What is the main concern about the lack of FDA oversight for supplements?

The main concern about the lack of FDA oversight for supplements relates to potential health risks due to unverified safety. Unlike pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements do not require pre-market approval from the FDA, which means that products can be introduced to the market without rigorous testing for safety or efficacy. This lack of regulation can lead to several issues, such as the inclusion of harmful substances, inaccurate labeling, and inappropriate dosages. Consumers using these unregulated products may unknowingly expose themselves to health risks, allergic reactions, or interactions with prescribed medications, which can lead to serious health complications.

The other options are relevant considerations but do not address the central issue of safety as directly as the concern about health risks. While increased cost can affect consumers, it is not as serious a concern as the potential to harm one's health. Limited availability of supplements in stores does not pertain to safety or efficacy and is more of a market issue. Confusion among consumers regarding efficacy can lead to misguided choices, but the primary concern remains that individuals may consume unsafe products that have not been adequately verified for their safety, leading to health issues.