It has become common practice for many of us to consume health supplements before starting our day. In today’s fast-paced society, where maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals can be challenging, health supplements play a vital role in supporting modern lifestyles. However, we seldom consider the standards and processes involved in the production of these products that we consume so routinely.

In Korea, health supplements refer to products manufactured and processed using ingredients or components with proven functional benefits for the human body. Functionality in this context denotes beneficial effects on human health, such as regulating bodily structures and functions or supporting physiological activities. These products encompass a wide range of functions, including liver health, eye health, and improved blood circulation. To date, a total of 31 functions have been officially recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) based on rigorous scientific validation. Functionality is categorized into three main types: reduction of disease risk, physiological activation, and nutritional supplementation, each supported by stringent evaluations and testing.

Health Supplements vs. General Foods and Pharmaceuticals

Due to their specific and differentiated functionalities, health supplements are subject to distinct standards that set them apart from general foods and pharmaceuticals. In Korea, such products are regulated under the Health supplements Act and must undergo specific procedures to ensure their quality and safety. Only products marked with the term “health functional food” and the official certification mark can make such claims. In contrast, general or traditional health foods, though often reputed to have health benefits, are not subjected to the same regulatory scrutiny by the MFDS, distinguishing them from health supplements.

Stringent Regulatory Oversight and Standards

Additionally, health supplements are strictly managed through systems such as licensing, pre-review of labeling, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification, functionality verification, and adverse effect monitoring. Unlike pharmaceuticals, health supplements are not intended to directly treat or prevent diseases. Instead, they aim to maintain normal bodily functions and enhance physiological activities to support and improve overall health.

Market Growth and Global Expansion

This distinct functionality and accessibility have contributed to steady growth in the domestic health functional food market since 2019. In 2022, the market expanded by 7.2% compared to the previous year, demonstrating sustained growth momentum. In addition, export volume is also increasing every year, indicating that the growth of the health functional food market is not limited to the domestic market. This upward trend is expected to continue in the coming years.

This distinct functionality and accessibility have contributed to steady growth in the domestic health functional food market since 2019. In 2022, the market expanded by 7.2% compared to the previous year, demonstrating sustained growth momentum. In addition, export volume is also increasing every year, indicating that the growth of the health functional food market is not limited to the domestic market. This upward trend is expected to continue in the coming years.