Latest consumer survey from CRN shows highest overall supplement usage to date

Photo © Shutterstock.com/bixstock

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) has released results of its 20th Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements, revealing the highest overall dietary supplement usage to date. According to the survey, 77% of American adults report consuming dietary supplements. Adults between the ages of 35 and 54 have the highest usage at 81%, though adults above the age of 55 are not far behind at 79%. More women take dietary supplements (79%), compared to men (74%), and a majority (83%) of surveyed adults with children under the age of 18 take dietary supplements.

The most popular dietary supplements remain vitamins and minerals, with 76% of surveyed adults having taken such products in the previous 12 months, followed by specialty supplements (40%), herbs and botanicals (39%), sports nutrition products (28%), and weight management supplements (17%).

“While the industry continues to innovate, there is no denying that these regulated products have become mainstream. More than three quarters of Americans are taking dietary supplements each year-a crystal clear trend that serves as an indicator of the vital role supplementation plays in their overall health and wellness regimens,” said Nancy Weindruch, vice president, communications for CRN, in a press release. “As always, we cannot rest on our laurels. Our survey demonstrates that supplement users have evolving preferences and needs.”

CRN will release more findings later in the year, including new statistics on the usage of CBD, nootropics, e-commerce habits, and delivery format preferences.