to insufficient evidence supporting its use.

These developments reflect Brazil’s increasing regulatory vigilance to safeguard public health while recognizing the potential benefits of supplements under professional oversight.