Canadians are active and enthusiastic consumers who use Natural Health Products as part of their daily health regime. Every day, we make informed choices about NHPs that help us and our families stay healthy and fit. Canadians are actively involved in researching and deciding on which NHP best suits their needs. They are educated on the benefits that are derived from NHPs. Currently, over 50,000 NHPs are available in Canada including:
- Vitamins and minerals
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathic medicines
- Traditional medicines such as Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM)
- Probiotics
- Amino acids and essential fatty acids
- Other supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine
NHPs are used to promote good health and sold in many different forms including:
- Powders
- Tablets and capsules
- Salves and creams
- Liquid extracts and tinctures
- Teas
- Food-format
- Waters
Most Canadian communities have one or more natural health retailers. Prices are reasonable, service is face-to-face, and retailers stand by the products in their stores. Manufacturers are devoted to providing high quality products and continue to invest ever-increasing amounts in reliable research and development. Good Manufacturing Practices help to ensure that what is on the label is in the product. Consumers enjoy access to a wide variety of NHPs and eagerly support the industry with their purchasing power. Today, however, the NHP industry faces regulatory constraints that are not reasonable and not consistent with the 53 recommendations of the Standing Committee and will drastically restrict your right to make personal decisions and choices regarding health care products.