Sports nutrition & supplements in Switzerland
A practical checklist for evaluating consumer sports-nutrition products sold online in Switzerland. This guide is separate from Avelqor Labs research-use-only materials.
1. Check the product category first
In Switzerland, food supplements are regulated as foods rather than medicines. They must not be presented as products that prevent, treat or cure disease. Product classification matters because ordinary foods, sports foods, supplements and medicines are subject to different rules.
2. Read the label before the marketing copy
For a consumer supplement, check the product name, ingredient list, recommended daily serving, required warnings and the responsible business information. The Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO/BLV) explains that food-supplement labelling is subject to both general food-labelling rules and additional supplement-specific requirements.
3. Treat health claims carefully
Health-related statements are regulated. In Switzerland, permitted health claims must meet the applicable conditions, and disease-prevention or treatment claims are prohibited for foods. A credible product page should distinguish ordinary nutrition information from medical promises.
4. Look for traceability and responsible sourcing
Useful product information includes the manufacturer or responsible seller, batch or lot data where available, country or source information, ingredient quantities, allergens and clear customer-support details. Products sold online are still subject to the same food-law requirements as products sold offline.
5. Compare products by category—not hype
Concentrate, isolate and clear-whey categories. Creatine
Straightforward creatine formats and label checks. Hydration & Electrolytes
Ingredient and serving information first. Vitamins & Minerals
Check quantities, serving size and warnings.
Official Swiss references
BLV: Nahrungsergänzungsmittel – Grundlagen und rechtliche Aspekte
BLV: Kennzeichnung von Lebensmitteln
BLV: Nährwert- und gesundheitsbezogene Angaben
Related Avelqor guides
Whey Protein: concentrate vs isolate vs clear whey →
Creatine Monohydrate: what to check before buying →