USP Preps New Heavy Metal Standards

ROCKVILLE, Md.—USP is taking comments through Dec. 15, 2008, on the control of heavy metal impurities in dietary supplements and drugs, following the publication of a Stimuli article outlining the group’s rationale on the proposed limits for contaminants such as lead, mercury and arsenic. Pharmalot’s Ed Silverman queried USP’s Darrell Abernathy about the new methodology, including USP’s reasoning; Abernathy noted more accurate testing methodology coupled with the rising concern about contaminated materials originating in Asia drove the organization to revisit its standard.

One group questioning USP’s rationale, particularly in regards to lead contamination, is ConsumerLab.com, which issued a statement and filed a letter with USP urging the group to adopt a limit of 0.5 mcg per day per product.