A comprehensive process for working with a contract manufacturer of dietary supplements

The production and market introduction of dietary supplements is a complex process that requires not only a good idea but also extensive experience, technological facilities, and knowledge of regulations. That is why more and more companies choose contract manufacturing of dietary supplements. What does cooperation with a contract manufacturer look like step by step—from initial consultations to final production? We explain.

First Steps: From Idea and Consultation to Project Quotation

In the case of dietary supplements, contract manufacturing follows clearly defined stages. The first is the initial consultation, during which the client’s needs are analyzed. The manufacturer collects information about the supplement concept, its function, and the desired form. It’s also important to define who the final product is aimed at and how it should reach them. After obtaining this information, the contract manufacturer advises on how to optimize the project to increase its market success potential. A quotation and MOQ are also determined.

The Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) required to launch full-scale production may vary depending on the product form. For example, hard capsules or sachets may require a minimum of 150,000 or 75,000 units respectively. If the order is too small, it may result in higher unit costs or even make the project unfeasible.

See what cooperation with eubioco looks like. We specialize in contract manufacturing of medicinal products, both prescription (Rx) and over-the-counter (OTC). We also have extensive experience in contract manufacturing of dietary supplements—including design, production, registration, and market introduction. We offer a comprehensive approach to the entire contract manufacturing process—from concept to finished product.

Product Foundation: Formulation, Raw Material Procurement, Regulations, and Quality Control

The next stage of contract manufacturing involves formulating the supplement and selecting appropriate raw materials. The manufacturer, supported by a team of technologists and specialists, helps develop a composition that not only aligns with market trends but also complies with legal regulations.

Cooperation with a contract manufacturer therefore includes:

• laboratory testing of ingredients to ensure the final product’s stability and compliance with permissible doses and substances;
• preparation and submission of notification documents to the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate (GIS);
• implementation and use of key food safety management systems, including GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), and GHP (Good Hygiene Practice);
• preparation of labeling and final product packaging in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council.

In the case of dietary supplements, manufacturers must conduct quality control at every stage of production. Control measures should include testing raw materials, verifying process compliance with technical parameters, and analyzing the final product for declared ingredients, stability, and absence of contaminants.

The Core of the Process: Main Production; Final Step: Packaging, Labeling, and Shipping Preparation

The typical contract manufacturing process for dietary supplements lasts from 12 to 16 weeks, depending on raw material availability, formulation complexity, and project specifications. Before the product reaches a warehouse, store, or distribution center, the final steps include not only the actual production but also:

• unit packaging (e.g., in blisters or sachets);
• sealing and securing the product;
• labeling in compliance with regulations;
• bulk packaging—for logistics and storage purposes.

Good to know: Companies with extensive experience in dietary supplement contract manufacturing often offer additional services, such as warehousing or B2C logistics. This comprehensive cooperation model supports brand growth and increases market success potential.

Contract manufacturing is a multi-stage process requiring specialized knowledge and advanced technological facilities. All this is provided by eubioco, which includes the company Laboratorium Galenowe Olsztyn. By working with eubioco, you gain a combination of experience and innovative technology with full consultancy and a professional partnership approach. To learn more, check out our portfolio and read the blog article with practical tips: Contract Manufacturing of Supplements Step by Step.

Dietary Supplements – Production – Frequently Asked Questions

I. How long does a typical contract manufacturing process take from order to delivery?

The typical contract manufacturing process for dietary supplements lasts from 12 to 16 weeks, depending on raw material availability, formulation complexity, and project specifications.

II. Do I need a ready-made formulation, or can the manufacturer help develop one?

No, in the case of dietary supplements, a contract manufacturer can develop a formulation based on the previously agreed product concept.

III. Can the contract manufacturer assist with product notification to GIS?

Yes, in the dietary supplement industry, contract manufacturers often offer support in preparing and submitting notification documents to GIS.

IV. What is MOQ and why is it important for pricing and production planning?

MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the minimum quantity of goods that must be ordered from a supplier to launch proper serial production.

V. What documents are required to start working with the manufacturer?

To start contract manufacturing of dietary supplements, you need: a product brief, packaging and label assumptions, and optionally, a formulation specification.

VI. Is the contract manufacturer responsible for labeling errors?

Yes, if the contract manufacturer prepares the label, they are responsible for it. If the label is provided by the client, the responsibility rests with the client—unless otherwise agreed in the contract.

References

1. Biznes.gov.pl – Information and service portal for entrepreneurs (2022). What must a label include [online]. Available at: https://biznes.gov.pl/pl/portal/001770 [accessed: 21.05.2025]
2. Chief Sanitary Inspectorate – Gov.pl Portal (2025). ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION SYSTEM: Notification of first market introduction (dietary supplements, fortified foods, foods for specific groups) [online]. Available at: https://www.gov.pl/web/gis/… [accessed: 21.05.2025]
3. REGULATION (EU) No 1169/2011 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 25 October 2011 on the provision of food information to consumers…