A Consumerlab.com study released Oct. 28 found that some vitamin A supplements contained higher or lower amounts than advertised on the label. Of the ten supplements selected, one showed nearly triple the amount of vitamin A than its label claimed, and three others fell short of their label claims.

One vitamin A supplement contained 72% of its advertised amount, another just 68% and the third contained only 60% of its advertised amount. Eleven products tested by Consumerlab.com contained proper amounts and received an approval rating from the researchers.

Of particular concern was the product that contained double its claimed amount, which could potentially be toxic, especially for pregnant women or children under 8. According to Consumerlab.com, the daily Tolerable Upper Intake Level for vitamin A should not exceed 2,000 IU for children 1 to 3 years of age; 3,000 IU for those 4 to 8; 5,666 IU for those under 9 to 13; 9,333 IU for those 14 to 18; and 10,000 IU for adults.

U.S. consumer sales of vitamin A/beta carotene increased 9% in 2007, according to Nutrition Business Journal research. Sales reached the $1 billion mark for the first time last year, as the product turned in its fifth straight year of positive growth.

More information on the Consumerlab.com report is available at www.consumerlab.com.