According to DSHEA, a dietary supplement is a product (other than tobacco) that

• is intended to supplement the diet;
• contains one or more dietary ingredients (including vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and other substances) or their constituents;
• is intended to be taken by mouth as a pill, capsule, tablet, or liquid; and,
• is labeled on the front panel as being a dietary supplement.

Why this matters:

Many customers who shop in health food stores ask store staff for information about nutritional products.  It is important that store staff understand what they are allowed to say and what they should not say to customers under the law.  Store staff may use information on a product label and in manufacturer education materials because that information is regulated and the manufacturer is responsible for the accuracy of the information.  Store staff should never make any statements giving customers the impression that any dietary products will treat or cure or prevent any illness or disease.