Over half of consumers in Asia-Pacific regions admit to using health supplements, yet more than half express doubts about their ability to make informed decisions regarding supplement selection - according to a Herbalife survey.
In a recent survey conducted by Herbalife, it was revealed that consumers' purchase decisions for health supplements are heavily influenced by factors such as product safety (49%), efficacy (49%), healthcare professional recommendation (43%), and quality certifications (38%). However, the survey also highlighted a concerning gap in knowledge, with more than half (50%) of respondents being unaware of the effects of over-consumption for vitamin C, calcium, and vitamin D [1].
The survey, which included 9,000 respondents across 11 markets in Asia Pacific, also found that only half (50%) of consumers expressed confidence in their ability to make responsible supplement choices. Among age groups, Boomer respondents had the least concern and confidence, while Gen Zs were the strongest believers and most confident [1].
To address this gap in knowledge and empower responsible supplement choices, Herbalife is taking several initiatives. The company has launched the third Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour, which involves experts visiting multiple cities to educate consumers about health and nutrition trends and the importance of a healthy active lifestyle. This initiative reached tens of thousands of participants and helped increase awareness across the region [1].
Herbalife also collaborates with credible institutions to deliver education based on science-backed facts, addressing consumer gaps in supplement knowledge. For instance, the survey found that while 80% of consumers take supplements, only 50% feel confident in making responsible choices, revealing a clear need for trustworthy education and guidance [2].
The company's Nutrition Advisory Board of health and nutrition experts supports the training of independent distributors and public education, improving the quality and consistency of information delivered on proper nutrition and supplement use [1]. Herbalife also offers personalized digital tools like their Protocol app, which provides tailored nutrition and supplement guidance, further empowering consumers to understand their health needs and supplement impact [4].
Herbalife values product safety, quality, and transparency. The Company's products are tested for quality, and they value third-party verifications. Sourcing is a critical area for Herbalife in ensuring high-quality, consistent, and traceable supplements [1].
Trust in a supplement brand significantly affects purchase decisions, with 95% of APAC consumers admitting to its influence. Across Asia Pacific, healthcare professionals, friends and family, and independent product research are the top sources of information influencing consumers' supplement decisions [1].
Preventive healthcare is considered important by a majority of respondents, with making healthier food choices (55%), taking health supplements (54%), and doing more physical activities (46%) being their top actions [3]. Herbalife Ltd., a premier health and wellness company, has been in operation since 1980, offering science-backed products in more than 90 markets through its independent distributors [1].
For more information, contact Susan Tan, Director of Corporate Communications, Asia Pacific, at [email protected].
References: [1] Herbalife Press Release, 2021. [2] Herbalife 2025 Asia Pacific Responsible Supplementation Survey, 2021. [3] Herbalife 2021 Consumer Survey, 2021. [4] Herbalife Protocol App, 2021.
Consumers looking to make informed health-and-wellness choices can benefit from Herbalife's initiatives, such as the third Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour, which delivers science-based education on health, nutrition, and supplements. Furthermore, to address the knowledge gap about supplements, Herbalife collaborates with credible institutions, offering nutrition education supported by evidence from the field of science.
