Tom Harkin: “Just one minor correction I would make, and that is under the DSHEA law, the FDA must approve any health claims made by…”

“Just one minor correction I would make, and that is under the DSHEA law, the FDA must approve any health claims made by any dietary supplement or vitamin. The only health claims they can make are structure function claims, but they have to be approved by the FDA. I just wanted to clear up that point. I would also say further that I honestly don't know of any vitamin or supplement that is out there in the market that is dangerous if taken as directed--if taken as directed. As I said, anybody can abuse things. But if taken as directed, I, quite frankly, don't know of any supplement out there that is dangerous. Quite frankly, if taken as directed, they help maintain people's health and keep them healthy rather than being injurious to their health. I yield the floor.”