July - Natural Products Association

TODAY
Timely Communications
from the National Nutritional Foods Association
DEFEAT S. 1137
Senate Seeks to
Outlaw DHEA
L
egislation was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate—and is expected in the
House—that would remove the safe and beneficial dietary supplement DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) from the marketplace by re-classifying it as an anabolic steroid.
When it was passed last year, the Anabolic Steroid Control Act placed certain steroid
hormone precursors, such as androstenedione (andro), under the Controlled Substances
Act. But the industry and consumers fought hard to make sure this same legislation contained a provision that specifically exempted DHEA from being reclassified as a controlled
substance. Now, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), despite the fact that he co-sponsored
the 2004 bill exempting DHEA, has introduced S. 1137 with the sole purpose of adding it
to the controlled substance schedule.
To help ensure that S. 1137 and potential bills like it in the House are defeated,
NNFA, the Coalition to Preserve DSHEA, Save Our Supplements and other industry
groups have launched a multi-pronged grassroots and congressional education effort.
Already, tens of thousands of letters and e-mails have been sent to senators and representatives sending the message that DHEA is not an anabolic steroid but a naturally occurring hormone with a wide range of benefits, particularly for older Americans.
“DHEA has wrongly been caught up in the legislative fervor in Congress over athletes
and anabolic steroids,” said David Seckman, NNFA’s executive director and CEO. “The
fact is that DHEA does not have the characteristics of an anabolic steroid nor the potential for abuse.”
While S. 1137 has yet to move beyond the Senate Judiciary Committee, under Senate rules it could be added at any time as an amendment to other legislation.
NNFA continues to urge members and others to contact their senators and representatives to oppose any measures to remove DHEA from the marketplace. To send a free email or fax, visit NNFA’s Advocacy Action Center by going to www.nnfa.org and clicking
the “Write to Congress” button. ❦
INSIDE
Look
for19,
the
next
issue
of
Volume
No.
7 / July
2005
NNFA Today coming in
September!
Legal Q&A: Product Recalls
Page 3
Science News: Vitamin B2 Beats Migraines
Page 5
Food and Nutrition News: Herbs to Sing About Page 8
NNFA 2005 Closing
Keynote Announced
N
Dr. Landrigan
directs the
NFA is proud to announce Philip J.
Landrigan, M.D., M.Sc., chair of the
Mount Sinai
department of community and preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of MedCenter for
icine in New York, will give the Closing
Children’s
Keynote address, Toxic Chemicals and Children's Health: The Problem and the Solution, at
Health and
NNFA 2005, in Las Vegas, Nev. Dr. Landrithe Environgan is also Ethel H. Wise Professor of the
department, holds a professorship in pediment
atrics at the school, directs the Mount Sinai
Center for Children’s Health and the Environment, and has extensive background,
expertise, and experience
in occupational and environmental health. A
nationally recognized preventive medicine and
occupational medicine
physician, he has published
more than 100 scientific
articles in the peer- Dr. Philip J. Landrigan
reviewed medical literature
and co-authored, or edited numerous chapters and books on occupational and environmental health. He is editor-in-chief of the
American Journal of Industrial Medicine and
was editor of the journal Environmental
Research. His primary areas of expertise and
interests include preventive medicine, occupational and environment health, toxicology,
and tropical medicine.
Dr. Landrigan has held positions at
numerous health agencies including epi(Continued on page 14)
DIRECTIONS
NNFA’s Greatest
Member Benefit
A
by David Taylor
NNFA President-Elect
David Taylor
2
n association is its members. That
seems like such a simple statement.
The longer version, however, reveals a
much more compelling sense of that relationship: An association can’t reach its full
potential or effectiveness without the participation of its members. In other words, as
NNFA members, we have the power to
shape our association into whatever we feel it
needs to be. And we do this by taking advantage of the greatest member benefit NNFA
has to offer: the opportunity to volunteer.
I often hear fellow retailers say they are
in this industry because it’s their passion.
Dietary supplements, or organic foods, or
natural cosmetics at some point changed
their lives for the better. They do not just
believe in the products, they’ve experienced
their positive impact first-hand and want
to share it with others. They’ve become
passionate about it. I know I am, and one of
the best ways I’ve found to extend the aims
of my passion is to become more involved
in NNFA.
One option you have to become more
active is to join one of NNFA’s several committees. Committee members not only determine the structure and future of the
association, but also keep the association
focused on accomplishing goals that are
meaningful and lasting for the natural products community. Whether that’s deciding
how best to fight potentially destructive and
support potentially valuable legislation, or
develop educational programs and effective
communications tools retailers can share
www.nnfa.org
We have the power to shape
our association into whatever
we feel it needs to be
with their customers, it is a committee that
decides how to achieve them. NNFA has
committees at the national and regional levels for which one can volunteer at different
times during the year.
Advocacy efforts have become one of
the most important services NNFA offers
because we members have the biggest stake
in legislative outcomes. Programs in this area
are entirely dependent on member participation. For example, the NNFA Political
Action Committee (PAC) gives us the
chance to pool our resources in order to have
a larger and more concentrated voice in the
political process. Local activism is also a critical component of advocacy activities.
Becoming part of NNFA’s Grassroots Action
Network empowers you to effectively represent industry on the grassroots level. If you
really want to make an impression on lawmakers, lobbying them face-to-face at
NNFA’s Natural Foods Day is an incredibly
rewarding way to do it. So you see, NNFA
provides ample opportunities to get involved;
we, the members, have to take them in order
to succeed as a united industry.
Some may wonder how it is possible to
balance the demanding schedule of work
with the responsibilities of volunteering. For
me, as a natural products retailer, it is almost
impossible to not relate one with the other. I
recently read in a magazine the following:
“To volunteer is to be committed to a cause.”
I thought immediately how easily such an
assertion fits in to the lifestyle of the natural
products professional. Volunteering is a logical step among people like us—people who
start businesses, dedicate our time to helping
others, sometimes even change our lives
because we are committed to a cause.
And let me assure you, the benefits of
volunteering extend beyond influencing how
NNFA is run. One of the best perks I’ve
found is the relationships it has cultivated. In
my time serving on NNFA’s board of
directors, both in the Southeast region and at
the national level, I have made friends with
people who truly share my passion. I begin
my two-year presidency this month and I
can’t wait to start. This position will simply
be a continuation of the wonderful opportunities I’ve already had working with my
peers toward a common goal of protecting
and advancing this great industry. And in
doing so, I know that along the way, I’ll
establish even more lasting friendships and
valuable partnerships.
Please take it to heart when I repeat that,
in my personal experience, volunteering has
truly been the greatest benefit of belonging
to NNFA. If you are interested in turning
your passion into a more fulfilling role, I
strongly urge you to look into one of these
volunteering opportunities. If you're reading
this column at NNFA 2005, please stop by
NNFA's booth (816) to learn more about
becoming a part of the grassroots network
and other opportunities. ❦
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
REGULATORY & LEGISLATIVE NEWS
By Sidley Austin Brown & Wood, NNFA General Counsel
Q
A
Product Recalls
Why are dietary supplement products
sometimes the subject of a recall?
A recall occurs when a company pulls a defective or possibly harmful consumer product off the market. In most
cases, the manufacturers or distributors of the product carry out
the recall voluntarily. By law, FDA does not have the power to
order a recall of any products (including prescription drugs and
foods) other than infant formula, medical devices and human
biologics. However, FDA is usually informed of the company’s
initiation of the recall and thereafter is involved in ensuring
that appropriate procedures are followed.
Q
A
A recall
RECALLED
Q
A
What are FDA’s “classifications” for recalled
products?
FDA has three different classifications for recalls. The
classification is a reflection of the severity of the problem.
A Class I recall is for dangerous or defective products that
could predictably cause serious health problems or death.
Examples of such recalls include the prescience of botulism, or
a food with undeclared allergens. A Class II recall is one that
might cause a temporary health problem or pose only a slight
threat of risk of a serious nature. A Class III recall is for products that are unlikely to cause any adverse health reaction but
that violate FDA’s labeling or manufacturing regulations.
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
a company
pulls a defective
or possibly
harmful
Why is FDA involved in the recalls if they are
voluntary?
FDA has regulations that provide how a recall should be
implemented for a company that voluntarily decides to
do one. For example, FDA provides categorization or “classifications” of recalls. FDA also lays out rules defining “effectiveness checks” and dictating how effective a recall needs to be
depending on the classification. Under these regulations, companies are expected to notify FDA when the recalls are started,
to make progress reports to FDA on recalls and to undertake
recalls when asked to do so by the agency. Typically, a company
will work with their local FDA district office on a recall.
occurs when
consumer
Q
A
What should retailers do when they receive
notice of a recall from a manufacturer or
distributor?
product off
the market
In most cases, a manufacturer or distributor will explain
exactly what should be done. Typically, the manufacturer
or distributor will ask that the product be pulled off the shelf
and either sent back to the company for a refund or replacement, or retained until a sales representative from the company comes to pick the product up. Retailers should follow
these instructions carefully. Often times FDA and the company are making spot checks at stores to assure that the product is being recalled appropriately.
Q
A
What should retailers tell their customers
about recalls?
We recommend that a retailer direct all questions regarding a recalled product to the manufacturer or distributor
or the person responsible for recalling the product. While a
retailer may get some information regarding the reason for the
recall in any notification received, it may not include all the
facts or details. There may be a notice to be placed in the store
(Continued on page 12)
www.nnfa.org
3
REGULATORY & LEGISLATIVE NEWS
NNFA: State and
Federal Industry
Watchdog
NNFA keeps
close tabs on
any bill that
the Dietary Supple
m
1545,
H.R. Meal Replacement Tax ent an
d
P
lthy
a
e
etary Supplem arity A
H
he Di
ct
t
e
,
nt
irness Act
486
. 2 Tax Fa
ll
R
.
A ct
EA Fu
H
DSH rcement
fo
, th e
H.R. 161, the Health
48 5 a n d E n
2
y
.
n
a
l
t
e
H hy P e o
H.R ntatio
ple Choi
Ac c
me
t
ple
Im
might impact
the industry as
es
,
it moves
YLVANIA HOUSE BILL 995
PENNS
through the
S. 1137
LOUISIANA SENATE B
ILL
18
9
legislative
process
E
nsuring that the natural products industry is not saddled with
unwanted regulations or misses an opportunity to support beneficial legislation, NNFA constantly monitors state and federal
bills. From the moment it is filed, NNFA keeps close tabs on any bill
that might impact the industry as it moves through the legislative
process. Since only a small percentage of legislation introduced sees
action, NNFA members often only hear about those bills that have
a real chance of moving forward. For instance, NNFA is currently
tracking about 300 state and federal bills, although only a handful
have prompted action.
NNFA becomes engaged in the federal legislative process as
issues that affect manufacturers, retailers, and consumers of natural
products arise. This involvement ranges from lobbying members of
Congress to support NNFA positions, encouraging grassroots supporters to persuade their lawmakers to support natural products, and
contributing campaign donations to key legislators through NNFA’s
political action committee.
Currently, NNFA is working to support and oppose several
pieces of legislation introduced in Congress that would affect the
natural products industry. NNFA urges members to compel their
lawmakers to support H.R. 161, the Healthy Choices, Healthy People Act; H.R. 1545, the Dietary Supplement and Healthy Meal
Replacement Tax Parity Act; H.R. 2485, the DSHEA Full Imple-
4
www.nnfa.org
mentation and Enforcement Act; and H.R. 2486, the Dietary Supplement Tax Fairness Act. We also urge members to express their
opposition to S. 1137, which would ban the use of DHEA under
federal law, despite the substance’s proven health benefits for seniors
and lack of use for performance enhancement in professional sports.
In addition to monitoring legislative activity at the federal
level, NNFA tracks state legislation and works in tandem with
seven regional offices to identify and, in some cases, help respond to,
harmful or beneficial state bills. Although it is ultimately the
responsibility of the regional offices to decide their positions on
pressing issues—and their approach to promoting these positions—
the national association office works hand-in-hand with the
regional offices to develop a successful, multifaceted response. This
response includes lobbying of key state legislators, conducting
specific outreach to the bill sponsors, and informing NNFA
members and activists about the threats or opportunities posed by
relevant bills.
In fact, NNFA encourages immediate action by dietary supplement consumers and businesses on several bills pending in state legislatures currently. For instance, in Pennsylvania, activists are
needed to fight House Bill 995, which would put all dietary supplement sales behind the counter. And in Louisiana, a strong grassroots
response coupled with assertive action by the Southwest region
resulted in changes to a bill harmful to natural products retailers
there. Before NNFA intervention, S.B. 189 could have placed onerous reporting burdens on retailers sharing information with their
customers about the foods and dietary supplements they sell.
This bill would force anyone who receives a “consulting fee” for
providing information about supplements or foods to issue a statement to their customer that includes detailed information about
their business and educational background.
This proactive relationship between NNFA and its regional
offices is essential to maintaining access to safe, affordable natural
products. To learn more about NNFA’s advocacy at the state and
federal levels, including any legislation requiring action, visit
NNFA’s Advocacy Action Center at www.capwiz.com/nnfa/home/.
To contact your regional office or learn which region represents your
state, go to www.nnfa.org/aboutnnfa/offices/index.htm. ❦
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
SCIENCE NEWS
Vitamin B2 Beats Migraines
From Healthnotes Newswire, a news service of Healthnotes, Inc.
S
upplementing with relatively small amounts of riboflavin
(vitamin B2) may reduce the frequency and severity of
migraines in chronic sufferers, reports a study in Headache
(2004, vol.44: 885–890). Previous studies showing that
riboflavin can prevent migraines used 400 milligrams per day,
which is at least 200 times the amount in a typical diet. In the
new study, 25 milligrams per day appeared to be effective.
Riboflavin was originally considered for migraine prevention because researchers observed that migraine sufferers tend to
have impaired energy production in brain cells, which riboflavin
has the potential to enhance as it is a component of a key substance involved in the body’s energy production. Another nutrient important for producing energy (magnesium) has already
been shown to reduce migraine recurrence. In earlier studies
with riboflavin, a very high dose was chosen, presumably to give
the vitamin the best chance of working. While riboflavin does
not appear to cause any significant adverse effects even at high
doses, it is possible that taking large amounts of any single nutrient might cause subtle imbalances in body chemistry. For that
reason, if lower doses are equally effective, they are preferable to
higher amounts.
Fifty-two people suffering from recurrent migraines participated in the three-month study. They were randomly assigned
to receive either a daily combination of riboflavin (400 mil-
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
ligrams), magnesium (300 milligrams), and the herb feverfew
(100 milligrams), or 25 milligrams of riboflavin per day. Each of
the three components of the combination product has been
shown in earlier research to reduce the recurrence rate of
migraines. A positive response was defined as a reduction in the
frequency of migraines by 50 percent or more. Forty-two percent
of participants responded to combination therapy and 44 percent responded to low-dose riboflavin. In addition, the average headache severity and the
number of days with tension headaches
decreased significantly in the low-doseriboflavin group, but not in the group receiving
combination therapy.
Because there was no control group in the
new study, one cannot rule out the possibility
that the beneficial effects of low-dose riboflavin
were due to a placebo effect. However, the
researchers considered that possibility unlikely,
because the effects of riboflavin were greater
than those found with a placebo in previous
migraine studies.
In addition to riboflavin, magnesium, and
feverfew, coenzyme Q10 has been found in one
preliminary trial to reduce the recurrence rate
of migraines. Dietary factors also appear to be important
migraine triggers in susceptible people. For some, tyramine-containing foods such as certain wines and aged cheeses are the
main offenders. For others, allergic reactions to common foods
such as wheat, oranges, egg, coffee, tea, and beef seem to be the
main triggers. ❦
The average
headache
severity and
the number
of days with
tension
headaches
decreased
significantly in
the low-doseriboflavin
group
—Alan R. Gaby, MD
®
Healthnotes Inc. (HNI,
www.healthnotes.com) is
the premier provider of reliable, easy-to-use health, food, and lifestyle information for Web sites and interactive touchscreen kiosks. Used by leading supermarkets, pharmacies, and natural product stores in the United States, Canada,
and the United Kingdom, Healthnotes® Retail Solutions empowers consumers
to make educated decisions and drives product sales—online and in-store. HNI
also generates Web applications that are licensed to e-commerce and healthrelated Internet sites worldwide.
www.nnfa.org
5
SCIENCE NEWS
Science Briefs
Calcium May
Lower Effects
of PMS
When testing
memory,
participants
taking folic
acid scored
comparably well
to people five
and a half years
younger
A diet rich in calcium can lower the
risk of developing
premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in
women by as much
as 40 percent,
according to a report
published in the
June 13 issue of the
Archives of Internal Medicine (2005, vol.165: 1246-1252) by
researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The latest findings support earlier studies that found calcium supplements
and vitamin D to aid in reducing the occurrence and severity of
PMS in women. In the study, researchers gathered and compared
data from participants in the Nurses Health Study II — 1,057 who
had developed PMS over a 10-year period with 1,968 women who
did not develop PMS. The most substantial results were seen in
women introducing 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 500 international units of vitamin D into their diet per day. They experienced
a 40 percent lower risk of having PMS than women who consumed
less dietary calcium and vitamin D.
Folic Acid Aids Memory in Aging Brains
A new Dutch study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association’s
Washington D.C. conference in June indicates that folic acid may
help slow the cognitive decline sometimes associated with aging.
The study included 818 cognitively healthy people ages 50 to 75
who were put either on a supplementation of 800 micrograms of
folic acid or placebo for three years. When testing memory, participants taking folic acid scored comparably well to people five and a
half years younger. When testing cognitive speed, study participants
taking folic acid performed as well as subjects nearly two years
younger. The study adds another benefit to folic acid’s good reputation. Research has already shown a proven effect on reducing birth
defects and suggested it helps ward off heart disease and strokes.
Cauliflower May Help Battle Breast Cancer
According to a report in the June issue of The Journal of Nutrition
(2005, vol.135: 1503-1509), scientists at the University of Urbino
may have discovered a mechanism of action by which cauliflower
may offer protection against breast cancer. The Italian study looked
into the anti-proliferative activity of juice from the leaves of different varieties of cauliflowers and discovered that the compounds
favored targeting breast cancer cells. The varieties tested suppressed
cell development depending on dosage; the higher the concentration of cauliflower juice, the greater death among cancer cells. Cauliflower is a member of the Brassicaceae family that includes brussels
sprouts and broccoli. ❦
Education Event
NNFA Announces Web Conference for Final GMP Rule
Within 72 hours of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) publication of a final regulation on
good manufacturing practices (GMPs) for dietary supplements—which could occur at any time—
NNFA will hold a Web conference highlighting the most important and pressing aspects of the rule.
The conference is ideal for those involved with regulatory affairs, production, quality assurance/
control, and legal functions.
For more information about this event,
please visit www.nnfa.org/services/training/webcast.htm
6
www.nnfa.org
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
SCIENCE NEWS
Anti-atherosclerotic Properties
of Pomegranate Juice
This literature summary is part of the HerbClip, an educational mailing service of the American Botanical Council
P
omegranate (Punica granatum) juice consumption was
recently shown to have anti-atherosclerotic effects in both
healthy humans and in atherosclerotic mice, which may
be related to its anti-oxidative properties. Tannins were identified as the active ingredient responsible for this effect.
Patients with hypertension, a known risk
factor for the development of atherosclerosis, have elevated plasma
rennin–angiotensin activity.
Clinical studies have shown
that angiotensin converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can
significantly decrease the
morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular disease, even in the absence of blood
pressure lowering. The mechanism
by which ACE inhibitors affect atherosclerotic disease is unclear; however, it is thought that they have
multiple effects, including blood pressure lowering, anti-proliferative effects on vascular cells, inhibitory effects on platelet
aggregation, and inhibitory effects on lipid peroxidation.
Because some antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene,
and coenzyme Q) were recently shown to have blood pressurelowering effects, the authors studied the effects of pomegranate
juice on blood pressure and ACE activity.
Ten hypertensive patients (seven men and three women)
aged 62–77 years with a mean (± SD) systolic blood pressure of
155 ± 7 mm Hg and a mean (± SD) diastolic blood pressure of
83 ± 7 mm Hg were studied. Eight of the patients were taking
ACE inhibitors and two were taking calcium channel blockers
at the time of study entry. The patients consumed 50 milliliters
of pomegranate juice per day, which provided 1.5 mmol total
polyphenols per day, for two weeks. ACE activity was measured
in serum samples collected before and two weeks after pomegranate juice consumption.
Serum ACE activity decreased by 36 percent in seven of the
10 patients after two weeks of pomegranate juice consumption.
To assess whether this decrease in ACE activity was a direct
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
effect of the pomegranate juice or whether it was a secondary
effect resulting from the antioxidant properties of pomegranate
juice, increasing concentrations of pomegranate juice were
added to human serum and incubated for 15 minutes at 37 °C.
A dose-dependent inhibitory effect on serum
ACE activity of up to 31 percent was
observed. The inhibitory effect of
pomegranate juice on serum
ACE activity may have
resulted from a direct interaction of the juice with
serum ACE or from a secondary effect associated
with the antioxidant
constituents of the juice,
such as complexed tannins.
Pomegranate juice consumption had a small (five percent) but significant (P < 0.05) lowering effect on systolic blood pressure.
The mean (± SD) systolic blood pressure of the 10 patients
decreased from 155 ± 7 at baseline (time 0) to 147 ± 10 after two
weeks of juice consumption.
The authors conclude that “the significant inhibitory
effect of pomegranate juice on serum ACE activity, reduction
in lipid peroxidation, and the minor attenuation in blood
pressure in hypertensive patients…suggests that pomegranate
juice consumption can offer a wide protection against cardiovascular diseases.” ❦
The authors
conclude pomegranate juice
consumption
can offer a
wide protection
against cardiovascular diseases
—Brenda Milot, ELS
The American Botanical Council provides
this summary and the above article as an
educational service. ABC does not warrant
that the data is accurate and correct, nor does
distribution of the enclosed article constitute
any endorsement of the information contained
or of the views of the authors.
To join ABC, call (512) 926-4900 or visit
www.herbalgram.org.
www.nnfa.org
7
FOOD & NUTRITION NEWS
Healthy Essentials
Healthy Essentials is aimed at providing member retailers with valuable health information. Please share this feature with your employees and customers.
A
fan of 1960s American music should instantly recognize these
herbs from the song “Scarborough Fair” popularized by the
famous folk duet, Simon and Garfunkel. The song dates back
to the medieval period, when the seaside port of Scarborough
attracted businessmen from all over England for a 45-day trade fair
in August. So that’s obscure reference number one. But knowing
that sheds a little light on the next obscure reference: that of the
seemingly random collection of herbs in the second line of every
stanza of the song.
PARSLEY,
SAGE,
Are you going to Scarborough Fair?
Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme.
Remember me to one who lives there.
She was once a true love of mine.
While these herbs today are most known as culinary flavorings,
people of the medieval period would have recognized their symbolism in a song sung by a jilted lover. They represent virtues the lover
hopes he and his would-be girlfriend will have in order to be
together again: parsley, an agent thought at the time to alleviate
physical and, more relevantly, spiritual bitterness; sage, a wellknown symbol of strength; rosemary, which had represented since
ancient Greece love itself, faithfulness, and remembrance; and
finally, thyme, a medieval symbol of courage.
Had this jilted lover been around today, with the current renaissance, so to speak, of natural remedies, he may have also mentioned that in suggesting that she have them handy, he was looking
out for his love’s health, as they happen to contain several nutrients
and have many purported therapeutic effects.
Parsley: Garnish Schmarnish
If your impression of this herb is limited to its marginalized role as a
bit of pretty greenery on the edge of your dinner plate, you’re missing out. One of the most common herbs, parsley has been grown all
over the world for thousands of years, enjoying various reputations
of benefits. Ancient Greeks wore crowns of parsley at banquets
because it was thought to stimulate the appetite, promote good
humor, and even ward off drunkenness.
Today, the tangy, slightly peppery herb is used primarily as a fla-
8
www.nnfa.org
ROSEMARY, &
THYME
voring and a garnish (though the original intent of including a sprig
on the dinner plate was hygienic—parsley is an excellent natural
breath freshener). While there are more than 30 varieties of parsley,
for culinary purposes, two are most popular: curly-leaf parsley and it’s
more strongly flavored cousin, flat-leaf, or Italian parsley. It is sold in
bunches and should be chosen for its bright-green leaves with no
signs of wilting.
Parsley is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, a good
source of folate, and acts as a diuretic, meaning it helps increase
the flow of urine. This can be beneficial in that passing more
urine helps remove infection-causing bacteria from the urinary
tract. The diuretic affect is also helpful in easing premenstrual
bloating by removing excess fluids from the body before they
cause discomfort.
Sage: The Cure-all?
A native Mediterranean herb, sage has been used for centuries for
both its culinary and medicinal uses. Its Latin name, Salvia, means
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
FOOD & NUTRITION NEWS
Herbs to
Sing About
“to cure,” which speaks to its prominent latter role. In fact, a
proverb from the southern region in France known as Provence
claims “he who has sage in his garden needs no doctor.” Traditionally, sage and its oil have been used to treat inflammations of the
oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. It has been employed topically
as an antiseptic and astringent, and internally as a tea for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, diarrhea, gastritis, tonsillitis, and sore throat.
Today, scientific studies have shown pharmacological potential of
sage ranging from its use as an antioxidant to an anti-inflammatory
and antibacterial agent.
And those are just the documented medicinal uses. In the
kitchen, sage is often added to many different dishes such as turkey,
pork, herbed biscuits, lima beans, peas, zucchini, and cream soups.
Usually available year-round, it is sold in small bunches. It has a
spicy, sharp flavor with a hint of musty mint.
“There’s Rosemary, That’s for Remembrance”
That is a line from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Spoken by Ophelia after her father’s death, it reflects the belief during the playwright’s time that rosemary was the symbol for remembrance. It was
an herb attached to many beliefs at that time and was also the symbol of love.
Rosemary is revered in traditional medicine for its healing properties. In fact, it is one of the oldest known medicinal herbs, with
claims from centuries ago that it enhanced mental function and
memory. Traditionally, it has also been used for its astringent, tonic,
carminative (gas-expelling), and antispasmodic properties. Modern
pharmacology documents marked antibacterial, antifungal, and
antiviral properties of rosemary as well as some potential anticancer
mechanisms. It is also an effective natural tick and flea repellent.
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
A recent study
that ranked the
antioxidant
values of 21
herbs and spices
Thyme for Some Courage
For ancient Greeks, thyme was the symbol for vigor. They observed
its stimulating effects of a tisane of the herb, especially among
older people, whose mental function it seemed to improve. In
the medieval period, women embroidered a branch of thyme
onto scarves worn by knights to give them courage before going
into battle.
There are several varieties of this mint-family member, garden
thyme being the most commonly used. It gives off a pungent minty,
light-lemon aroma. Other varieties include English, French, caraway-scented, and lemon thyme. It is a basic herb of French cuisine
and is integral to the bouquet garni—a bunch of herbs tied together
with string or placed in cheesecloth bag and used to flavor soups,
stews, and broths. Thyme, parsley and bay leaves make up the classic bouquet garni.
Thyme earned a reputation in traditional medicine as a digestive aid, antiseptic and wound healer. It is also said to ease coughs
and upper respiratory infections. A recent study that ranked the
antioxidant values of 21 herbs and spices found thyme among the
top ranking herbs—along with sage and rosemary (see page 6).
Considering all this evidence, the poor, jilted lover pleading
with those on their way to Scarborough Fair might have fared better if he would have just forgotten the girl and taken inspiration
from his herbal incantation to open an herbal pharmacy or an inn
with a tasty menu. But then, what would the rest of us listen to in
our college dormitory as we watch our lava lamps? ❦
found thyme
among the top
ranking herbs—
along with sage
and rosemary
Sources: GeoCities.com; History of Food by Maguelonne
Toussaint-Samat; New Foods for Healing by Selene Yeager
and the editors of Prevention Health Books; Healthnotes.com;
Epicurious.com
www.nnfa.org
9
TRADE SHOW NEWS
All these exhibitors. All in one place.
Join them at NNFA 2005
(Exhibiting companies and corresponding booth numbers as of June 16, 2005; show sponsors are indicated with boldface type)
4HealthyKids
553
A.L.A. Corporation
346
AAC Consulting Group/
Kendle
100
achievONE™
830
Afrumos, Natural & Organic
Cosmetics & Skin Care 460
Ahava North America
845
Aloe Farms, Inc.
1348
Aloe Life International, Inc.736
Aloecorp
521
Alta Health Products, Inc. 620
Alternative Medicine
646
Alternecare Health
Products
852
Amazing Grass
1052
American BioSciences Inc. 840
American Biotech Labs 1022
American Botanical
Council
1526
American Herbal Products
Association
222
American Holistic Health
Association
654
ANEW International
520
ANIPRON, A.C.
349
Anti-Aging Products
452
Aquagen International, Inc825
AquaGenus
1116
Arkopharma/
Health From The Sun 1148
Artemis Woman
446
Arthur Andrew Medical
538
Asia Sources, Inc.
459
Aubrey Organics, Inc.
1144
Avalon Natural Products 744
Ave Maria
International, LLC
941
Ayurceutics
1031
Azure Project Development,
Marketing & Distribution757
Barcharts, Inc.
223
Barlean’s
828
Barodon SF, Inc.
953
Basic Media Group
404
Basic Research
733
Bass Brushes
944
Better Nutrition
Magazine
1208
Betty Lou’s Inc.
1425
Bio Nutraceuticals
1316
BioCalth
International Corp.
637
Biocell Technologies, LLC 105
Biochem Sports & Fitness 600
Bioforce USA
1516
BioNeutra, Inc.
117
Bluebonnet
Nutrition Corp.
805
BNG Enterprises
1322
Body Care Resort, Inc.
850
BodyLogic Naturals
848
10
www.nnfa.org
Boulder Bar
425
BREVAIL
539
BRICKER LABS
329
bridge/eco
1446
Brighter Life Products
638
C.A.P.S. Inc.
101
CAG Functional Foods
207
California Natural Vitamin
Labs Inc.
1248
Cancer Control Society
121
CanPrev, LLC
421
Capsugel
200
Carbs A Weigh Inc.
1127
Carlson Laboratories, Inc. 400
CC Pollen Co
1318
Cellucor
327
Century Systems
720
Christopher’s Original
Formulas
435
Chrysantis, Inc.
104
Clayton College of
Natural Health
1323
CMP Japan Co., Ltd.
128
Cogitative Services
358
Collective Wellbeing
1044
Complete Spectrum
1249
Consultants Association
for the Natural Products
Industry (CANI)
548
Coral Inc.
1319
Cortislim
614
Country Life Vitamins
600
Crania Co.
1258
Crystal Star Herbal
Nutrition
1146
Daiwa Health
Development, Inc.
359
Davos Life Science Pte Ltd 111
Dead Sea Warehouse
1049
Deerland Enzymes
621
Delicious Living Magazine 444
Desert Essence
745
Designing Health, Inc.
442
Doctor Hoy’s Pain
Relief Gel
746
Dr. Bonner &
Sun Dog’s Magic
1349
Dr. Smoothie
1133
EARTH
410
Earthrise Nutritionals
528
ECR Software Corporation1111
Egg Whites International 756
Emerald Balance Nutritional
Support
328
Ener-G Foods Inc.
1233
Energit Vitamins
1056
Energy Times Magazine 322
Essential Formulas
631
Essiac from
Rene M. Caisse RN
1025
essn Sparkling Juice ™
830
Esteem Products Ltd.
730
Everaccent Health
357
Exal Inc.
458
Extreme Health
1525
F.G.H. Consulting U.S.A. 1155
FarWest Manufacturing 1130
FedEx
816
Fenchem Enterprises Ltd. 433
Fibromyalgia Aware
Magazine
754
First Organics, Inc.
1451
Fit Fruit & Vegetable Wash1227
FLORA INC.
314
Food For Life Baking
Co., Inc.
1141
French Meadow Bakery 1449
Fresh Wave
1047
FTH Nutraceuticals
1616
Fullife Natural Options, Inc.652
Future Horizons
446
Garden of Life
1011
GCI Nutrients
311
Geldynamics, Inc.
429
Gematria Products, Inc. 1040
Gencor Pacific Inc.
108
Genesis Today
933
GFR Pharma Ltd.
550
GLC Direct
431
Glisodin
1617
Glutino/The Gluten-Free
Pantry
1239
GMP Laboratories of
America, Inc.
428
GoForLife Labs
639
Good L Corp/
Big Basket Co.
952
Grandma’s Herbs
434
Great Earth Companies, Inc.545
Greenbison, Inc.
1416
Grupo Nutramex,
S.A. de C.V.
450
Hair No More
1519
Harmonic Innerprizes
1016
Harmony Cone
Ear Candles
950
Harmony Health Products1334
Hawaiian Health
Ohana LLC
1347
Health King Enterprise &
Balanceuticals Group 1053
Health Plus Inc.
1419
Healthy Living Solutions1422
Healthy Planet Products 1156
Heaven Sent Naturals
640
Hero Nutritional Products 728
Highland Laboratories
1027
Himalaya Herbal
Healthcare
1041
Hobe Laboratories, Inc.
853
Hodgson Mill, Inc.
1139
Hollywood Diet
344
Holopack International
204
Hsu’s Ginseng/
Root to Health
854
Humphreys Pharmacal, Inc.748
HVL, Inc./Health Yourself 742
Hyalogic LLC
1618
Ikove by Florestas
354
Independence Distributors1036
Innovative Health
Products Inc.
535
Intensive Nutrition, Inc. 1021
Inverness Medical
556
Iovate Health Sciences
330
Iron-Tek
600
Irwin Naturals/
Nature’s Secret
611
Japan Pharmaceutical
Development
937
1003
Jarrow Formulas®, Inc.
Javalution Coffee Company 525
Jennies Macaroons
360
Joan Cris Aloe Vera
Products
1340
Kashi Company
1331
Kava King™ Products, Inc. 552
KGK Synergize Inc.
113
KL Distributing
758
Korean Red Pine Needle Oil437
Kristal Metabolic Formulas 355
Lakewood Juice Company 1129
Larenim Mineral Makeup 844
Leland Cherry Company 955
Lewey’s Eco-Blends, Inc. 1450
Life Line Foods
115
Life Solutions
635
Lifeline Marketing
546
Lifesource Water Systems 1356
LifeTime®/Nutritional
Specialties, Inc.
808
Lily of the Desert
1220
LithoFlex, Inc. dba
The Box Co-Op
205
Living Flower Essences
457
Living Harvest
1453
Living Naturally
1229
Long Life Teas
600
Longjiang River Health
Products
533
Lonza Inc.
540
Lotus S.W. Inc.
319
LowCarb Success
1429
MACA USA, Inc.
413
MacNut Oil, LP
1128
Macromark, Inc.
648
Maitake Products, Inc.
216
Martha’s All Natural
1230
Matrix Health/
Earth’s Bounty
544
Maximum Healthcare
Solutions, LLC
231
Maypro Industries, Inc.
203
Medi-Plex
1421
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
TRADE SHOW NEWS
MERC/Laid in Montana
Emu Products
752
Michael’s Naturopathic
Programs
1107
MidWest Pure Water
753
Mill Creek Botanicals
1050
Miracle Greens
1149
Modern Products/
Fearn Natural Foods 1125
Morningstar Minerals
722
Mother’s Intuition - Tummy
Honey & Stretch Out
Stretch Mark Solutions 1046
Mychelle Dermaceuticals
LLC
947
Nasaline
737
Nasutra LLC
1055
National Association of
Nutrition Professionals 125
National Enzyme Company 641
National Nutritional Foods
Association
816
Native American Botanics 721
Natren
531
Natrol
303
Natural Factors Nutritional
Products Inc.
1000
Natural Food Network 1337
Natural Path/Silver Wings 630
NaturalCare Products
930
Naturalmmunity
755
Natures Benefit
530
Nature’s Best
1136
Nature’s Energy Inc.
650
Nature’s Health
558
Nature’s Hollow
1225
Nature’s Secret/
Irwin Naturals
611
Nature’s Way
407
Neuro Help
1054
New Chapter
739
Newton Laboratories, Inc. 1028
NHK Laboratories, Inc. 1200
No-Miss Limited, Inc.
1020
Nordic Naturals
841
NOW Foods
307
NOW Foods Private Label 310
NPICenter
438
NSD Herbal Inc.
647
NSF International
1203
Nuliv Lifestyle
1147
Nutramed, Inc.
541
Nutri-Books Corp.
422
Nutrica, Inc.
1010
Nutricology
1219
Nutrilicious Natural Bakery 352
Nutrition 21, Inc.
1018
Nutrition Now
542
Nuvite Labs
1029
O’Donnell Formulas, Inc. 131
Omega Products
1119
Once Again Nut Butter 1138
One World Distribution 1121
OptiPure
106
OraMedix, Inc.
750
Orcas Japan/Sea-FT
456
OrderDog, Inc.
118
Organic Consumers
Association
1452
Organic Fiji
345
Organix South, Inc.
1057
P.C. Teas Co., Inc.
1448
Pacific Natural Products 114
Palko Distributing Co Inc. 607
Para Laboratories/
Queen Helene
949
Paragon Laboratories
318
PayChex
816
Paymentech
816
Peaceful Mountain
849
Penta Water
837
Perfect Empowered
Drinking Water
825
PetGuard, Inc.
928
Pharma-Natural, Inc.
353
Phytoceutical
Formulations LLC
523
Planetary Formulas
1222
Premier Labs, Inc.
1333
PROBAR, LLC
1228
Productos Armonia
449
Prosperity Organic
Foods, Inc.
1445
Protec Laboratory Inc.
214
PurBalance Botanicals
1625
Pure & Basic Products
847
Pure Essence Labs
1016
Pure Solutions, Inc.
628
Quality Chemical Labs
209
Quality of Life Labs
942
Queen Bee Gardens
1615
R. Donnelly & Associates,
Inc.
103
Rainforest Preserve
1152
Real Wasabi, LLC
1342
RealSalt
1423
Reliance Private Label
Supplements
633
Renew Life
939
Retail Insights
122
RidgeCrest Herbals
1201
Ruth’s Hemp FoodsMaca Power
1038
RZN Nutraceuticals
1026
Saiveda
656
Sambazon
1444
Sanjiu-Vitahut Int’l
Products, LLC
617
Seelect Tea Inc.
811
Select Nutrition Distributors440
Siempre Positivo,
S.A. de C.V.
350
Sierrasil
124
Simply Coconut
1442
Simply Divine Botanicals 1520
Simply H
1122
Skinutrients, LLC
1256
Soft Gel Technologies Inc. 106
Solgar Vitamin & Herb
320
Solo GI Nutrition
725
Source Naturals
1222
Sovereign Silver by NaturalImmunogenics Corp. 1250
Spectroscopic Solutions 554
Spectrum Organic
Products, Inc.
1330
Static Eliminator
747
Stenocall Inbound Services 455
Stoneridge Orchards™
830
Sun Chlorella USA
1623
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
Creating
Health
Together
Conference July 15–17, 2005
Trade Show July 16–17, 2005
Sands Expo and Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
SunGold Foods
1242
Super Natural Distributors 1109
Superior Trading Company 839
Tahiti Trader
1117
Tai-Beauty Biotech Corp. 1205
Taste for Life
1628
Tea Tree Therapy, Inc.
948
The BioPro Advantage/
BioPro Technology
1153
The Campaign
1441
The Deborah Ray Show 120
The Mind Body Store
454
The Organic Bath Co.
1048
The Organic Planet
1455
The Rockland Corporation 316
The Source
1216
Thomas A. Delaney,
Legal Counsel
356
Threshold Enterprises
1222
Thunder Ridge Emu
Products
645
Tishcon Corp.
522
Trace Minerals Research1007
Traditional Medicinals
537
TRC Nutritional
Laboratories (Rockland) 316
Tree of Life, Inc.
820
Triax Consumer Health LLC 738
Tribest Corp/Greenpower
International
1325
TrimSpa/Winfuel
1033
Trinity College of
Natural Health
1521
Tropical Oasis
940
TruWell Health &
Wellness Products
430
Twinlab Corporation
741
U.S. Quality Life, L.L.C.
549
UAS Labs/
Probiotic Company
814
Ultimate Creations
1158
United Natural Foods
1131
UPC Medical
453
UV Natural
1045
Valerie Saxion’s
Silver Creek Labs
800
VÄXA International
1039
Vesta
110
Virgo Publishing
217
Vita Plus/Life Line USA
555
Vital Age Intl. Inc.
351
Vitamer Labs
312
Vitamin Retailer
Magazine, Inc.
1619
Vitanica
1218
VIVO Water
225
Wakunaga of America
416
Warren Laboratories, Inc.George’s Aloe Vera
723
Water Oz
629
Wee Bee Honey Inc.
1329
Weil Nutritional
Supplements
603
Wellements
325
Whole Foods Magazine
208
Wilke Resources
420
William Gallagher
Associates
816
Winfuel™/Trimspa®
1033
Wobenzym USA
622
World Nutrition Inc.
1621
World Organic/
Licata Enterprises
1014
Xlear Inc.
1244
Yoanna Skin Care
1247
Zand/Botanical
Laboratories, Inc.
536
Zaqua! The Wetter Water 1320
www.nnfa.org
11
IN THE NEWS
Legal Q & A—Product Recalls
(Continued from page 3)
for consumers to review if the recall needs to go down to the consumer level. If that is the case, the retailer must make that recall
notice available so that it can speak for itself. A retailer should feel
free to call the manufacturer if there are questions about the recall.
Q
A
form it on their own, and do not provide any notice or publication
of the recall to FDA or the trade. They attempt to bring back the
product from their own warehouses or distributors but may not go
to the level of reaching out to third party distributors or retailers.
Q
A
How are recalls publicized?
Is there a difference between a recall and a
market withdrawal?
Yes. A market withdrawal typically occurs where there is a
minor violation that would not be subject to FDA legal action.
Manufacturers who undertake a market withdrawal typically per-
FDA now lists recalls not only in its Enforcement Report,
which is published many months after the recall is complete,
but also on its website at www.fda.gov/opacom. There is also a website, www.recalls.gov, that lists FDA and CPSC recalls. ❦
NNFA would like to thank
this year’s participating show sponsors!
12
www.nnfa.org
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
Attending NNFA’s Annual Convention
and Trade Shows proves you’re
interested, involved and informed.
·
We want you to stay that way.
It’s not too late to attend…
Join us next year for…
Conference July 15–17, 2005
Trade Show July 16–17, 2005
Conference July 14–16, 2006
Trade Show July 15–16, 2005
Sands Expo and Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Sands Expo and Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
TRADE SHOW NEWS
NNFA 2005 Closing Keynote Announced
(Continued from page 1)
demic intelligence service officer and medical epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease
Control and senior advisor on children’s health for the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), where he helped establish the Office of Children’s Health Protection. He was
author of a pivotal report on pesticides and children’s health, which was instrumental in
securing passage of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996, the major federal pesticide law
in the United States.
The Closing Keynote will take place Sunday, July 17, immediately following the Annual
Awards Ceremony, where NNFA will be honoring the 2005 award winners, including Dr.
Landrigan, who will receive the Rachel Carson Environmental Award, which recognizes
individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the protection of the environment.
NNFA Board of Directors
Executive Committee:
Paul Bennett, President
Harvest Moon Natural Foods, Olathe, KS
David Taylor, President-Elect
Nature’s Harvest Market & Deli, Tampa, FL
Gary Hume, Treasurer
Nutraceutical Corp., Park City, UT
Debra Short, Chair, Retail Council
Debra’s…Naturally, Shawnee, OK
Board of Directors:
What? Not Registered to Attend NNFA 2005 Yet?
No problem. Natural product retailers can register onsite for a nominal fee. You don’t want
to miss the once-a-year opportunity to attend the oldest and longest running convention and
trade show in the industry, NNFA 2005. Attendees enjoy valuable educational seminars presented by cutting edge industry experts, stimulating special events, and indispensable face
time on the show floor with some of the most pioneering exhibitors in the industry. Every
year, thousands of retailers turn to NNFA’s show for the knowledge and support they need to
build their business and offer the best products and services available to their customers. Join
them this year and see why! NNFA 2005 will take place July 15–17 at the Sands Expo and
Convention Center and The Venetian Resort Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. For more details, visit
www.nnfa.org/tradeshow ❦
Gary Barrows
Bluebonnet Nutrition Corp., Sugar Land, TX
Randy Dennin
Capsugel, Greenwood, SC
Ryan Drexler
Country Life/Desert Essence, Hauppauge, NY
Mark A. Fox
Ideasphere, Inc., Grand Rapids, MI
Soodi Kick
Nuts ’N Berries, Atlanta, GA
Richard League
Mothers Cupboard Natural Foods, Spokane, WA
Greg Leonard
Tree of Life, St. Augustine, FL
Jim Lewis
Sunseed Natural Foods, Inc., Juneau, WI
Adrienne Mastrobattista
The Organic Warehouse, Stroudsburg, PA
Mission Statement
NNFA Today is the official publication of the
National Nutritional Foods Association (NNFA). It serves as a
comprehensive, authoritative source for practical information that
natural food retailers and suppliers need to succeed in the marketplace.
It provides thought-provoking, timely information on all aspects of
the natural products industry and NNFA encourages dialogue among
members on professional concerns and views.
The views and opinions presented by contributors to NNFA Today
are their own and not necessarily those of NNFA. Further, NNFA 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.
Editorial Director: Tracy Taylor
Executive Editor: George Sun
Editor: Amanda Thomason
Contributing Editor: Craig Saperstein
Graphic Designer: Kimberly Harrigan
Printing: Network Printing, San Dimas, CA
14
www.nnfa.org
Send inquiries to NNFA at:
2112 E. Fourth Street, Suite 200
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(800) 966-6632 Fax: (714) 460-7444
e-mail: [email protected]
Richard Merriam
GCI Nutrients, Burlingame, GA
Marianne Morgan
Health Habit, San Andreas, CA
Matt Murray
Green Acres Natural Foods Market, Wichita, KS
Scott Presnall
Advantage Sales & Marketing, Irvine, CA
Pat Sardell
Country Vitamins, Corvallis, OR
Jim Smith
Apple-A-Day Health World, Gadsden, AL
Carrol Wells
Honey Bee Natural Foods, Brownwood, TX
John Venardos
Herbalife International, Century City, CA
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
NNFA Today, Volume 19, No. 7 / July 2005
www.nnfa.org
15
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