As e-commerce continues to dominate the global marketplace, the regulatory scrutiny of health-related products sold online is intensifying. In response, major platforms are implementing stricter compliance requirements for third-party sellers—especially those offering ophthalmic products, dietary supplements, and skin lightening products. These categories are increasingly flagged for safety, efficacy, and labeling concerns due to their potential impact on consumer health.
Why These Categories Are Under the Microscope
Dietary Supplements: Contamination, adulteration, improper labeling, and misleading claims in supplements can pose real health risks. Ingredients may interact with medications, or consumers may misuse products based on exaggerated or unsubstantiated claims.
Ophthalmic Products: Eye drops and contact lens solutions must be sterile and safe for sensitive use. Non-compliant products can cause serious eye infections or even permanent vision loss.
Skin Lightening Products: These are frequently found to contain harmful substances like hydroquinone or mercury, which can lead to severe skin damage, systemic toxicity, and long-term health issues.
The stakes are high—not just for sellers, but for e-commerce platforms and consumers. Non-compliance risks legal consequences, product recalls, account suspension, and reputational damage.
Regulatory Bodies Are Enforcing Standards
Agencies like the FDA and FTC are ramping up enforcement against misbranded or unapproved products. In response, platforms are requiring third-party sellers to demonstrate full compliance with U.S. and international regulations, including:
- Evidence of regulatory classification (e.g., drug, dietary supplement, or cosmetic)
- Chemical and microbiological testing to ensure safety and purity
- Label compliance audits to meet FDA and FTC standards
- GMP certification to verify high manufacturing quality
Why SGS Nutrasource?
SGS Nutrasource, part of the global SGS network, is a trusted leader in testing, inspection, and certification. With decades of regulatory expertise, we help brands meet complex e-commerce requirements and deliver safe, compliant products to consumers.
We support sellers by offering:
- Label & Claims Review – Ensure your product is compliant and truthful
- E-Commerce Documentation Packages – Meet platform-specific rules
- Scientific Validation – Strengthen claims with third-party lab and clinical testing
- Global Regulatory Strategy – Confidently expand into new markets
Compliance Builds Trust
Requiring third-party sellers to work with reputable partners like SGS helps e-commerce platforms:
- Enhance consumer trust through verified, quality-tested products
- Reduce liability risks from unsafe or non-compliant goods
- Promote public health by limiting access to harmful products
Ultimately, compliance is not just a legal obligation—it’s a strategic advantage. In today’s competitive online marketplace, transparency, and safety drive consumer loyalty.
Whether you're launching a new supplement or selling an OTC ophthalmic product, SGS Nutrasource can guide you from concept to compliant product listing.
Let’s work together to build a safer, more trustworthy online marketplace.
About the Author
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Meg Saporita is a Project Manager in Regulatory Sciences at SGS Nutrasource with over 20 years of experience in the wellness industry. She supports clients in navigating global regulatory requirements for health products, including dietary supplements, cosmetics, and over the counter drugs. With a background in regulatory science and a focus on e-commerce compliance, Meg helps brands ensure their online presence meets both domestic and international standards. She is passionate about bridging the gap between innovation and regulation in the evolving wellness space. |
