If the Presidential Commission on Dietary Supplement Labels has its way, consumers soon will have much more access to scientific information about the benefits and need for dietary supplements, which include vitamins, minerals and a vast array of botanical products.

The commission, chaired by Malden C. Nesheim, Ph.D., professor of nutritional sciences emeritus and provost emeritus at Cornell University, released its draft report for public comment in late June. The public has until Aug. 8 to make comments. Among its many recommendations, the commission called for more scientific research on supplements, provided guidelines for scientific substantiation of any statements of nutritional support and for government surveillance to identify safety issues. Product safety, the commission stated, should be ensured by the supplement industry. The commission also called for the supplement industry to establish an expert advisory committee to review label claims and provide guidance on safety, benefits and labeling.

Since dietary supplements are not regulated as drugs, labels and package inserts, the commission recommended, should make no nutrient/disease links but rather should provide useful information about the product's intended use and its role in humans without suggesting disease prevention or treatment.

"Our goal was to ensure that consumers will be able to make informed choices about dietary supplements," said Nesheim, a specialist in nutrition and public-health issues who was appointed by President Clinton in 1995 to chair the commission. The draft report calls for greater access by consumers to the evidence that forms the basis for claims made for supplement products.

The seven-member commission, established by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), was charged with reviewing and developing recommendations for label claims and statements for dietary supplements. In September, the final report will go to the president, Congress and the Department of Health and Human Services. The Food and Drug Administration is then required to respond and draft regulations accordingly.

Copies of the report may be obtained by calling (301) 650-0382 or faxing (301) 650-0398.