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Volume
/ July 2006
INSIDE
TODAY
Timely Communications
from the National Nutritional Foods Association
NNFA Today coming in
September!
Regulatory & Legislative News:
Legal Q&A—AERs
Science News: Glucosamine & Bone Health
Page 4
Food & Nutrition News: Oolong: The Other Tea Page 9
NNFA Opens
New D.C.
Headquarters
N
Natural
Products
Professionals
Prepare for Industry’s Premier
National Show, NNFA 2006
N
NFA will return to Las Vegas this summer to host the most comprehensive show
experience for the natural products industry, NNFA 2006. This year marks the association’s 70th anniversary and preliminary attendance numbers suggest a highly successful show to accompany this milestone.
The oldest and longest running show in the industry, NNFA 2006 offers essential face
time on the show floor for retail buyers and exhibitors, insightful educational seminars presented by prestigious industry experts, and stimulating, fun special events. NNFA 2006 will
take place the Sands Expo Convention Center and The Venetian Resort Hotel located in
the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
Learn from the Experts
NNFA 2006’s educational program is a convergence of expert minds and constructive
insight. The program developers strive to bring attendees a prestigious faculty of industry
experts whose knowledge of innovative business strategies and the latest scientific
advances is especially relevant for attendees. The schedule for Friday, July 14, will include
more than 30 NNFA seminars and exhibitor-hosted InfoSessions addressing key issues
(Continued on page 12)
Page 2
NFA is pleased to announce the opening of its new Washington, D.C. headquarters. Located in the Dupont Circle
neighborhood of Washington, NNFA’s new
locale will allow for continued growth of the
association, advocacy efforts, and ardent representation for the natural products industry.
“Purchase of this new space is certainly a
milestone in our 70-year history, and one of
which we are extremely proud,” said David
Taylor, president of NNFA. “We see this
move as a tremendous investment for our
membership and a symbol of our ongoing
commitment to effective Washington representation for the natural products industry.”
NNFA first opened an office in Washington, D.C. three years ago in order to
expand advocacy efforts with federal legislators and regulators on behalf of its members
and the natural products industry. Since
then, the office has grown and houses several
senior staff members, including CEO and
Executive Director David Seckman.
The new address is 1773 T St., NW,
Washington, D.C. 20009. The telephone
number for the Washington, D.C. office
remains (202) 223-0101.
NNFA will still operate an office in
Santa Ana, Calif. Member inquiries regarding the annual trade show and convention
and membership services should still be
directed to the California location at (800)
966-6632. ❦
NNFA’s new
locale will
allow for
continued
growth of the
association…
and ardent
representation
for the natural
products
industry
REGULATORY & LEGISLATIVE NEWS
By Sidley Austin, NNFA General Counsel
The New AER Bill
Q
A
What is the purpose of this new bill?
If the bill
becomes law, it
will not require
reporting of all
complaints; but
instead will
be limited
to serious
adverse events
If this bill becomes law, it will amend the federal Food,
Drug and Cosmetic Act to require the reporting of “serious” adverse events for both over the counter (OTC) drugs
and dietary supplements. As currently proposed, it will require
“responsible persons” to submit any serious adverse event to
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within 15
business days of learning of it. The responsible persons must
submit any additional information concerning the adverse
event of which it becomes aware within one year of its initial
AER (within 15 days of receiving the additional information).
While the industry has maintained that dietary supplements are generally safe, the withholding and subsequent
release under subpoena of several thousands of AERs relating
to ephedra has led some in Congress to question whether there
are thousands more adverse experiences that are going unreported because the current system is voluntary.
Q
A
How does this new AER bill differ from the
current reporting system?
FDA’s current system—the CFSAN Adverse Event
Reporting System (CAERS)— is voluntary. The proposed AER bill would make reporting serious adverse events a
legal requirement for “responsible persons,” as discussed above.
Q
A
Does the bill cover any reaction or complaint
to any product I carry or manufacture—no
matter how minor?
No. If the bill becomes law, it will not require reporting of
all complaints; but instead will be limited to serious
adverse events. “Serious” adverse events as defined in the bill
are: (1) death; (2) a life-threatening experience; (3) inpatient
hospitalization; (4) a persistent or significant disability or incapacity; (5) a congenital anomaly or birth defect; or, (6) require
medical or surgical intervention to prevent the above outcomes. Although the AER bill only requires that reports of
2
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“serious” adverse events be submitted to FDA, records of other
types of product complaints or adverse events must be maintained for a period of six years by the responsible person.
Q
A
As a retailer, am I required to do anything?
If a complaint is received on a branded product, retailers
will not have any obligation to report such adverse
events to FDA. The manufacturer of the product—in
this case the “responsible person”—will have the legal responsibility of reporting serious adverse events in connection with
these products.
If a complaint is received on a private label product sold
by the retailer, defined as “distributors whose name…appears
on the label,” the retailer will have to make a decision about
who will be the “responsible person” for the purposes of the
AER bill. Such retailers will have to make a choice to either:
(1) assign the reporting responsibility to the manufacturer of
their private label products; or (2) to report serious adverse
events themselves.
Q
I’m a retailer. If this bill passes, what would I
be required to do in the following situation:
a customer comes into the store and says
they had to go to the hospital because of
supplement they bought from me?
A
What you describe would fall under the definition of
“serious” according to the draft legislation. If the product
is not marketed under your name, you are not required to do
anything. If it was your private label product and you and the
manufacturer have agreed that such complaints would be handled by them, it could be as simple as providing the phone number of the manufacturer to the customer. In this situation, there
also would be no recordkeeping requirements for the retailer.
If as a retailer you have elected to handle adverse event
reports yourself, you would then be required to follow the
reporting and recordkeeping steps as outlined in the bill.
(Continued on page 14)
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
IN THE NEWS
A Look at Our History
Michael
Schwartz
Michael’s
Naturopathic Programs
San Antonio, Texas
NNFA Member for 22 years
Why did you join NNFA?
I believe that there is strength in numbers. When we all work
together for the common good much can be accomplished. This is
especially true when we share the same vision and work on the
same projects.
How does NNFA help you succeed in your job or business?
Through the monthly newsletters I gain insights and understandings of some of the things that are going on that affect our industry.
It also provides guidance for my employees.
How do you think NNFA has changed the industry—
and the health of America for the better?
In regard to the industry, it has participated over the years in combating attempts to curtail the public’s access to supplements. I think
that there are many battles that still lay ahead of us in the freedom
to choose health care modalities.
Do you have any special stories or memories of an NNFA moment?
There are more memories than I can recall in my 30 years of
trade shows. The ones that jump out are the times that we have
won awards for our booth presentations as well as our educational materials.
What’s one thing would you tell a non-member about NNFA?
Join! When we pool our thoughts, desires, energy and resources and
work in a unified effort we can “move mountains” and become the
beacon for health in the United States that we truly are. Plus
NNFA provides help to all of its members through the availability
of different programs. ❦
…In the Last Decade…
1997
2002
In passing the Food and Drug Administration Modernization
Act, Congress allows a provision authorizing health claims for
certain dietary supplements.
The Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and
Response Act of 2002 (the Bioterrorism Act) becomes law.
1998
NNFA Japan is founded.
NNFA opens an office in Washington, D.C. in order to have a
greater presence on Capitol Hill.
1999
2004
NNFA launches its Good Manufacturing
Practices (GMP) certification program for
dietary supplements.
NNFA joins with other industry
organizations to form the Coalition
to Preserve DSHEA, created to
enhance the industry’s presence and influence in achieving
favorable public policies on Capitol Hill.
2000
The final rule for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National
Organic Program is published with dramatic changes from the
proposed rule due to grassroots efforts from NNFA, its members
and other industry stakeholders to keep standards high.
2001
2003
FDA publishes its proposed regulation for Good Manufacturing
Practices for dietary supplements.
2006
NNFA celebrates its 70th anniversary.
NNFA establishes NNFA China.
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
www.nnfa.org
3
SCIENCE NEWS
Glucosamine
and the
Battle for
Bone Health
by Daniel Fabricant, Ph.D.
Daniel Fabricant
4
A
s Americans become more educated about the dangers of
osteoarthritis (OA) and the cost of treating this and other
conditions, there is an increasing need to understand alternative therapies that may help halt the advancement of OA and
curtail health care costs. One such alternative is to supplement with
glucosamine. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at this
highly beneficial compound.
Glucosamine has some extremely beneficial uses, especially for
connective tissue. Glucosamine supplements are widely used by
those with OA. The role that dietary glucosamine may play in the
treatment of osteoarthritis is to delay, halt, or even reverse the
degenerative process. Under normal physiological conditions, glucosamine levels in the extracellular fluids are so low they cannot be
detected, but if provided in the diet, glucosamine is rapidly taken up
into cells by glucose transporters, and is phosphorylated to produce
glucosamine-6-phosphate. Glucosamine-6-phosphate is a precursor
in the biosynthesis of the glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) found in cartilage. Premature loss of cartilage is part of the clinical syndrome recognized as OA.
The Arthritis Foundation estimates that there are over seven
million physician visits annually for osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is
commonly taken in combination with chondroitin, a glycosaminoglycan derived from articular cartilage. Use of complementary and
alternative therapies, including glucosamine, is common in patients
with osteoarthritis, and may allow for reduced doses of non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). Not only can those who suffer
from osteoarthritis benefit from glucosamine intake, but active indi-
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viduals may greatly benefit as well. In fact, all active individuals,
especially you weekend warriors, may have a tendency to overuse
certain joints, and consequently, glucosamine can help to regain
cushioning, protecting cartilage around joints and potentially
relieve pain.
Glucosamine (2-amino-2-deoxy-D-glucose), an amino-monosaccharide, is a natural component found in connective tissues and
gastrointestinal mucosal membranes. Glucosamine is formed when
glucose combines with an amino acid. It is a building block for cartilage. As a weak organic base, glucosamine can be transformed into
either a hydrochloride or a sulfate salt form. Commercially available
forms of glucosamine include: 1) glucosamine sulfate; 2) crystals and
precipitates of glucosamine sulfate with potassium or sodium chloride;
3) glucosamine hydrochloride; and 4) physical mixtures of glucosamine hydrochloride and potassium or sodium sulfate. Glucosamine
is available in highly purified final forms. The actual quantity of glucosamine found in the preparations varies due to the size of the associated salt form. As a result, in the usual daily dose of 1,500
milligrams per day, the actual level of glucosamine can range from
895 (sulfate-potassium chloride) to 1,245 (HCl) milligrams per day.
Glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate, and any of its
stabilized forms, the dissolution of these molecules will also involve
dissociation of the salt. There has been no published evidence, nor
has any difference been observed in the rate of dissolution of any of
the glucosamine containing preparations. Thus, in theory both the
hydrochloride and sulfate will dissolve (ionize) completely in stomach acid (HCl), which would make all of the glucosamine present,
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
SCIENCE NEWS
The chemical structure of glucosamine.
regardless of the
source, available for
absorption in the
small intestine. Once
absorbed into the
blood stream, the glucosamine, independent of the original
salt, in theory, is
available to the body as glucosamine.
Available evidence from randomized controlled trials supports
the use of glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee. A 2005 review of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness and toxicity of glucosamine
sulfate in osteoarthritis, covering 20 studies with 2,570 patients,
found that it was superior to placebo in the treatment of pain and
functional impairment resulting from symptomatic OA. A study of
postmenopausal women found that glucosamine sulfate reduced
joint space narrowing compared to placebo. Several human studies
and animal experiments report benefits of glucosamine sulfate in
treating osteoarthritis of various joints of the body, although the
evidence is less plentiful than that for knee osteoarthritis. Some
of these reported benefits include pain relief, possibly due to an
anti-inflammatory effect of glucosamine sulfate, and improved
joint function.
At present, it is unclear whether glucosamine hydrochloride has
the same potential clinical benefits as glucosamine sulfate, because
most studies showing efficacy for glucosamine in osteoarthritis have
used the sulfate form. The Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis
Intervention Trial (GAIT), a U.S. National Institutes of Health
(NIH) sponsored study randomly assigned over 1,500 patients to
placebo, celecoxib™, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, or glucosamine hydrochloride/chondroitin sulfate therapy for
osteoarthritis of the knee. In a subgroup analysis of patients with
moderate to severe osteoarthritis, as judged using the WOMAC
Pain subscale, the combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and
chondroitin sulfate was more efficacious than placebo and celecoxib™. Glucosamine was nearly as effective as celecoxib™ in
terms of pain relief in the subgroup with moderate-to-severe pain,
suggesting the possibility of different biologic effects among the supplements. Chondroitin sulfate reduced joint swelling, but did not
appear to relieve pain.
While more clinical trials are needed to confirm effectiveness
and to test different formulations of glucosamine, the safety profile
of glucosamine is far superior to that of NSAIDs, especially with
regard to some of the more recent risks associated with the newer
generation of NSAIDs. That coupled with the significant body of
evidence supporting the use of glucosamine for symptoms associated
with osteoarthritis makes it an excellent alternative and complement to traditional pharmaceutical intervention. ❦
Available
evidence from
randomized
controlled trials
supports the
use of
glucosamine
sulfate in the
treatment of
osteoarthritis
ATTENTION NNFA SUPPLIER MEMBERS
Good Manufacturing Practices:
Preparing for Certification
NNFA has established a third party Good Manufacturing Practices
(GMP) Certification Program to ensure the integrity, quality and
reliability of the systems, processes and procedures used to
manufacture, package, label and distribute products. To assist
NNFA members in implementing GMPs and determining their
readiness for an audit, NNFA offers training seminars throughout
the year. This seminar will include an in-depth analysis by NNFA
general counsel of the FDA’s recently proposed rule on GMPs for
dietary supplements. The next seminar takes place at...
NNFA 2006
Las Vegas, Nev., Friday, July 14, 2006
To register,
call Vicki Whitsitt at
(800) 966-6632, ext. 243.
The full day registration fee for NNFA members is $395 per person. The non-member fee is $550. There is an additional $25 fee per attendee
for those who register on site. Session 1 is a prerequisite for session 2. Special pricing available for those attending one session only. NNFA
reserves the right to cancel the seminar based on attendance of fewer than ten individuals.
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
www.nnfa.org
5
SCIENCE NEWS
Red Grapefruit Joins the
Fight against Heart Disease
From Healthnotes Newswire, a news service of Healthnotes, Inc.
R
Grapefruit
is a good
source of
vitamin C,
and also
contains
pigments
that are
powerful
antioxidants
6
ecent research has discovered a good
reason for people fighting coronary
artery disease to head to their grocery produce section: Eating red grapefruit
(Citrus paradisi M.) helps reduce cholesterol
and triglycerides in people who already have
heart disease.
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death
in the United States and an epidemic in other Western countries. CAD is a condition in which the vessels that supply blood
to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed with
plaques, greatly increasing heart attack risk.
A family of drugs known as statins is commonly used to
combat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as these substances play an important role in arterial plaque formation. If
the arteries become too blocked, advancing the disease, coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary to allow blood to
flow around one or more blocked coronary arteries.
The best way to prevent coronary artery disease is to exercise regularly and eat a diet low in saturated fats and high in
fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, fiber, and good fats (i.e
omega-3s found in fish fat). The benefits of eating fruits and vegetables are believed to be largely due to their high content of
vitamin C and other antioxidants. Grapefruit is a good source of
vitamin C, and the colorful red grapefruit also contains pigments that are powerful antioxidants.
The current study, published in the Journal of Agricultural
and Food Chemistry (2006, vol.54: 1887-1892), looked at the
effect of eating grapefruit on cholesterol and triglyceride levels
in people with coronary artery disease. In addition to eating a
low-fat, high-fruit-and-vegetable diet for the 30 days, the 57 participants were randomly assigned to eat one red grapefruit per
day, one yellow or “blond” grapefruit per day, or no grapefruit.
People in both of the grapefruit-eating groups experienced significant drops in both total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Triglyceride levels only declined in the group that
ate red grapefruits.
“Addition of fresh red grapefruit to generally accepted diets
may be beneficial for [people with high cholesterol levels, and]
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especially those with high levels of triglycerides,” the
researchers said in their conclusion.
The researchers performed other tests to
compare red and blond grapefruits and
found that the red grapefruit had higher
levels of antioxidants and that people
who ate them had higher antioxidant
levels in their blood than the people who
ate blond grapefruit.
“The beneficial effects of eating grapefruit seem to be due in
part to pectin, a type of fiber that is found in grapefruits,” said
Alan R. Gaby, MD, chief science editor at Healthnotes.
These findings are particularly interesting because the study
participants already had advanced coronary artery disease. They
had all undergone bypass surgery a year or more before enrolling
and had high triglyceride levels that were not responding to
statin medications. These medications were not used during the
30-day grapefruit trial. The study results do not tell us whether
red grapefruit, through its effect on cholesterol and triglycerides,
reduces the recurrence of heart attacks in people with coronary
artery disease, or whether red grapefruit can protect people who
do not already have the disease.
People who want to take grapefruit to prevent coronary
artery disease should keep in mind that grapefruit is known to
interfere with metabolism of a number of prescription medications. People taking prescription medications should always
consult their health care practitioner before drinking grapefruit
juice or eating large amounts of fresh grapefruit. ❦
—Maureen Williams, ND
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.
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
SCIENCE NEWS
Science Briefs
Carotenoids Battle Lymphoma
People with high intakes of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin,
and vegetables in general, could significantly reduce the risk of nonHodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), according to research published in
the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2006, vol.83: 1401-1410).
The diet of 466 people with NHL was compared with that of 391
matched controls. People with the highest intake of lutein and zeaxanthin had a 46 percent decreased risk compared to those with the
lowest intake of the carotenoids. The researchers also found that a
higher number of weekly servings of all vegetables was linked to a
42 percent lower risk of NHL than the lowest intake, while high
intakes of green leafy vegetables and cruciferous vegetables were
specifically associated with a 40 percent decreased risk of developing the disease.
Nutrient Combo Helps Inflamed Intestine
Omega-3 fatty acids and the flavonoid quercetin may work together
to help alleviate inflammation of the large intestine associated
with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, claims
a new study. Published in the online version of Clinical Nutrition (doi:
10.1016/j.clnu.2005.
12.009), the study
examined the effect
of fatty acid supplementation with or
without quercetin on
female rats with inflamed bowels. Five groups were formed: diets of
four groups were supplemented with fish oil, soybean oil, fish oil plus
quercetin, or soybean oil plus quercetin. The fifth group maintained
a normal diet. After two weeks on these diets, colitis was induced in
the rats and 10 days later, the researchers measured inflammatory
responses. The fish oil group showed a reduction in response levels
of up to 49 percent compared to the soybean oil group. When the
fish oil group’s diet was also supplemented with quercetin, the levels were reduced even more, by up to 62 percent.
High intakes
Zinc Protects the Heart
of green leafy
An animal study published online in Free Radical Biology and Medicine (doi: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2006.03.017) showed that zinc
supplements may protect against cardiovascular disease (CVD). For
the study, researchers divided 18 white rabbits into three groups: the
first ate a normal diet, the second, a high cholesterol diet, and the
third, a high cholesterol diet plus zinc supplementation. After eight
weeks, blood levels from the groups indicated that the zinc group
experienced a significant reduction in
HDL (“good”) cholesterol,
leading the researchers
to conclude that the
mineral helped protect the heart by
inhibiting lesion
formations in the
rabbits’ aorta. ❦
vegetables and
cruciferous vegetables were
associated with
a 40 percent
decreased risk
of developing
non-Hodgkin’s
lymphoma
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
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
www.nnfa.org
7
SCIENCE NEWS
Oregon Grape Helps Combat Psoriasis
T
Today Oregon
grape tincture
is taken orally
help ease
symptoms of
psoriasis,
eczema, acne,
and herpes
8
he state flower of Oregon is the Oregon grape (Mahonia
aquifolium). It is also known as the holly grape because the
leaves look like holly leaves. The shrub has waxy blue
berries. Oregon grape plants can also be found in Washington
and California and are widely cultivated as an ornamental.
Oregon grape was initially supplied to the medical profession in 1877 as a treatment for syphilis. In 1900 it was first
reported to cure an extreme case of psoriasis. Several case
reports published in the early 1900s describe patients with
severe chronic psoriasis taking Oregon grape root extract orally.
The patients had almost 100 percent improvement in external
signs of psoriasis (patches of dry, scaling, red skin). In addition,
other treatments were
more effective when
taken with Oregon
grape. Today Oregon
grape tincture is taken
orally help ease symptoms of psoriasis,
eczema, acne, and herpes. Persistent use is
necessary to alleviate
these dermatological
conditions. It is sometimes
Mahonia aquifolium
combined with yellow dock
(Rumex crispus) or burdock (Arctium lappa) tinctures to be used
topically and internally.
Psoriasis is caused by chronic hyperproliferation (abnormally high rate of cell division) of the epidermis (outer layer of
skin) with inflammation mediated by lipoxygenase-derived
products of arachidonic acid. In vitro, Oregon grape extract
inhibited growth of keratinocytes (a type of epidermal cell) by
50 percent. It also inhibited 5-lipoxygenase, an important
enzyme in the inflammation process, by 50 percent. It is not
conclusively known which compounds in Oregon grape are
responsible for these actions, though the alkaloids oxyacanthine
and berbamine appear to be more responsible for these activities
than berberine.
Recent clinical studies have tested the efficacy of Oregon
grape for psoriasis. In one randomized placebo-controlled study,
patients with bilaterally symmetrical lesions applied placebo to
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one side of the body and 10 percent Oregon grape ointment to
the other side. According to physician assessment, 36 percent of
the patients’ lesions improved or disappeared with Oregon grape
treatment, and 23 percent improved with placebo. Five percent
of the patients experienced local adverse events (allergic sensitivity, burning, itching). Another randomized study compared
Oregon grape ointment (three times daily) with the pharmaceutical anthralin (also known as dithranol). Anthralin is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for psoriasis.
Biopsies of the skin lesions were taken from 49 patients with
psoriasis before and after treatment. Both treatments effectively
reduced hyperproliferation and immune reactions. Anthralin
was more effective in reducing some antibody markers. Adverse
effects associated with the common pharmaceuticals used to
treat psoriasis range from three percent to 72 percent (72 percent was associated with anthralin use).
The two contemporary clinical studies evaluated topical
application, while the original case reports describe oral application. The alkaloids in Oregon grape extract are extremely bitter
tasting. There are no solid extract preparations currently available. Using oral and topical Oregon grape together is considered by
some to be the most effective combination because the scaling
thick psoriasis skin is difficult for topical treatments to penetrate
at adequate concentrations. The author recommends mixing
the Oregon grape tincture with equal parts tincture of yerba
santa leaves (Eriodictyon californicum). He states that this formerly
official pharmaceutical preparation is effective in neutralizing
the bitterness of alkaloidal compounds and can make the preparation more palatable for liquid oral administration. Based on
these preliminary safety and efficacy reports, Oregon grape appears
to be a viable option for people with this skin condition. ❦
—Heather S. Oliff, Ph.D.
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.
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913.
Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 2: 128.
This literature summary is part of the HerbClip, an educational mailing service of the American Botanical Council
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.
Oolong Tea
The Middle Child
of the Tea Family
A
ccording to a Chinese legend, an emperor called Chen-nung
invented tea in the year 2374 BC by accident. He stopped
under a tree one summer day to enjoy the shade and boiled
water to refresh himself. Several leaves, caught by a breeze, fell into
the boiling water. The emperor didn’t notice until he breathed in
the aroma—he then immediately raised the infused water to drink
it. And tea was born.
Legend aside, tea has been produced in China since ancient
times. There are several varieties of tea, all of which come from the
plant Camellia Sinensis, and are distinguished more or less by how
long they are fermented. “Fermentation” actually refers to how
much a tea is allowed to undergo enzymatic oxidation by allowing
the freshly picked tea leaves to dry. This enzymatic oxidation
process may be stopped by either pan frying or steaming the leaves
before they are completely dried out. Green tea is non- or very
mildly fermented, black tea is fully fermented, and oolong is semifermented. Herbal teas are actually not tea at all since they contain
no leaves from the tea plant. They should more properly be referred
to as herbal infusions.
While perhaps not as well known throughout the United States
as green and black varieties, oolong tea has a long history of use in
China. It is thought to have been initially produced in the Fujian
Province at the end of the Ming Dynasty about 400 years ago.
As far as taste goes, some prefer oolong to green tea because the
semi-fermentation eliminates the somewhat “grassy” taste of the latter. It also contains less caffeine than black tea, making it a better
choice for those trying to cut down on caffeine.
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
A classical Chinese pharmaceutical book called the Bencao
Shiyi (The Compendium of Materia Medica), describes many health
benefits of tea in general including soothing the mind, uplifting the
spirit, and preventing obesity and aging.
In today’s terms of nutrition science, teas are known to contain
antioxidants called polyphenols that appear to be the source of
many of the plant’s health benefits. There are several different types
of known polyphenols. Among them are thearubigins, theaflavins,
catechins, flavonols, hydroxycinnamates, and gallic acids. These
compounds act as antioxidants, protecting body tissue from the
effects of free radicals. Tea polyphenols, therefore, may play important roles against cancer, high cholesterol, heart disease and other
diseases that result from oxidative damage.
Catechins are the major components of green tea leaves. Due to
the fermentation process, other polyphenols are more prominent in
black teas, such as theaflavins and thearubigins. Oolong tea, being
only semi-fermented, contains a mixture of these compounds. Many
studies have demonstrated that all of these types of polyphenols
have strong free-radical scavenging activity. ❦
Sources: History of Food by Maguelonne Toussaint-Samat;
www.oolongtea.com
www.nnfa.org
9
TRADE SHOW NEWS
They’re all here just for you.
On the NNFA 2006 show floor, you will find more than 650 booths filled with products from leading manufacturers
and suppliers representing the best of the natural marketplace.
(Exhibiting companies and corresponding booth numbers as of June 16, 2006; show sponsors are indicated with boldface type)
AAC Consulting Group 1037
ACM-Texas, LLC
1331
Agave International, Inc. 1627
Aim 2 Health
457
Allen Datagraph
Systems, Inc.
652
Aloe Life International
722
Aloecorp
630
Alta Health Products, Inc. 620
Alternecare Health
Products
1423
Amano Enzyme USA
101
Amazing Grass
1436
Amazon Nutrition Flavors 357
American BioSciences
530
American Botanical
Council
1526
American Herbal
Products Association 1528
American Holistic
Health Association
649
Ancient Essence.com
352
Apollo Commerce
939
Arizona Nutritional
Sciences
404
Ark Naturals Products
for Pets
1444
Arkopharma
521
Armstrong Skin Aid, Inc. 452
ArtJen Complexus
1446
Asian Health Elements
354
Assured Organics
220
Aubrey Organics, Inc.
740
Aunt Gussie’s Cookies
& Crackers
1137
Avalon Natural Products 744
Ave Maria International 1036
AYURCEUTICS
1031
BAEBBE.COM
657
Barlean’s
828
Basic Media Group
316
Bass Brushes
1044
BestLife International, Inc.1225
Better Nutrition and
Vegetarian Times
1208
Bio Pro Advantage/
Bio Pro Technology
1220
BioCalth Int’l Corp.
1122
Biocell Technology, LLC 115
Biochem
600
Bioforce USA
200
Bioherb/Gene Health
435
Blue Lizard Australian Suncream-Chemical Free 849
Blue Ridge Gypsy Studio 550
Blue Spring International 1052
Bluebonnet
Nutrition Corp.
805
Body Ecology
935
Body Saver Nutritional
Supplements
117
BodyPure
1058
10
www.nnfa.org
Boiron
1319
Bonk Breaker, Inc.
355
Brevail
835
Brighter Life Products
1121
Buried Treasure
641
California Natural
225
Campaign, The
1441
Cancer Control Society
121
Capsugel
203
Capwork Nutrition Ltd.
207
Carlson Laboratories
400
Carmi Flavor &
Fragrance Co., Inc.
1342
CC Pollen Co
1035
Century Systems
720
Cherry Marketing Institute 126
Chrysantis, Inc.
205
Clayton College of
Natural Health
1323
CMP Japan Co. Ltd.
127
Cogitative Services
1451
Complete Nutrition
119
ConAgra Functional Foods 937
Consultants Association for the
Natural Products Industry
(CANI)
658
Continental Yogurt
1138
Core Naturals
447
Country Life Vitamins
600
Craniyums
1621
Crystal Star Herbs
320
Deerland Enzymes
305
Delicious Living Magazine 653
Desert Essence
600
Designing Health, Inc.
942
Devita Natural Skin Care 955
Dogswell, LLC
1453
Dr. Bronner’s
Magic Soaps
1144
Dr. Smoothie
231
Dr. Susan’s All
Natural Soap
1049
Earth Footwear
857
Earthrise Nutritionals
723
Earth’s Bounty
1016
East Park Research
344
ECR Software
Corporation
1022
Egg Whites International 531
EM5 Nutraceutical
1150
Emani Mineral Makeup
752
Encore Tabs
621
Ener-G Foods, Inc.
1233
Energit Vitamins
656
Enfusia & Cocoon
1047
Enzymatic Therapy
614
Enzymedica
533
Epulse Global, Inc.
758
Erom Co., Ltd.
430
Essential Formulas
Incorporated
1011
Essiac from
Rene M. Caisse, RN
1025
Ethical Nutrients
325
Extreme Health
528
Fairy Line, The
358
FedEx
816
Fernqvist Labeling
Solutions
1039
Fiber Tea, Inc.
1152
Fibromyalgia Aware
Magazine
554
First Priority
Manufacturing
1203
Fit Fruit & Vegetable
Wash
1227
Flora, Inc.
314
Food for Life
1125
FoodScience of Vermont 535
Fountain of Youth
Technologies
841
French Meadow Bakery 1325
Froid Coffee Company 1427
Fruit Advantage
638
FTH Nutraceuticals
1616
Gaia Herbs, Inc.
1419
Garden Greens
1519
Garden of Life
433
GCI Nutrients
311
Gematria Products, Inc. 735
Gencor Pacific, Inc.
116
Genesis Today
636
GenSpec Labs LLC
1447
George’s “Always Active”
Aloe Vera
523
Geromatrix
840
Gibraltar Laboratories, Inc. 456
GLC Direct
431
Gluten Intolerance Group
of North America
1149
Glutino/
Gluten-Free Pantry
1127
Glyconutrients
Laboratories
103
GMP Laboratories of
America, Inc.
1021
Good L Corp/
Big Basket Co
1238
Gourmet Simplicity
1252
Great Earth Companies
441
Great Life Performance
Pet Products
1350
Hair No More
1352
Harmony Cone
Ear Candles
850
Hawaiian Health
Ohana LLC
1430
Health Breakthroughs
International, LLC
1448
Health King Enterprise &
Balanceuticals Group 1618
Health Plus, Inc.
933
Health Smart Foods, Inc. 1253
Health Supplement Retailer/
Virgo Publishing
217
Health Support
1452
Healthworks Distributing 639
Healthy Living Solutions 833
Healthy Talk TV and Radio
with Deborah Ray
113
Heartland Products, Inc. 1148
HerbaSway
1236
HerbDay
1527
Hero Nutritional Products 825
HGH - A Physicians Blend 329
Highland Labs
1027
Himalaya USA
520
Hobe’ Laboratories
853
Holey Soles
756
Hollywood Diet
1416
Howard Naturals
552
Hsu’s Ginseng
548
Humphreys
Pharmacal, Inc.
847
HydraMe’ Inc.
459
Ignis de Mexico,
S.A. de C.V.
348
IHS-BIO MAX
226
Imperial Nutrition, Inc. 640
Independence Distributors 928
Ingredients Corporation
of America
1426
Innovative Health
Products, Inc.
1038
Institute of Nutritional
Science
118
Iovate Health Sciences
428
Iron-Tek
600
Irwin Naturals
611
Jarrow Formulas, Inc. 1004
jojoBAR
1425
Kashi
1333
Kawase Takara
854
Kinnikinnick Foods
1139
La Molina
811
Larenim Mineral Makeup 747
LarreaRx
631
Lee’s Herbs
1629
Leland Cherry Company 1520
LibidusMale Enhancement
1316
Life Dynamics Tech.
1455
Life Extension
1326
Life Solutions
1517
Life-flo Health Care
416
LifeTime/Nutritional
Specialties, Inc.
808
Lily of the Desert
837
Liquid Life
1222
Litebook Company Ltd. 1056
Littleford Day, Inc.
1525
Live Pine
629
Living Naturally
633
Long Life Teas
600
MACA USA, Inc.
811
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
TRADE SHOW NEWS
Maitake Products, Inc.
216
Manitoba Harvest Hemp
Foods & Oils
1435
Marshall Distributing
1449
Maya Consulting Group 555
Merry Clinic
1026
Michael’s Naturopathic
Programs
830
Mill Creek Botanicals
1050
Miracell, Inc.
1054
Miracle Greens
422
Modern Products/
Fearn Natural Foods 1108
Morningstar Minerals
930
Mountain Valley
Spring Water
1140
MTS Medication
Technologies
1318
Mushroom Science
739
Mychelle Dermaceuticals 944
Nasutra LLC
836
National Association of
Nutritional Professionals1254
National Enzyme
Company
733
National Nutritional
Foods Association
816
Natural Animal Health
Products, Inc.
1317
Natural Care Products
936
Natural Factors
1000
Natural Food Network
Magazine
1338
Natural Health
International
120
Natural Path/Silver Wings 635
Natural Synergies
458
NatureAll Co., Inc.
104
Natures Benefit, Inc.
318
Nature’s Best
1130
Nature’s Health Co.
1617
Nature’s Hollow
1145
Nature’s Pearl Inc./
Le Bleu Corp.
1629
Nature’s Secret
611
Nature’s Way
407
NatureStar Biotech, Inc. 539
New Wave Enviro
1141
NHK Laboratories, Inc. 1200
NNFA Japan
536
Nordic Naturals
725
NOW Foods
307
NPICenter
438
NSF International
211
Nutri-Books
436
Nutricap Labs
425
Nutricare America
1450
Nutricology, Inc.
1218
Nutrition Now
642
Nuvite Labs
537
N-ZymeCeuticals, Inc.
540
Oat Ingredients-Oatwell 100
O’Donnell Formulas
131
Omega Products, Inc.
628
Omega-3 Brain Booster
353
Once Again Nut
Butter, Inc.
1135
Orange Guard, Inc.
1438
ORDERDOG
322
Organic Consumers
Association
1439
Organic Fiji
1418
Organix-South, Inc.
750
Palko Distributing
603
Paragon Laboratories
319
PayChex
816
Peaceful Mountain
949
PetGuard, Inc.
1041
Pill-Pac, Inc.
1202
PL Thomas
736
Planetary Herbals
730
Point of Purchase
Winners by Zorbitz
453
Polypack Inc.
645
Pomology
650
PROBAR, LLC
1129
ProcessPro Software
223
Productos Armonia
448
Protec Laboratory
1030
Pure & Basic Products
844
Pure Essence Labs
935
Pure Fruit Technologies 1320
Pure Planet Products
1205
Pure Solutions, Inc.
522
PureAyre Odor Eliminator1040
Quality of Life Labs
1116
Queen Bee Gardens
1615
Quincy Bioscience/
Prevagen Brands
1322
Recyclaholics
1355
Reliance Private Label
Supplements
1020
remedies
1628
Renew Life Formulas
1117
Retail Insights
122
RidgeCrest Herbals
1201
Right International Group
USA, Inc.
125
Royal Essence LLC
954
Ryan Machinery &
Equiptment
214
Samadhi Trading
Company
757
Sambazon
1435
Sandhu Products
230
Save Your Skin
1048
SCI
102
SEABLUE™
1625
Seelect Herb
Tea Company
617
Seitenbacher America LLC1235
Seshmaan Miracle Herbs 360
Show Me The Way
Innovations
460
Silver Colloidal
Incorporated
848
Sinol
746
Sky Softgel Co., Ltd.
114
Soki Co., Ltd.
124
Solavie Skin/
Hair Care System
1053
Solgar Vitamin and Herb 303
Song Hwa Ginseng Co.
356
Sound Nutrition
737
Source Naturals
730
The Source
1216
South Pacific Trading
Company
1328
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
Conference July 14–16 Trade Show July 15–16
Sands Expo and Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada
Sovereign Silver by Natural
Immunogenics Corp. 1029
SportsPro
330
St. Paul Brands
1353
Stevita Co. Inc.
1250
Sun Chlorella USA
1421
Sun Water Systems, Inc. 1248
Sungold Foods
1230
SunJewels
1234
Sunshine Burger
1337
Super Natural Distributors1119
Superior Trading
Company
421
Suplimed Nutrients, Inc. 321
Synax NA
1348
Tahiti Trader Co.
1111
Taiwan Chlorella Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
1530
Taste for Life
1628
Taylor Bros. Farms, Inc. 1330
TCCD International, Inc. 553
Tea Naturals Skin Care
454
Tea Tree Therapy, Inc.
852
Techmedica Health, Inc. 1516
Thayers
1045
Tishcon Corp.
728
Today’s Diet & Nutrition 229
Tonic Gold
547
Trace Minerals Research1008
Traditional Medicinals
1442
TRC Nutritional Laboratories
(Rockland)
1222
Tree of Life
821
Tribest Corp.
1133
Trinity College of
Natural Health
1522
TSN Labs, Inc.
123
Tummy Honey
Stretch Mark Solutions 953
TwinLab
607
UAS Labs
814
Ultima Health Products
839
Ultimate Raw Foods
1429
Ultra Laboratories
941
Under the Canopy
947
USDA, Agricultural
Research Service
1153
UV Natural
1046
Valerie Saxion’s
Silver Creek Labs
800
Van Atta’s Bia Baskets
455
VÄXA International
1018
Vege Chips No Hidden
Nasties
1154
Vibrant Life Vitamins
755
Vita Plus/Life Line USA
655
Vital International
1147
Vitamer Labs
312
Vitamin Angel Alliance
347
Vitamin Retailer
Magazine, Inc.
1619
Vitanica
1028
Vitasecrets
1445
Wakunaga of America
412
Waterworks4u
938
Well-Being Health
World, Inc.
359
Wellements
525
Wellzymes
549
Whole Earth
Sweetener Co.
1229
Whole Foods Magazine
208
Wild Alaskan
542
Wilke Resources, Inc.
420
Wobenzym, USA
622
World Nutrition, Inc.
1623
World Organics/
Licata Enterprises
1014
Wyldewood Cellars
1228
XanGo, LLC
444
Xlear Inc./Spry Dental
1033
XYIENCE
331
Yangzhou Chemical Import
& Export Co., Ltd.
210
Yerba Hair Care
952
Your Crown and Glory
948
ZAND/Botanical
Laboratories, Inc.
721
Zymoco Products
1110
www.nnfa.org
11
TRADE SHOW NEWS
Natural Products Professionals Prepare for
Industry’s Premier National Show, NNFA 2006
(Continued from page 1)
facing industry. Last year’s popular Scientific Poster Session, displaying research of the latest discoveries in health sciences, will also
return. Visit tradeshow.nnfa.org for a complete up-to-date listing of
the show’s educational sessions.
Highlighting the schedule is Friday afternoon’s Opening SuperSession. To kick off the event, NNFA will present its annual Crusader Awards to those association members who have made notable
contributions to the industry above and beyond commercial success.
Immediately following the ceremony, Michael T. Murray, N.D., one
of the world’s leading authorities on natural medicine, will provide
attendees with a balanced view of the latest in nutrition research.
An Opportunity-Packed Weekend
Morning yoga classes are scheduled Saturday and Sunday so attendees can restore their energy before heading to the show floor.
InfoSessions will continue to be offered on Saturday, and attendees
can also stop by the Technical Session Theater on the show floor,
where participants will hold small, in-depth sessions on more technical topics such as regulatory, legislative, and scientific issues.
Before the show floor opens Saturday morning, NNFA will
proudly welcome Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R-Utah), long-time natural
products industry champion, as he delivers the main Keynote
Address, Healthy Politics and Policy: An Insider’s Perspective. The
keynote immediately follows a welcome address from NNFA President David Taylor and the presentation of the 2006 Burton Kallman, Rachel Carson, and President’s awards.
The vibrant world of natural products will then come alive as
the 2006 show floor opens and attendees explore the latest offerings
in food and beverage products, dietary supplements, personal care,
sports nutrition, pet products, and more. The intimate environment
of NNFA’s shows maximizes the potential for one-on-one time
between enthusiastic buyers and pioneering exhibitors.
Among the many special events scheduled are the 12th Annual
People’s Choice Awards blind taste-test competition, the Product
Trends Theater, healthy cooking demonstrations, prize drawings,
the new Idea Center and Retailer Advantage Program, and much
more! Saturday evening, attendees should be sure they don’t miss
the gala Anniversary Bash, where NNFA will celebrate 70 years of
association success…Las Vegas style!
A full schedule continues into Sunday with the association’s
annual business meeting where attendees will learn about NNFA’s
annual successes and operations. Then enjoy the presentation of the
Socially Responsible Retailer and NNFA Clinician awards and the
Closing SuperSession. Guest speaker Frank Murray, long time
industry publisher, who will show attendees how our long history
will help create a strong future. Healthy cooking demonstrations
will continue during Sunday’s show as well as final prize drawings,
where one lucky attendee will win $10,000 cash!
NNFA 2006 is an indispensable opportunity for natural products professionals to join a 70-year tradition of exciting and fun networking at the industry’s best natural products trade show of the
summer. For more information on attending NNFA 2006, please
visit tradeshow.nnfa.org. ❦
Show Sponsors
THANK
YOU!
12
www.nnfa.org
R
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
Find out what’s next for the natural products industry.
Conference July 20–22, 2007
Trade Show July 21–22, 2007
Sands Expo and Convention Center
L a s V e g a s , N e v a d a
IN THE NEWS
Q&A: AERs
NNFA Board of Directors
(Continued from page 2)
Executive Committee:
Q
A
Will this AER bill help trial lawyers with evidence against the
industry for lawsuits?
The AER bill provides explicitly that the submission of any serious adverse event report
shall not be construed as an admission that the product caused or contributed to the
adverse event or otherwise caused or contributed to a death, serious injury or illness. Keep in
mind that anyone—including trial attorneys—can already access dietary supplement adverse
event reports under the current CAERS program.
Q
A
Did NNFA have any input into the proposed AER bill?
Yes. Throughout the legislative process, NNFA and other associations have been given
the opportunity to provide input about the AER bill. The NNFA team took care to
protect retailers and the industry by emphasizing that a meaningful and fair AER bill must:
(1) be limited to serious adverse events, not require reporting just any complaint; (2) include
OTC drugs; (3) not force retailers to report; (4) be limited to products sold in the United
States; (5) allow third parties to report or evaluate claims; and (6) include a state preemption provision. Because these objectives were achieved and for some of the reasons discussed
below, the NNFA Board of Directors decided to support the AER bill.
Q
A
How can the proposed AER Bill help the industry?
These increased responsibilities on the part of manufacturers will likely benefit the
industry in the long run in a few ways: It will thwart continuing press articles stating
that dietary supplement safety is not monitored; It will help improve the public perception
of the dietary supplement industry by demonstrating that—contrary to media reports—the
industry is regulated; and over time, the recordkeeping and reporting requirements will substantiate what many in the industry have been saying—that the safety record of dietary supplements compares favorably to other health-related products. ❦
David Taylor, President
Nature’s Harvest Market & Deli, Tampa, Fla.
Paul Bennett, Past President
Harvest Moon Natural Foods, Olathe, Kan.
Jane Drinkwalter, Treasurer
Vitamer Labs, Lake Forest, Calif.
Rory Mahony, Chair, Supply Council
Nature’s Way, Springville, Utah
Adrienne Mastrobattista, Chair, Retail Council
The Organic Warehouse, Bartonsville, Pa.
Board of Directors:
Randy Dennin
Capsugel, Greenwood, S.C.
Jodi Drexler Billet
Country Life/Desert Essence, Hauppauge, N.Y.
Mark Fox
IdeaSphere, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Cheryl Hughes
Whole Wheatery, West Lancaster, Calif.
Harvey Kamil
NBTY, Bohemia, N.Y.
Soodi Kick
Nuts ‘N Berries, Atlanta, Ga.
Richard League
Mothers Cupboard Natural Foods, Spokane, Wash.
Greg Leonard
Tree of Life, St. Augustine, Fla.
Jim Lewis
Sunseed Natural Foods Inc., Juneau, Wis.
Richard Merriam
GCI Nutrients, Burlingame, Calif.
Marianne Morgan
Health Habit, San Andreas, Calif.
Matt Murray
Green Acres Natural Foods Market, Wichita, Kan.
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.
Pat Sardell
Country Vitamins, Corvallis, Ore.
Sharon Sherman
Pet Guard, Green Cove Springs, Fla.
Tom Sokoloff
Paradise Health Foods, Palm Bay, Fla.
Editorial Director: Tracy Taylor
Editor: Amanda Thomason
Graphic Designer: Kimberly Harrigan
Printing: Network Printing, San Dimas, Calif.
14
www.nnfa.org
Send inquiries to NNFA at:
2112 E. Fourth Street, Suite 200
Santa Ana, Calif. 92705
(800) 966-6632 Fax: (714) 460-7444
e-mail: [email protected]
John Venardos
HerbaLife International, Century City, Calif.
Carrol Wells
Honey Bee Natural Foods, Brownwood, Texas
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
NNFA Today, Volume 20 No. 7 / July 2006
www.nnfa.org
15
TODAY
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