Omega-3 Fish Oil Gummy Bites

Witkowski et al. 2023 (Nature Medicine, PMID 36849732) reported elevated plasma erythritol associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in two cohorts (n=4,000+), with in-vitro and ex-vivo evidence of enhanced platelet aggregation. Replication is ongoing; FDA and EFSA have not changed their safety positions, but the signal is real and the additive is purely cosmetic. Better-established concern: GI tolerance — single doses above ~50 g cause osmotic diarrhea. Lower threshold for children.

A FODMAP sugar alcohol that can cause GI distress (bloating, gas, diarrhea) at moderate doses (>10-20g/day), though supplement amounts are typically small. Extremely toxic to dogs — households with pets should store securely.

Broad regulatory category of flavor constituents derived from natural sources. Composition is proprietary and not disclosed — 'Natural Flavors' can include several hundred different compounds depending on the target flavor profile, including hexane-extracted constituents and proprietary carrier solvents. 'Natural' is a regulatory definition (21 CFR §101.22), not a safety guarantee.

Natural orange-red colorant extracted from sweet red peppers (Capsicum annuum); the pigments are capsanthin and capsorubin

Vitamin C used as an antioxidant preservative in supplements to prevent oxidation

Natural acid derived from citrus fruits

Protein derived from collagen, used in traditional capsule shells

Sweet-tasting liquid used in soft capsules and liquids