CHPA Adopts Voluntary Labeling, Ingredient Programs

CHPA Adopts Voluntary Labeling, Ingredient Programs

WASHINGTON--The Consumer Healthcare Products Association(CHPA) has adopted several new voluntary programs for its members. The programs fall in the ingredient and labeling provision areas, and complement existing programs concerning St. John'swort, ephedra and labeling for pregnant and nursing women. "We want to ensure both the quality and the safety of the products so that consumers can feel a strong sense of confidence when it comes time to make their self-care selections," said MichaelMaves, M.D., CHPA president.
In the ingredient area, CHPA members adopted seven voluntary programs, which had already been adopted by members of the American Herbal Products Association(AHPA). First, CHPA members agreed to conduct analysis and provide guarantees that the raw materials Siberian ginseng root, plantain leaf, skullcap herb and stephania root have not been substituted or adulterated with known toxic adulterants. Specific botanicals that already have programs include ginseng (ensuring noquintozene), goldenseal, kava and lady's slipper. All products with botanical ingredients containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids should now include specific cautions on the label. Finally, CHPA members agreed that products containing any of several indicated stimulant laxative botanicals should be labeled with the common name and plant part.
The general labeling provision that was adopted concerned disclosure of added constituents. All botanical raw materials should contain on both the bulk material packaging and the product specification sheets all added constituents in order of predominance using common names, as well as other material attributes.
The voluntary programs were adopted in early March by CHPA members, with a recommended implementation date of March 8, 2002, or, if related to labeling, at the next printing. Further information is available at CHPA's Web site,www.chpa-info.org, or stop by SupplySide East Booth #1529.