How to Read a Children’s Supplement Facts Label

A Supplement Facts panel is easier to interpret when you read it in a consistent order. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires dietary supplement labels to identify serving information and list dietary ingredients in a standardized format.

1. Start with Serving Size

The nutrient amounts on the panel correspond to the stated serving. For a children’s product, also check the age directions because one serving may differ by age group.

2. Read Amount Per Serving

This is the actual amount of each listed dietary ingredient delivered by the stated serving. Units may include milligrams (mg), micrograms (mcg) or other required units.

3. Use % Daily Value as a reference

Percent Daily Value (%DV) shows how much a nutrient in one serving contributes relative to the FDA Daily Value used for labeling. It is a reference value for interpreting a label, not an individualized prescription for every child.

4. Check ingredient form and Other Ingredients

The Supplement Facts panel may identify a nutrient’s source or form, while the separate Other Ingredients list identifies ingredients such as flavors, carriers, sweeteners or processing aids that are not listed as dietary ingredients in the panel.

5. Read directions and warnings

Serving directions, age range, storage instructions and warnings are part of the full product label. When comparing products, compare the complete labeled serving rather than a single number in isolation.

Educational information only. Label information should be interpreted together with the child’s age, diet, health history and other supplements or medications.