1. % Daily Value or % DV. A simplification of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) created by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it does not take into account age or gender, which the RDA does. If the % DV is 50, you get half the FDA recommended daily dosage of that supplement in one serving.
2. Serving size: Tells how many tablets, or teaspoons or whatever of the serving to get the Daily Value listed on the label. If you don't know the serving size, the percentage is useless.
3. Scientific units like I.U. or mg are different ways of measuring amounts of vitamins and minerals in each tablet or soft gel. I.U. measures fat-soluble vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, D and E. Water solubles are measured in milligrams (mg) and micrograms (mcg).
4. Necessary nutrients without Daily Values, such as boron and nickel, for which the Institute of Medicine has not yet established guidelines.
5. Hotline and Web site for more information. Many companies provide the information to answer consumer questions. Some experts believe companies that offer that kind of access are also more scrupulous about the nutritional values they list.
6. Expiration dates let consumers know how long the contents will be effective. After that date, the Daily Values listed may not be valid as the products deteriorate.
7. Lot number is important for tracking the supplement's history in case there are specific questions about that product. It can be very important in a product recall.
8. Suggested use information helps consumers safely and accurately obtian the % DV and offers instructions, such as when the product should be taken and at what temperature it should be stored.
9. Warnings alert consumers about potential adverse effects. For instance, pregnant women may be told not to use a product, or it can offer information on possible interactions.
10. Quality statements show a manufacturer's promise to offer high-quality standardized products. Consumers should look for a name they recognize on these emblems or an endorsement from a reputable health group. For example, United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) sets standards, and a product may carry its emblem indicating it meets that standard.