Quality at the Forefront

The topic of quality is not new to the dietary supplement industry or to Natural Products INSIDER magazine. What is new is the magnitude of the conversation, thanks to the melamine/imported ingredient issue, the final GMP regulation and a number of other high-profile “quality” situations. As Loren Israelsen so aptly put it in our story starting on page 36, the result is a “perfect storm” that may result in positive changes throughout the supply chain. 

As the leading publication for decision makers in the industry, we understand our responsibility to cover these issues in a timely, detailed and accurate manner. Actually, we live for this stuff. Our editorial team is working hard to keep you in front of the story and help you digest it. In fact, we are pleased to introduce a regularly appearing feature on quality in this issue. Look here for insightful and honest coverage on different aspects of this complex subject—and don’t hesitate to tell us what you think. 

On a related note, I encourage you to take advantage of our on-demand GMP Webinar available on www.nutrilearn.com. This three-hour event, produced in conjunction with the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), will give you in-depth analysis of the final GMP regulation provided by an all-star panel of experts, including FDA. Even if you have made the time to read the entire 800-page regulation, the insight you will gain from this Webinar will prove very useful as you prepare for compliance. 

The quality issue is also taking center stage at SuppySide West, Nov. 6 to 8 in Las Vegas. We have sessions on the GMPs, import concerns, China, India, organic standards and, of course, our popular “State-of-the-Industry” double session featuring CRN, the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) and the Natural Products Association (NPA). With the show three months away, the agenda is still developing, so be sure to check www. SupplySideShow.com for the latest details. 

Finally, please mark Jan. 22 to 25, 2008, on your calendar and plan to join us here in Scottsdale, Ariz., for the sixth annual Focus on the Future executive conference and retreat. Quality has always been a hot issue at this event, and it will be again. Visit www.FocusOnTheFuture.net for the agenda and details. 

Rest assured, we will continue to deliver the most in-depth and accurate coverage of quality and all of the other topics that affect your business. Please let us know how we are doing and feel free to join the conversation. As always, we are at your service.

Best regards,

Jon Benninger
Director of Business Development
(480) 990-1101, Ext. 1108
jonb@vpico.com

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