The Quality Guide for Food Supplements was put together by a team of experts for the the European Federation of Associations of Health Product Manufacturers (EHPM) to help companies meet EU criteria.

The guide could be used by both companies inside the bloc and outside groups looking to target the supplement market.

It covers all aspects of production across the European Union including manufacturing, quality control, packaging, distribution and storage.

There are also sections on meeting hygiene and safety standards and training for supplement handlers.

EHPM said since its release in November last year the guide has been distributed across Europe. Hundreds of requests for copies have been made from the European industry as well as the international sector, including companies in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Argentina and across South East Asia, EHPM said.

Chairman Peter van Doorn said: "We are delighted that our guide has proved so popular both within Europe and internationally.

"It is testament to the fact that the practices being initiated within the EU are being closely reviewed across the globe. We hope this guide will be a step towards achieving and maintaining a high and consistent level of quality for food supplements across the 27 countries of the EU."

Legislation maze

In Europe, rules regarding supplements have been the focus of major changes by the European Commission.

Legislation has covered a plethora of areas including what companies can claim a product can do. Tough new rules have also been put in place regarding food safety in the supply chain under the hygiene law regulation (EC) 854/2004.

This rule has had a big impact on omega-3 suppliers who have to meet tough health checks to avoid fish contamination with parasites or harmful substance

EHPM's guide has taken on board existing national guides that have been developed by the group's member associations over the past ten years to help ensure a common approach across the EU.

To access the guide click here .