A multivitamin cannot replace meals

The key question

NIH ODS states that supplements cannot replace the variety of foods important to a healthy eating routine. A pill containing selected vitamins is not a meal containing energy, protein, fiber, and many other components. Supplements can have a role for a particular deficiency or life stage, but the indication should be specific. The promise of nutritional insurance can be misleading when it encourages skipping meals or ignoring a pattern with little variety. [1]

Look beyond a single food

A food claim needs a defined question: which food or product, what amount and preparation, for whom, and compared with what? A nutrient number does not establish a clinical benefit. Broad labels such as natural or healthy cannot replace ingredient, portion, and safety information. A workable eating pattern also depends on access, preferences, and life stage; excluding entire groups can make planning harder when there is no medical reason. [2]

Putting it into practice

Address access to regular food as well as any medically identified nutrient gap. [1]

General food guidance does not override allergy, infant-feeding, pregnancy, or prescribed dietary care. [2]