Can children use a food supplement formulated for adults?

Answer

Not every food supplement is suitable for every age group. The safe intake levels of the vitamins, minerals and other components in these products vary by age; a product formulated for people aged 11 and over is prepared according to the limits set for that age group. Using such products for children in the 2-4 or 4-10 age groups can therefore pose a health risk, and some supplements contain components that are unsuitable or not permitted for children under 10. Products intended for children must state clearly on the label either "suitable for use by children aged 2-4" or "suitable for use by children aged 4-10". Always check whether this statement appears on the label before buying; splitting an adult product into smaller doses for a child is not a safe practice.