September/October - Natural Products Association

NOW
September / October 2013
Honoring the
2013 Award Winners
In this issue:
2013 Election Results
Each year, members
and supporters
gather to salute
those dedicated
individuals who
have contributed
to the association
and the natural
products industry.
NPA is proud to
present the award
recipients for 2013
on pages 10-14.
A record number of members
voted this year; check out the
results on page 5.
Page 5
GE Food Legislation
Learn how the term
“genetically engineered” is
defined in the federal GE
Food Right-to-Know Act.
Page 6
Brand Advocates
Expand your marketing
and read how to cultivate a
spokesperson for your brand.
Page 14
Table of Contents
Letter From the President …................ 2
4
NPA News .......................................... 5
Legislative Update .............................. 6
Feature: Award Winners ..................... 8
Trending Markets .........………...…..... 16
Welcome New Members ....................
17
Dietary Supplements ....................... 18
The Natural Seal .............................. 20
Member News ………………….…...…… 21
Regional Update …......……..........…… 22
Contact NPA …........................…….... 23
For Retailers …...….......................…..
Kosher For All?
Learn how Kosher certified
products are attracting a
wider consumer market.
Page 17
from the PRESIDENT
Passing the Torch
As my term as NPA president comes to an end, I’ve spent much time
reflecting on the last few years, focusing on what we’ve accomplished and
how we secured those achievements. But what we have done as an association
isn’t as important as what we will do. And I’m pleased to know that the next
NPA president will be able to lead us on a path toward future success.
Jeff Wright
NPA President
Owner, Wright’s Nutrients
New Port Richey, Fla.
Roxanne Green is a dedicated and passionate member of both NPA and the
natural products industry. Roxanne’s 30 plus years at Seattle’s PCC Natural
Markets, which has been a member of NPA
since 1992, illustrates her commitment to this
Incoming President
industry and the topics that matter most to us.
Roxanne Green
I’ve enjoyed working with Roxanne on
officially takes
committees and as a board member for more
office on Jan. 1
than six years, and I’ve learned a great deal
from her. Roxanne will be an excellent leader
for NPA, directing us toward the continued growth and advocacy that
protects our industry from oppressive regulation, and helping to champion
crucial issues.
I very much look forward to seeing what’s in store for NPA with Roxanne as
president. I know only good things are to come!
All the best,
Jeff Wright
Natural Products Association Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Jeff Wright, President
Wright’s Nutrients, New Port Richey, Fla.
Roxanne Green, President-Elect
PCC Natural Markets, Kirkland, Wash.
Harvey Kamil, Treasurer
NBTY, Inc., Bohemia, N.Y.
Jane Drinkwalter, Chair, Supply Council
Vitamer Laboratories, Irvine, Calif.
Jon Fiume, Chair, Retail Council
Ritzman Natural Health Pharmacy
Wadsworth, Ohio
Directors
Robert Agnew
Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods
Milwaukie, Ore.
Carolyn Behrman
Natural Choices for Healthy Living
Columbus, Ind.
Rhonda Bone, President, NPA-SW Region
Rhonda’s Nature’s Way, San Antonio, Texas
Donnie Caffery
Good Foods Grocery, Inc., Richmond, Va.
Ben Henderson, President, NPA-SE Region
Bare Essentials Natural Market, Boone, N.C.
Frank Jaksch
Chromadex, Irvine, Calif.
Mark LeDoux
Natural Alternative International, Inc.
San Marcos, Calif.
Greg Leonard
KeHE Distributors, St. Augustine, Fla.
John Montague, President, NPA-East Region
Web Vitamins, Windsor, Conn.
Nick Pascoe, President, NPA-NW Region
Bear Foods Natural Market, Chelan, Wash.
Howard Pollack
Rainbow Acres, Los Angeles, Calif.
Al Powers
NOW Foods, Bloomingdale, Ill.
Peggy Ranger
Peggy’s Natural Foods, Inc., Stuart, Fla.
J.R. Rigley
J.R. Watkins Naturals, Winona, Minn.
Dave Sullivan
GNC, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Connie Williams
Food for Living, Defiance, Ohio
Michele Lobo
Presence Marketing, South Barrington, Ill.
2 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
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Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 3
MEMBERSHIP news
NPA Welcomes New Members
(as of October 15, 2013)
Retailers
The Well
Bedford, Va.
www.wellofcourse.net
Apteka Naturel
Laguna Niguel, Calif.
www.aptekanaturel.com
Everyday Vitamin
Brooklyn, N.Y.
www.everydayvitamin.com
Natural Systems International Corp.
Doral, Fla.
www.naturalsystems.com
Orgen Nutraceuticals, Inc.
Westland, Mich.
www.orgennutra.com
Range of Motion Dance & Fitness, LLC
DBA Range of Wellness
Campbell, Calif.
Americavita LLC
Miami, Fla.
www.americavita.com
Nature’s Sign Inc.
Brea, Calif.
www.naturessign.com
New Earth Natural Foods
Cortislim International Inc.
Laguna Niguel, Calif.
www.cortislim.com
DNG Trading & Milling
Skaneateles, N.Y.
www.dngtm.com
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op
Sacramento, Calif.
www.sacfoodcoop.com
Elkhead Labs
Suppliers
Denver, Colo.
www.elkheadlabs.com
Probulin
Topeka, KS
AuthenTechnologies
Solanum LLC
Laredo, Texas
Richmond, Calif.
www.solanumusa.com
www.authentechnologies.com
B&R Products Inc.
Greentree Brokers
Potomac, Md.
Miami, Fla.
www.brpro.com
www.greendandelion.info
Tianjin DongJiang International Agricultural
Product Trading Market CO. LET
Tianjin
Blue Dog Enterprises
www.dongjiang.gov.cn
Green Dandelion
Philadelphia, Pa.
Middletown, Md.
Shanghai Shengjin Cosmetic Co. Ltd
Shanghai, China
Vita Pure Technologies
Short Hills, N.J.
www.vitapuretech.com
4 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
Peoples Republic of China
Guangzhou Fuya Beauty Products Company Ltd.
Guangzhou, Guangdong
Peoples Republic of China
www.dreiffel.cn
Element
New York, N.Y.
www.findmyelement.com
NPAinfo.org
O
ver the last several months, your trade association embarked on a multi-faceted campaign
to mobilize the membership to vote on six recommended bylaw amendments, achieving a
quorum necessary for the votes to pass. During the Annual Business Meeting on Sept. 25, NPA
announced the results of the six proposed membership bylaw amendments.
Passed
u To allow for an electronic voting process. All member communications surrounding the vot-
ing process, as well as the ballots, can be transmitted electronically to members.
u To change the terms for board members to allow three consecutive board terms instead of
the current limit of two terms.
u To change voting and board terms so they happen at a fixed time annually instead of be-
ing linked to the NPA trade show, which was suspended this year, and annual business meeting,
which was moved to September.
u To clarify determination of winner of elections in certain circumstances where more than the
required number of candidates gets a majority of the vote.
u To clarify intent of the bylaws to specifically state that the NPA president must be off the
board for one year before being eligible to run again.
Failed
u Change the definition of a retail member to remove the restriction of a self-contained store –
this prevents Internet retailers from becoming members – and the restriction that 75 percent of a
retailer’s sales come from natural products. This amendment failed by only 11 votes.
NPA also announced the names of
members who were elected to the
association's board of directors.
The two retail directors include
Ben Henderson of Bare Essentials
Natural Market in Boone, N.C., and
Emil Mahler of Southtown Health
Foods in Chicago. In addition, the
following members were selected
as new supplier directors: Robert
Agnew of Bob's Red Mill, Frank
Jaksch of ChromaDex, Michelle
Lobo of Presence/Dynamic Presence,
and J.R. Rigley of J.R. Watkins. Mark
LeDoux of Natural Alternatives
International was elected to a
second term on the board.
NPAinfo.org
"With these changes, NPA will be better
suited to serve the entire natural
products industry, from concept
to consumer. The membership has
demonstrated the direction it wishes to
steer this organization, and we'll ensure
NPA evolves in new and unique ways,
expanding our membership and achieving
our mission of access to natural
products for all."
- John Shaw, CEO and executive director
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 5
NPA news
Results of 2013 Election and
Proposed Bylaw Amendments
LEGISLATIVE update
ongressional Corner
Get to know the
Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act
T
he Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act will be a hot topic for months, and maybe years,
to come. Introduced this Spring by Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) the
bill has 13 cosponsors in the Senate and 39 cosponsors in the House of Representatives. On July 15, the
Natural Products Association announced its endorsement of the legislation to require the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) to label foods containing genetically modified ingredients, allowing consumers to
make educated decisions about foods they buy. Here are the details of the legislation:
•
Defines “genetically engineered” as a material intended for human consumption that is
1. An organism produced through the intentional use of genetic engineering.
2. The offspring of intended reproduction of one or more organisms that is already the product
of genetic engineering.
•
Defines a “genetically engineered ingredient” as an ingredient in a food that is derived from any part
of an organism that has been genetically engineered, no matter if:
1. The altered cell characteristics of the organism are detectable in the material.
2. The organism is able to be consumed as human food.
•
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act so any food that has been genetically engineered
(or contains one or more genetically engineered ingredients) will be considered misbranded, unless
such information is clearly disclosed.
•
Exempts from this requirement any food that:
1. Is served in restaurants or other similar eating establishments.
2. Is a medical food.
3. Would be subject to such requirement solely because it was produced using a genetically
engineered vaccine.
4. Would be subject to such requirement only because it uses a genetically engineered
processing aid (including yeast) or enzyme.
•
Any recipient is excluded if they establish a document that:
1. Is signed by a person residing in the United States from whom the recipient received the
food in good faith (including the receipt of seeds to grow raw agricultural commodities).
2. Contains a statement to the effect that the food is not genetically engineered or does not
contain a genetically engineered ingredient.
•
When this exclusion is applied, it does not matter the way in which the food was consumed.
•
Excludes an agricultural producer when:
1. Food the producer has grown or raised is contaminated with a food that does contain (or
was produced with) a genetically engineered material.
2. Any such contamination was unintentional, and the agricultural producer was not careless
in the production.
The NPA Advocacy team continues to monitor this bill, which is expected to remain on the forefront of our industry
lobbying efforts. Any movement or information will be communicated to members the moment it becomes
available. Be sure to watch for NPA Member Update Emails for the most up-to-date information.
6 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
W
hen the partial governmenet
shutdown ended on Oct. 17, the
approved legislation that would fund the
U.S. government through Jan. 16 does not
include one notable provision related to the
Farm Bill.
This bill (HR2775) does not continue
a provision, known as the Monsanto
Rider, from the previous continuing
appropriations law proposed in March. The
provision would have allowed genetically
engineered crops to continue to be
cultivated and sold, even when courts had
found they posed a potential risk to farmers
of nearby crops, as well as the environment
and human health in general.
This can be considered a victory for those
against harvesting genetically modified
crops.
O
n Sept. 19, Rep. Frank Pallone,
D-N.J., introduced the Food Labeling
Modernization Act in Congress. The text
of this legislation is posted on the NPA
website but the highlights are included
here.
With this bill, Rep. Pallone is aiming to set
a standard for using the term natural, as
well as various other labeling terms. It’s
important to point out that this legislation
exempts dietary supplements. Rep.
Pallone’s actions come on the heels of First
Lady Michelle Obama’s call for companies
to market healthier foods to children.
Developments surrounding the bill are
ongoing, and your NPA advocacy team will
continue to monitor its progress.
The Friday File
It’s the long story, short: A
snapshot of five industry media
stories delivered straight to your
inbox each Friday. With John’s
inside-the-beltway perspective
and punchy personality, this is
one email you might even look
forward to.
You must be on the list, so be sure
to opt-in to receive The Friday File.
Get on the List
u
Visit NPAinfo.org/fridayfile to subscribe.
NPAinfo.org
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 7
LEGISLATIVE update
Monsanto Rider Update
Rep. Frank Pallone
Introduces Food Labeling
Initiative
feature: NPA AWARD WINNERS
Honoring the 2013
NPA Award Winners
E
ach year, members and supporters gather to
salute those dedicated individuals who have
contributed to the association and the natural
products industry.
Both individuals and companies are honored in
various fields of achievement including science,
the environment, the legislative arena, and more.
The association is proud to present the award
recipients for 2013.
Awards were
presented
during the
NPA
Annual
Business
Meeting on
Sept. 25.
8 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
Scott Bass, Partner, Sidley Austin LLC
The President’s Award was created to
recognize an individual who has made
longtime contributions to the natural
products industry.
Scott Bass accepts his award
during the NPA Awards
Ceremony on Sept. 25.
Mr. Bass heads the Sidley Austin LLP
Global Life Sciences team, coordinating
pharmaceutical, medical device, food
and dietary supplement matters in
the United States, Europe and Asia.
He is ranked internationally among
the top authorities on Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) related
enforcement and regulatory issues,
and has led audits and investigations
involving off-label promotion, good
manufacturing practices (GMPs),
and fraud and abuse issues, as well
as Drug Enforcement Administration
(DEA) and Federal Trade Commission
(FTC) matters. Mr. Bass has also acted
as an expert on a European Union
Commission panel; as an advisor
on new China drug and device
legislation; and as an advisor on an
FDA dietary supplement website. His
work defending clients has earned
him acknowledgement in numerous
industry publications.
Burton Kallman Scientific Award
Paul Coates, Director, Office of Dietary Supplements,
National Institutes of Health
The Burton Kallman Scientific Award recognizes individuals who
have made outstanding scientific contributions that have benefited
the natural products industry.
Dr. Coates is the director of the Office of Dietary Supplements
(ODS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). His major
research interests for many years focused on inborn errors of
human lipid metabolism. Dr. Coates conducted some of the early
studies of fatty acid oxidation disorders in infants and children.
With an international team of collaborators, he was responsible
for defining many of the genetic defects of human mitochondrial
fatty acid oxidation. He also has studied the metabolism of
intestinal and hepatic lipoproteins in people. These studies have
led to a new understanding of the role of environmental factors,
such as diet, in the manifestation of genetic disease. He has
written more than 100 publications, and has edited two books in
these areas of research.
Paul Coates addresses the audience during acceptance of his award.
NPAinfo.org
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 9
feature: NPA AWARD WINNERS
President’s Award
feature: NPA AWARD WINNERS
Rachel Carson Environmental Award
William McDonough, Architect,
William McDonough + Partners
The Rachel Carson Environmental Award honors individuals who have
made outstanding contributions to the protection of the environment.
Mr. McDonough is a globally recognized leader in sustainable development. Trained
as an architect, his interests and influences range widely, and he works at scales from
the global to the molecular. Time magazine recognized him in 1999 as a “Hero for
the Planet.” In 1996, Mr. McDonough received the Presidential Award for Sustainable
Development, the nation’s highest environmental honor, and in 2003 he earned the first
U.S. EPA Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award. He has written and lectured
extensively on design as the first signal of human intention.
Clinician Award
David Winston, Herbalist and Ethnobotanist
The Clinician Award recognizes licensed healthcare practitioners whose work
exemplifies the best standards and dedication to responsible holistic, noninvasive and integrative, complementary, and alternative medicine modalities.
Mr. Winston is an herbalist and ethnobotanist
with over 40 years of training in Cherokee,
Chinese and Western herbal traditions. He
has been in clinical practice for over 34 years
and is an herbal consultant to physicians,
herbalists and researchers throughout the U.S.
and Canada. Mr. Winston is the founder and
director of the Herbal Therapeutics Research
Library and the dean of David Winston’s
Center for Herbal Studies, a two-year training
program in clinical herbal medicine. He is an
internationally known lecturer and author,
and frequently teaches at medical schools,
symposia and herb conferences. In addition,
Mr. Winston is a founding and professional
member of the American Herbalist Guild
where he has served four terms on the Board
of Directors. He also is on the American
Botanical Council’s Advisory Board.
David Winston accepts his award during the
NPA Awards Ceremony.
10 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
Mark Blumenthal, Founder and Executive Director,
American Botanical Council
Pat Sardell, co-owner of Country Vitamins
The Industry Champion Award recognizes individuals who have made notable contributions
to the natural products industry above and beyond commercial success.
Mr. Blumenthal is the founder
and executive director of the
American Botanical Council,
an independent, nonprofit
organization dedicated to
disseminating accurate, reliable,
and responsible information on
herbs and medicinal plants. He
is the editor and publisher of
HerbalGram, an international, peer-reviewed quarterly
journal, the contents of which reflect the educational
goals of ABC.
Ms. Sardell is co-owner of Country
Vitamins, an independent retail
dietary supplement store in
Corvallis, Ore. She was actively
involved in the efforts to pass
the Dietary Supplement Health
and Education Act of 1994
(DSHEA). Ms. Sardell has served
on the NPA Board of Directors since 2000, currently
as the immediate Past President. She also served
simultaneously as a member of the board of directors
for the Northwest Region from 1999 through 2006,
and as an executive officer and chair of numerous
committees.
Mark Blumenthal, above, and Pat Sardell, right, accept
awards during the NPA Awards Ceremony.
NPAinfo.org
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 11
feature: NPA AWARD WINNERS
Industry Champion Award
feature: NPA AWARD WINNERS
Lifetime Achievement Award
Edward Long, Ph.D. n Jack Martin
The lifetime achievement award is given to individuals outside the natural products industry
who have been an ally to the industry in the political and legislative arena.
Dr. Long is an expert in
health appropriations
and policy, becoming a
vice president with Van
Scoyoc Associates Inc. in
January 2009, following a
distinguished and varied
career in appropriations and
public health consulting
and on Capitol Hill. During the last decade and a
half, Dr. Long has built a substantial government
affairs practice in health and education policy and
appropriations.
Mr. Martin is a former FDA
executive, congressional
staffer and long-time political
consultant who specializes in
health, drug and food policy. He
played a key role in the passage
of DSHEA into law, and he is a
longtime defender of the dietary
supplement industry.
From left to right, Jack Martin, pictured with John Shaw
and Ed Long after the NPA Awards Ceremony.
Socially Responsible Retailer Award
Nature’s Bin of Lakewood, Ohio
The socially responsible retailer award
is given to a NPA member retail store(s)
within the natural products industry. A
retailer is chosen based on commitment
to the environment and community
involvement, education, volunteerism,
and employee empowerment.
Nature’s Bin is a unique natural products store operated by
Cornucopia, Inc., a nonprofit organization. Its mission is to
help people with disabilities develop their skills, confidence
and workplace potential. Nature’s Bin is considered a
“Social Enterprise,” meaning that it is a business operated
by a nonprofit to generate revenue, which is used to
support the mission of the organization. Since 1975
Cornucopia has partnered with Cuyahoga County and Ohio
State agencies in providing vocational services to more than
3,000 individuals with disabilities. Because of its nonprofit
mission and the success of its retail operation, Cornucopia
is often cited as a ground-breaking Social Enterprise and
serves as a consultant to other nonprofits that are seeking
to develop their own version of a social enterprise.
12 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
L
ongtime industry veteran Bernie
Lucich passed away in his sleep
on October 9 after a two month
battle with esophageal cancer.
Bernie was the Sales Manager for
World Organic Corp and Licata
Enterprises, their Private Label
arm. He was a constant face in
both national and regional trade
shows and will be remembered for
wearing the Licata’s ubiquitous
“Lucy” tie featuring the
vitametavegemin episode.
Company chairman, Al Licata,
Ph.D., an industry veteran of 54
years himself, talked of Bernie as
more than a sales manager, “he
was part of our family. Bernie
and his wife Dottie (who passed
away 10 years ago) will be sorely
missed.” He leaves his daughter
Dori, and sons Jeff and Jim, plus six
grandchildren.
Bernie Lucich, pictured above,
at a tradeshow wearing his
trademark I Love Lucy tie.
Also pictured to the right.
NPAinfo.org
“It was such a coincedence that
Ohio State had a home football
game everytime Bernie needed to
fly to the midwest for a sales trip!”
exclaimed President Paul Licata.
He loved his Buckeyes, and even
convinced regional trade shows
they would have to check OSU’s
schedule first! Bernie wasn’t just
passionate about Ohio State,
he was passionate about his
customers, often taking orders at 4
a.m. or on Sundays to accomodate
their needs.
Bernie founded supplement
company Nature’s Concept with
Marv Haber, and after they
separated, he formed Vita-Vista,
specializing in private labeling.
In 1991, the Licatas bought both
companies to expand their direct
brand sales, and Bernie has
been an integral part of Licata
Enterprises and World Organic
as Director of Sales for both
companies. He began his career
with Marion Laboratories, rising
to Assistant Vice-President of Sales.
Bernie later became Vice President
of Sales and Marketing for Signet
Laboratories, which spawned a
host of companies in the natural
foods industry.
His presence in the health food
industry will be sorely missed, as
will be his knowledge of all aspects
of the industry. Bernie was buried
October 20, 2013 in Columbus,
Ohio. Memorial services in the
Orange County, California area are
pending for the end of October.
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 13
remembering BERNIE LUCIC
Remembering an Industry Veteran
SPECIAL section
Influencing Influencers in Naturals
by Nancy Trent
President, Trent & Company Marketing Communications
O
nce upon a time, companies that wanted to sell
their products hired authentic experts, authority
figures, and frequently authors with advanced
academic or medical degrees who all seemed
incorruptible, ethical and thoroughly reliable. They
possessed a high degree of credibility and their own
notoriety rubbed off on the brands they endorsed
either blatantly or subtly. They were, and many still
are, powerful influencers of human behavior.
Then there was the birth of a whole new
phenomenon called, “celebrity spokespeople.”
Some are paid, like Kim Kardashian -- $80,000 a
tweet. Jennifer Aniston, no doubt, makes more as the
celeb behind SmartWater. The same holds true for
the actresses and models who work for L’Oreal and
Maybelline. Many celebrity spokespeople don’t get
paid for mentioning products on TV or in magazines
because they are authentic consumers of the
brands. Many times they are more influential than
paid celebrity spokespeople because you know the
endorsement wasn’t for profit.
Brand advocates are more likely
to be seen as solid, dependable
sources of information by the
people around them.
A lightening-fast Darwinian evolution has taken
place and those “spokespersons” have given way to
“the new mavens.” They are an amalgam of uncredentialed and credentialed authorities who are
curating their fiefdoms, their own tight little worlds,
for micro-audiences on social media. Frequently,
they are passionate individuals who are completely
absorbed in their fields of interest. Don’t make the
mistake of overlooking their power.
14 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
Smart brand managers pursue influencers for
third-party endorsements that tap into their core
audience, the same way journalists’ “endorsements”
are constantly sought after.
Things are not always as they seem, or as we think
they are. The old saying, “perception is reality”
continues to ring loud and clear. We are not who
we think we are. Instead, we are who others believe
us to be. What they see and hear is what they know
and believe to be accurate. The same holds true for
brands.
Your brand is not what you tell people it is. It is
what others tell people it is. Brand advocates are 70
percent more likely to be seen as solid, dependable
sources of information by the people around them.
When they are liked and respected they are seen
as friends, and who do we listen to as much or as
frequently as our friends? Who is more influential
than those we see as our friendly “mentors,” peers
and those who give us advice we trust and can
rely on?
NPAinfo.org
ambassador program? Many ambassadors would
love to increase their own income by selling
products. Develop a system for tracking sales that
are based on the ambassadors’ direct referrals. It’s
easy for them to get credit if the consumer says
your ambassador sent them.
Consider these recommendations:
n For your brand, you need to be able to identify
who the genuine influencers are. Who do the
media quote? Those who pop up frequently in
stories and articles, or appear as commentators
on TV are influential thought leaders.
n How can you partner with those influencers
to become brand ambassadors? Look for the
synergies. Discover where the common ground is
and how your brand’s mission blends with what
they are trying to accomplish. Use that to your
advantage.
n What are the incentives that will resonate with
your ambassador followers to lend their support
to the brand? Many relish the opportunity to gain
even greater notoriety and would be happy to be
an ambassador in exchange for the opportunity
to obtain added publicity.
Don’t be intimidated to consider a celebrity as a
brand ambassador. “Natural” is hot and sexy right
now. Everyone, including celebrities, are trying to
show off just how healthy they are. Health is a new
status symbol and celebrities are always in need of
an image makeover.
To avoid having to work with any ambassador
including celebrities on an expensive and inauthentic
paid endorsement, you need to find the right people
to work with and your product needs to genuinely
appeal to their hearts and minds. You might not
get a full endorsement or permission to use their
name but if people in Hollywood are choosing your
product, word will spread through that community
like it does through any other community.
Many celebrities migrate to Hollywood from all
around the country. Do any hail from your neck of
the woods. Do they still have family in the area?
Relatives of celebrities are often very influential too.
Celebrities come in all forms – consider who your
local celebrities are. It could be a local politician, an
activist, news anchor or a successful business owner.
Spreading the word through community is what
influencers do best.
About the author:
Nancy Trent is a writer and speaker, a lifelong health advocate, a globe-trotting trend watcher and the founder
and president of Trent & Company, a New York-based marketing communications firm. Trent & Company grew
out of Nancy’s personal commitment to helping people live longer and healthier lives. A former journalist
for New York magazine, Nancy has written seven books on healthy lifestyles, serves on the editorial boards
of several magazines and travels around the world speaking at conferences and trade shows on trends in the
marketplace. She is a recognized expert in PR with more than 30 years of experience creating and managing
highly successful campaigns.
Nancy can be reached at (212) 966-0024 or through email at [email protected].
You may also visit www.trentandcompany.com or her blog The Trent Trend Spotter at
http://trenttrendspotter.tumblr.com.
NPAinfo.org
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 15
SPECIAL section
n How can you increase sales through an
TRENDING markets
Petrolatum: Then and Now
by Mark Finneran, MD
P
etrolatum, or petroleum jelly, is a
semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons
that is colorless or pale yellow. When
pure, it has no taste or smell; it is not
soluble in water, but it will dissolve in
turpentine, chloroform or benzene.
Petrolatum was initially discovered in
1859 by oil field workers in Titusville,
Pa., in a substance they called “Rod
Wax”. Rod wax had to be cleaned
periodically from the oil rig pumps
because it caused their equipment
to malfunction. The oil field workers
applied rod wax to cuts and burns and
they said that it “hastened healing”.
Entrepreneur Robert Chesebrough,
a chemist who had been working on
making kerosene from sperm whale
oil, collected some of the black wax
and took it back to his laboratory.
Chesebrough discovered that by using
vacuum distillation, he could remove
lighter oils from the rod wax, and then
by filtering the residue through bone
char, he was able to create a lightcolored gel. In 1872, Chesebrough
patented the process of making
petroleum jelly, and received U.S. Patent
No. 127,568; creating the product now
known as Vaseline©.
The young chemist traveled around
New York and demonstrated his
product by burning his skin with acid
or an open flame and then spreading
the gel on his injuries. Chesebrough
originally promoted Vaseline as a
treatment for scrapes, burns, and
cuts, but subsequent studies have
shown that Vaseline has no medicinal
effect. Petroleum jelly’s effectiveness in
accelerating wound healing appears to
come from its sealant effect, keeping
germs from getting into the wound,
and it tends to keep the skin elastic by
preventing evaporation of the body’s
natural fluids.
Petroleum jelly is also used to coat
metallic jewelry, steel blades and gun
barrels before storage. It is an excellent
and inexpensive water repellent and
is used as an underwater coating
for motor boats and yachts. Some
automobile manufacturers recommend
it as preservative for metal alloy wheels
to protect them against corrosive road
salt and brake dust. It is used to finish
and protect wood; to condition and
protect smooth leather goods like bicycle
seats, boots and motorcycle clothing;
and to put a shine on patent-leather
shoes. It is great for lubricating zippers.
It is used to moisten modeling clay, and
can be used as a release agent for plaster
castings. Lightly coating a cotton ball
with petrolatum makes it useful as tinder.
It has been used as an ingredient in
Molotov cocktails because it makes the
flames stick to surfaces it touches and it
creates a lot of smoke.
1976. Subsequent products received
FDA clearance because they were “at
least as good as” their predicates. All
petrolatum-based formulations are
closely related: take some petrolatum
or other petroleum byproduct, add a
little antibiotic or silver ion, whip it up
and put it in a tube. Petrolatum based
products served us reasonably well
until the last few decades. As with all
synthetic antibiotics, micro-organisms
have developed resistance to these
products, outcomes have deteriorated
and complications have increased.
Intensive work is taking place around
the world to find better alternatives to
petrolatum-based skin care.
Humans have an 8,000-year history
with lanolin, and honey has been used
for over 5,000 years. Bees wax is a
natural skin sealant and olive oil has
been used on the skin for millennia. In
biblical times, myrrh was equivalent to
gold on a weight by weight basis. Aloe
vera is soothing, vegetable glycerin is
smoothing and wheat germ oil provides
nourishing vitamin E to the skin.
Since the time of Robert Chesebrough,
western medicine has used petrolatum
extensively, very commonly as a carrier
for topical skin care. Today we have overthe-counter Neosporin©, triple antibiotic
ointment and Bacitracin©. Prescription
medicines include Bactroban©
or Mupiricin, and Silvadene© or
Thermazene©. Many of these products
were grandfathered into the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) registry
because they were marketed prior to
Petrolatum has had a good run in the
last 150 years, but its time has run out.
HMD Topicals believes that petroleum
should be reserved for gasoline, kerosene
and axle grease; zippers, gun barrels and
aluminum alloy car wheels can have it.
We believe it is time to look to nature;
it is time to look to our elders and the
wisdom of the ages. It is time to improve
outcomes without dangerous synthetic
compounds or petroleum derivatives.
About the author:
Mark Finneran, MD, is the Director of Research and Development of HMD Topicals,
a new member of the Natural Products Association. HMD is proud to be part of the
Natural Products Association family. HMD Topicals was founded by three medical doctors, one of whom is an honorary veterinary surgeon. Together they have
over 100 years of combined medical experience. HMD Topicals manufactures and
distributes RegenaDerm for humans and PetSkin for animals. HMD Topicals believes
that the time has come to move away from petrolatum and petroleum byproducts
and return to nature. Visit our website at HMDTopicals.com or like us on Facebook
at HMD Topicals to learn more. We post weekly updates on our Facebook page and
we promote partners that carry HMD Topicals products. We look forward to working
with you!
16 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
by Cheryl Rosenberg
Introduction
Amidst the overabundance of certifications on
KOSHER
CERTIFICATION
food products today, it is hard to know which
SERVICE
symbols hold significance to consumers. A
supplier’s enthusiasm for certifications can mean a consumer’s
confusion and frustration at a lack of understanding. The usual
scenario is that of a busy consumer who knows the one or two
certifications he or she is looking for, glancing briefly over the
rest in search of the right symbol. Lacking the time or desire to
dedicate to understanding the other certifications, consumers
leave the deciphering to the retailers. With an abundance of
certifications, even retailers have a hard time keeping track.
Often times, the kosher symbol falls through the cracks
because it is assumed to only be applicable to a small, niche
following. Unbeknownst to retailers, the kosher symbol
actually has a lot to offer all customers.
people abiding by kosher dietary restrictions follow are: no
pork and rabbit, eagle and owl, catfish and sturgeon, most
insects, and any shellfish or reptile. Additionally, meat and
dairy products may not be prepared together.
Kosher products vs. ingredients
Although these rules sound basic, violations can easily be
manifested in some of the smallest, almost unnoticeable ways.
Sometimes, even though all the ingredients seem to be of
kosher sources, there are hidden contaminants that are not
listed anywhere on the food’s label. One example is processing
aids. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA),
“any processing aid added and removed or converted to a
declared ingredient or any ingredient of another ingredient or
processing aid present at an insignificant level and having no
technical or functional effect need not be declared.” Despite
the FDA’s ruling that these ingredients are insignificant,
according to kosher standards, they can still contaminate
General kosher regulations
foods if coming from non-kosher sources. For example,
The most well-known kosher symbol is the Orthodox Union
government regulations declare that every food label must
(OU, or OUD) icon that signals to the kosher consumer
declare the type of oil used in the making of the product.
that the product meets strict Jewish religious standards of
However, just knowing the oil is not good enough for OU
observance regarding the preparation of foods. With almost
certification. Although a product may only use a vegetable
1 million products certified with the OU annually, it is hard to
oil, if the processing equipment also works with animal oil
miss. The standards of the OU are so high and the regulations
sources, there can be cross contamination and the products
so strict that even many kosher consumers do not understand
would not be given
the extent of the
a kosher symbol. An
label’s meaning;
Symbol
most
often
found
on
foods
purchased:
example especially
however they highly
relevant to those
respect its presence
with a dairy allergy,
on their purchased
as well as strict
foods. According
vegans, are products
to the Wall Street
labeled as “nonJournal as quoted
dairy creamers.”
from OU materials,
According to the
“Often labels will
FDA, foods labeled
sport an O with a
as non-dairy may
U inside. This is the
still contain sodium
stamp of approval
caseinate, a milk
of the largest
derivative. This
kosher-certification
is why there are
body, and basically
often “non-dairy”
means there’s no
creamers that
need to read the
Source: Orthodox Union
contain the OUD
label.” It is easy
demarcation
specifically
for
dairy
products.
With the proper
to assume that since kosher consumers have such a respect
knowledge
of
the
OU
symbol,
every
individual,
not just
for the symbol already, there’s no need to market it further.
kosher
abiding,
can
keep
his
or
her
eye
peeled
for
the OU
However, it is not just Jewish people that look for the kosher
symbol
and
know
they
are
guaranteed
even
stricter
levels of
symbol. The Muslim community, the health conscious, the
regulation
than
the
U.S.
government
can
currently
provide.
lactose intolerant, vegan and just general foodies all look to
As Tom Dempsey, President, Utz Quality Foods said, “Today,
the symbol and have something to gain from its meaning.
many consumers are turning to kosher-certified products for
Although most people only know the most basic standards
allergen and health-related reasons. The OU symbol represents
set by kosher regulation, the entire process is actually very
the use of pure ingredients and has become a universal seal of
stringent. Some of the more commonly known rules that
approval.”
NPAinfo.org
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 17
for RETAILERS
Can Kosher Be for Everyone?
dietary SUPPLEMENTS
10 Fundamental Principles of GMPs
by Vicki Whitsitt
M
ore than six years after
the publication of the
FDA Good Manufacturing
Practices (GMPs) for dietary
supplements [21 CFR 111],
the industry continues to
grapple with the nuances of compliance. Many of the
FDA GMP provisions far exceeded the food quality
measures that industry had been adhering to for years
and the transition to these new requirements has
been challenging. However, while developing and
implementing newer internal processes, it’s important
that companies don’t lose sight of the basics of good
manufacturing practices – the fundamentals of a strong
internal GMP system.
j Develop Good SOPs
NPA’s GMP program defines a Standard Operating
Procedure (SOP) as, “A written authorized procedure,
which gives instructions for performing operations.”
SOPs outline the company-approved way to perform
a process, any and all processes, in a GMP compliant
manner. The benefits of using SOPs include consistent
finished product, reduction or elimination of mixup, errors, rework and scrap, as well as reducing or
eliminating employee confusion and establishing
consistent training for new & veteran employees. Wellwritten SOPs should answer the Who, What, Where,
Why, and How questions related to a procedure
or process. That is, they will provide step-by-step
instructions for performing processes and be mutually
understood by all personnel. They must be continually
reviewed and, when revised, can only be changed
using an authorized system that includes a review by
Quality personnel.
k Follow Your SOPs
You must follow your own procedures – remember
that once written and implemented, your internal
procedures are essentially an extension of the FDA
GMPs as they define how your company will meet
the GMP requirements. And it’s important to follow
your SOPs as they are written. If the SOP does not
accurately reflect what you are doing, correct it to
conform to actual performance. Continually review
18 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
your procedures and monitor compliance in this area
to ensure your company performance meets GMP
standards. Failure to “follow your procedure for…” is a
common FDA 483 observation during an inspection.
l Document Your Work
Documentation typically consists of records that
confirm SOPs are followed, but also includes forms and
other documentation related to process and control
information. 21 CFR 111 is replete with documentation
requirements, for example: you are required to have
records related to the cleaning, use and maintenance
of your facility, processing rooms and equipment;
documentation of supplier qualification; rationale for
reduced testing; master manufacturing and production
control records…and the list goes on.
Yes, GMPs generate a lot of paperwork (GMP = Great
Mounds of Paper). However, GMPs move on paper
and well-written procedures, following your SOPs, and
documenting your work (Principles #1, 2, and 3) are
areas that can have the greatest impact on improving
your internal quality systems and are necessary to
maintain GMP compliance. As the FDA is fond of
saying, “if it wasn’t written down, it didn’t happen.”
m Verification
Verification – by which we mean data to support
specifications are met, processes are in control, etc.
There must be adequate data, obtained through
appropriate sampling and scientifically valid
examinations or testing and other controls, to verify
your processes are under control and your raw
materials or finished products meet their established
specifications.
n Grounds and Facilities
Ensure your facility is of an adequate size, construction,
design, separation and space for the GMP-related
operations that are conducted. Consider lighting,
ventilation, air filtration, heating, cooling, dust
control. Have adequate pest control in place and be
aware of precautions that may be needed to protect
raw materials and finished products. You must have
a safe and sanitary water supply, adequate plumbing
system, and sewage disposal. You must have adequate
NPAinfo.org
A process is an action that can be repeated. It
is an organized method of converting input
(components) to outputs (finished product & related
documentation). Let’s consider what GMPs are about,
that is a framework of procedures and documentation
intended to systematically control your processes to
assure the product has the quality that it is represented
to possess. There are two key questions – 1) What can
be measured that will tell you your system is working
(under control)? and 2) What can you measure that
will tell you when your system is not working (out of
control)? It’s vital that you understand and manage the
variables in your processes to ensure a GMP compliant
performance.
rest rooms and hand-washing facilities. Maintain your
grounds and facility to prevent contamination of
components, finished products & contact surfaces.
o Equipment
Equipment must be of appropriate design,
construction and workmanship with smooth bonded
seams, made of non-toxic, corrosion-resistant
materials. This equipment must be properly installed,
adequately cleaned / sanitized, and properly
maintained and calibrated. It’s important to remember
auxiliary equipment and cleaning equipment, i.e. fans,
dehumidifiers, wet/dry vacuums, hoses, conduits,
piping, mops, buckets.
p Personnel
Personnel must have appropriate and adequate
education, experience and training to perform their
assigned functions, including any functions related to
quality control operations. You must identify personnel
responsible for quality control operations and their
job description must have distinct responsibilities
for performing quality control operations separate
from any other responsibilities. You must also have
established precautionary measures for excluding
personnel who might be a source of microbial
contamination and requirements for hygienic practices.
NPAinfo.org
Keep in mind that while testing plays an important
role in assuring quality—from testing of raw materials
to finished product—you cannot test quality into
products. Rather, testing should be used to verify that
your GMP controls are functioning as they should.
r Warehousing and
Distribution Operations
Don’t overlook the GMP requirements for warehousing
and distribution operations. For example, you must
establish SOPs for your warehousing and distribution
operations, you must follow your SOPs and document
your work (again, Principles #1, 2, and 3). You must
have personnel that are qualified for their respective
jobs. Your warehouse/distribution facilities and
equipment must be clean; well-maintained; and of
adequate size, construction, design, and space for the
GMP-related operations that are conducted therein.
s Monitor Compliance
The final, but important, principle of a strong GMP
program is monitoring compliance. Conduct regular
internal audits and bring in third-party auditors to
evaluate conformance to GMP requirements, company
SOPs, and related paperwork. Monitoring compliance
identifies areas of strengths / weakness and it provides
a tool for continual assessment and improvement.
NPA offers regular education and training on GMP
compliance. Visit NPAinfo.org/GMP for upcoming events.
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 19
dietary SUPPLEMENTS
q Systematically Control
Processes
the NATURAL seal
The Need for Truly Natural Products
by Joy Akins
H
ere at NPA, the message is coming through loud and clear – consumers want natural cosmetics. The
table below from SPINS demonstrates the popularity of personal care products marketed as “natural”
with the grand total showing an almost 20% increase in sales over last year.
Sales of “Natural” Personal Care Products
Natural Channel
Specialty Supermarket
Food/Drug/Mass Market
Grand Total
Year Ago
$294,067,094
$26,413,364
$917,610,147
$1,238,090,605
Current Year
$334,268,246
$29,579,135
$1,118,498,053
$1,482,345,434
% Change
13.7%
12.0%
21.9%
19.7%
However, consumers may not be purchasing the truly natural products they are seeking. Since the FDA
doesn’t define natural for the personal care industry, it is up to the companies to define natural for
themselves. While companies have the best intentions, they might not understand what truly natural
means. That is, a company may think that because their ingredients come from a natural source that
it makes their product natural too. What they aren’t taking into account is how the naturally-sourced
ingredients are processed or what additives are included.
The NPA Natural Seal program not only looks at the source of each ingredient, but how they are
processed, refined, and preserved. NPA certified products give the consumer the most natural ingredients
in the product they are purchasing. No harsh chemicals, parabens, polysorbates, PEGs, glycols,
dimethicone, phthalates, formaldehyde donors, or synthetic fragrances.
The table below shows the sales of NPA certified products over the past year.
Sales of NPA Certified Personal Care Products
®
Year Ago
Current Year
Natural Channel
$6,498,178
$6,755,093
Specialty Supermarket
$1,590,273
$1,713,808
Food/Drug/Mass Market
$78,329,684
$85,337,635
Grand Total
$86,418,135
$93,806,536
% Change
4.0%
7.8%
8.9%
8.5%
While the sales of NPA certified products has experienced 8.5% growth over the
last year, we want to match the growth of all natural products. To ensure you are
providing truly natural products to your customers, you need to look for and stock
products that have the NPA Natural Seal. Without the seal there is no way to know
if you are actually receiving the natural product you are seeking. Additionally, if
you have a product that you believe is natural, ask that company to certify to the
NPA Natural Seal. Go to www.thenaturalseal.org to see the complete list of
certified products.
20 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
NPA Members Share News
One of four plant-based Omega-3
formulations, CHIA OMEGA® + Vitamin
D3, recently launched by Essential Formulas
Incorporated has been honored for its use
of high-protein Chia seed oil combined
with key dietary and antioxidant support for
optimum health and convenience.
Derived from high-protein Chia seeds
documented to offer more ALA Omega-3
than fish or flax seed oil, Chia seed oil
is considered to be one of the planet’s
richest and most sustainable sources
of this essential fatty acid (EFA). These
revolutionary products not only support
a healthy Omega-3-to-6 ratio, but also
augment with additional synergetic
ingredients for a consumer’s individual
health goals.
Honored with a “Best of Supplements
Award” in the New Supplement category,
CHIA OMEGA® + Vitamin D3, a certified
vegetarian product, is leading the way in
combining cold-pressed Chia seed oil with
highly bioavailable Vitamin D3. Known
to support both bone health and healthy
mood, Vitamin D3 is a synergetic addition
to Omega-3, known to help support healthy
heart function and mental cognition.
“We knew there was a market for a fish oil
alternative and are excited to be able to
offer a vegetarian Omega-3 option that not
only eliminates fishy aftertaste, but is also is
believed to be a better Omega-3 overall,”
said Michael Schoor, CEO and President of
EFI.
In its sixth year presenting the “Best of
Supplements Award,” Better Nutrition
Magazine selected the winners from
manufacturer nominations, natural health
retailer’s survey and input from the Better
Nutrition’s Advisory Board, which consists
of naturopathic practitioners, journalists
and staff. For more information on all the
CHIA OMEGA Formulations visit www.
CHIAOMEGA.com.
The award was presented during Natural
Products Expo East, September 26-28 in
Baltimore, Md.
NPAinfo.org
NOW Foods Introduces Gluten-free, NonGMO line
NOW® Foods, member since 1974, has introduced a line of
certified gluten-free allergy- friendly, non-GMO foods to meet
the growing demand for these types of foods. The Living
Now™ line is produced in a dedicated gluten-free, allergyfriendly facility and is made without the eight major allergens
including dairy, eggs, soy, wheat, nuts, and fish. The products
are certified gluten-free and kosher.
“As more people become aware of their food sensitivities
or choose a gluten-free diet, it is important that they have a
trusted source of pure, wholesome, natural foods that taste
great,” said David Rosenberg, Living Now Category Manager.
“We will continue to expand the Living Now line to include
more foods that are certified gluten-free and kosher, with
many certified organic as well.”
Living Now products currently available include White Rice
Flour, Organic Brown Rice Flour, Tapioca Flour, Organic
Amaranth and Organic Quinoa. All of these ingredients allow
people with food sensitivities to enjoy modified versions of
their favorite foods without sacrificing taste or texture. New
products expected to be introduced over the next few months
include Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Mix, Chocolate Chip
Cookie Mix, Baking / Pancake Mix, Organic Fudge Brownie
Mix, and All-Purpose Flour. For more information please visit
LivingNowFoods.com.
NOW Foods Wins Chicago Workplace
Award
The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has
again recognized NOW® Foods as one of Chicago’s 101 Best
and Brightest Companies to Work For, an annual competition
that honors companies demonstrating an exceptional
commitment to their employees and exemplifying the best
human resource practices. This is the sixth year in a row NOW
has received this designation.
Each company’s entry is evaluated by an independent research
firm based on key measures in various categories which include
Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Employee
Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education
and Development; Recruitment, Selection and Orientation;
Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication
and Shared Vision; Diversity and Inclusion; Work-Life Balance;
Community Initiatives; Strategic Company Performance and
the Best of the Best Small Business.
“Although we have received this award a number of times,
it still feels terrific to know that our people are happy here
and consider NOW a great place to work,” said Jim Emme,
president of NOW Foods. “We’ve added 200 new jobs over the
last year, which could be disruptive, but the employees are so
invested in the company that they have made the growth fairly
seamless. I am so proud of them all.”
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 21
MEMBER news
Essential Formulas’
Wins Better Nutrition
Magazine’s “Best of
Supplements Award”
REGIONAL update
NPA Southwest
S
ave the Date for March 22 and 23, 2014: The Southwest
region’s HEALTHFEST 2014 committee has confirmed 6
speakers for the Education Day on Saturday and 1 speaker
at the Sunday Breakfast. Speakers are being sponsored
by Europharma, Bluebonnet Nutrition, Kehe Distributors,
Newton Homeopathics, Essential Formulas, Genesis Today,
and Michael’s Naturopathic Formulas. The two day event
will be held in Irving, Texas, Saturday, March 22 and Sunday,
March 23, 2014. The region’s Annual Board Meeting will be
held at this time.
Rhonda Bone, outgoing regional President was presented an
award for her four years of service to the National Board at
the recent meeting held in Baltimore by Jeff Wright, outgoing
National NPA President. Visit www.npasouthwest.org for
more information.
NPA East
NPA Midwest
The NPA Midwest Region is busy so far this fall gearing up for
our 2014 Member campaigns both for retailers and suppliers,
as well as confirming speakers, sponsors and exhibitors for the
2014 NPA Midwest “Summer Splash” Convention & MAHO
Expo, July 18-20, 2014 at the beautiful Hilton Columbus at
Easton in Columbus, Ohio. For more information on NPA
Midwest membership, retail and supply services, state
legislative advocacy, educational programming, and the 2014
show and convention, call Marcy and Diane at 1-800-795-6246.
Visit www.npamidwest.org for the most current regional
information.
NPA Southeast
The Southeast NPA is full
speed ahead for its 42nd
SOHO EXPO to be held
December 5-8, 2013 in
Orlando. The website is filling
up with information about
the show, including retail
registration for the show and
hotel; a listing of this year’s
show and meal sponsors; our
host hotel rebate program for
qualified retailers; and even
how to save on Disney tickets. Visit www.southeastnpa.com
for more information.
Join the NPA East Advocacy
Committee! The group is
composed of a handful of
volunteers and the region’s
Executive Director, Paul Kushner.
On a daily basis, they keep track
of legislative activities in the 11
states that comprise the East
region plus Washington, D.C. You
can help by volunteering an hour
or so of your time every couple
of weeks to keep an eye on the
legislatures in your state. It’s easy.
And they’ll provide you with all
the tools you need. The end result
of being the eyes and ears on
pending legislation is priceless.
Interested in helping NPA East
protect your interests? Contact
NPA East at [email protected].
NPA Northwest
The Northwest region held its annual Natural Products North West
trade show Oct. 18-20 in Seattle Wash. For more information on the
region visit www.npanw.org or call 360-379-2805.
NPA NW supports I-522 and your right to know what’s in your food.
Washington State voters, this November it is up to us to decide - vote
“Yes” on 522 to label genetically engineered foods.
22 Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013
NPAinfo.org
If you would like more information about the Natural Products
Association and the services we provide, please contact us at the
email addresses or phone numbers below.
1773 T Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 223-0101, (800) 966-6632
Fax: (202) 223-0250
[email protected]
www.NPAinfo.org
Executive Office, Finance &
Administration
John Shaw, Executive Director and CEO
Leads the association, the headquarters office, and all programs
within established guidelines.
[email protected]
(202) 204-4721
Brent Weickert, Senior Vice President/CFO
Responsible for accounting, finance, human
resources, information and communication systems,
and administration.
[email protected]
(202) 503-1960
Vicki Whitsitt, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs Manager
Manages GMP certification and science education programs.
[email protected]
(202) 503-1961
Membership
Gabrielle Alahouzos, Vice President of Member Services
Oversees membership recruitment, retention, marketing,
communications, member benefits and services.
[email protected]
(202) 204-4724
Billie Dee Tate, Membership Manager
Manages membership retention and member programs.
Oversees member invoicing and maintains NPA website and
membership database.
[email protected]
(202) 223-0101, ext. 107
Colleen Rood, Membership Sales Manager
Membership recruitment and retention. Provides customer
service support for current members.
[email protected]
(202) 503-1962
Denise Johnson, Accounting and Office Manager
Maintain day-to-day financial accounting, consistent with
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and
approved budgets.
[email protected]
(202) 204-4723
Fax (202) 223-0250 Communications
Scientific & Regulatory Affairs
Marketing
Cara Welch, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of
Scientific and Regulatory Affairs
Oversees quality assurance programs, helps members
implement policies in response to government regulations.
Works with FDA officials and other agencies.
[email protected]
(202) 204-4726
Meg Mader, Director of Marketing
Oversees all marketing projects and member email
communications. Manages NPA’s presence at industry events
and trade shows.
[email protected]
(202) 204-4747 Lauren Cohen, Communications Manager
Manages traditional and social media outreach. Coordinates all
print and electronic member communications.
[email protected]
(202) 223-0101, ext. 104
Joy Akins, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs Manager
Manages TruLabel and Natural Seal certification programs.
[email protected]
(202) 503-1963
NOW
Editor: Meg Mader
Graphic Designer: Meg Mader
Contributing Staff: Joy Akins, Lauren Cohen,
Billie Dee Tate, Cara Welch, Vicki Whitsitt
Send inquiries to the Natural Products Association at:
1773 T Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009
(800) 966-6632 Fax: (202) 223-0250
E-mail: [email protected]
The views and opinions presented by contributors to
Natural Products Association Now are their own and not
necessarily those of the Natural Products Association.
Further, the Natural Products Association makes no
warranty or representation as to the accuracy or
sufficiency of the information contributed by outside
sources, and assumes no responsibility or liability
regarding the use of such information.
Natural Products Association NOW September/October 2013 23
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Contact NPA
The NPA Member Advantage
As a member of NPA, you have access to a variety of
member benefits designed specifically to fit your needs.
WORKPLACE
FedEx Shipping: Save up to
70 percent off select shipping services.
Payroll Processing: Save 15 percent
with Paychex.
OfficeMax Products & Services:
Save from 31 to 88 percent off office
products and services.
Credit Card Processing: Save on
payment processing with TSYS Merchant
Solutions.
Health Insurance: Discounts from
Assurance Agency.
Safety all
®
INTERNATIONAL
Grifcon Enterprises Insurance:
Product liability and excess liability
insurance for suppliers.
UPS Freight & UPS Air Freight:
Receive special savings on less-thantruckload (LTL), truckload and air freight
shipments.
Lenovo Computer Products: Save
up to 20 percent off laptops, tablets,
desktops, accessories and more.
YRC Freight: Save at least 70 percent on
qualifying less-than-truckload
(LTL) shipments.
HP Business Products: Special
pricing on a wide range of business
technology products.
Nutrasource Diagnostics:
Save on research and regulatory
consulting services.
Commercial Insurance for Natural
Products Retailers: Exclusive savings
by Kapatoes Insurance.
Intercall Audio and Web
Conferencing: Special pricing on
audio and web conferencing services.
Kosher Certification: Special discount
and free publicity from OU Kosher.
AER Assistance: Reduced rates for
managing AERs and reporting them to
the FDA from SafetyCall.
New Member Marketing: Tools to
promote your membership in NPA and
your commitment to the industry.
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2/12/13 2:58 PM
The Organic Social Club: Complimentary
first month’s subscription, plus 20
percent off monthly subscription fees.
KOSHER
CERTIFICATION
SERVICE
To get the most out of your membership, visit www.NPAinfo.org and log on to find out more about
these benefits and how they can work for you.
NPA understands that the success of your business depends partly on your ability to manage costs
and hopes that you find these additional member savings opportunities helpful to your business.
As always, you can contact NPA directly with questions or comments about these and other
member services at [email protected].