Articles by Eric Munson
Study Finds Higher Linoleic Acid Levels Linked to Lower Body Fat
A new large-scale study from the Fatty Acid Research Institute (FARI) and OmegaQuant provides compelling evidence that higher levels of linoleic acid (LA)—the most common omega-6 fatty acid in the diet—are associated with lower body weight, smaller waist circumference and reduced body fat. Published in the British Journal of Nutrition, the study analyzed data from ...
Texas Attorney General Launches Protein Powder Investigation
On June 8, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an industry-wide investigation into protein powder manufacturers based on concerns of heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, found in popular protein powders. Paxton cited research from Consumer Reports (CR) claiming lead levels in plant-based protein powders were, on average, nine time higher than those made ...
John Mastel, Founder of Mastel’s Health Foods, Dies at 89
On June 2, John James Mastel Sr., founder of independent natural retailer Mastel’s Health Foods in Saint Paul, MN, died in Roseville, MN at age 89 from Alzheimer’s disease. Mastel’s was Vitamin Retailer’s Retailer of the Year in 2021. Mastel was born on April 14, 1937 in Trail City, SD and as a child suffered ...
MegaFood Unveils New Updated Packaging
On May 27, MegaFood (Manchester, NH) announced it has given its product labels a fresh new look. The updated labels help tell the story that has always been at the heart of the company—real food, trusted science and nutrients designed to work with the body. For more than 50 years, MegaFood has been guided by ...
Vytalogy Wellness Partners With Nonprofit First Descents
Colorado-based Vytalogy Wellness, parent company of Natrol and Jarrow Formulas, announced its partnership with First Descents, a national nonprofit that provides free, life-changing adventures for young adults impacted by cancer, multiple sclerosis and other serious health conditions. As part of the multi-year collaboration, Vytalogy has committed $750,000 to expand access to First Descent’s programs. Vytalogy ...
Olipop Introduces New Creative Platform, “The Feel Good Soda”
Olipop (Oakland, CA) announced the launch of “The Feel Good Soda,” a new creative platform that will roll out alongside a new visual identity, refreshed packaging and a national advertising campaign. According to the company, the new creative platform captures the layered Olipop experience—a delicious soda that satisfies in the moment, paired with the lasting ...
NOW Tests Lavender Essential Oils Sold on Amazon, Majority Failed
NOW (Bloomingdale, IL) continued its commitment to product quality and transparency in the essential oil industry by evaluating 28 lavender essential oil products purchased from Amazon. According to the company, the goal was to determine whether products marketed as “Lavandula angustifolia” or “pure lavender essential oil” were consistent with the composition expected of authentic lavender ...
![[Extra! Extra!] Industry Educator Discusses Latest Herbal and Botanical Innovations](https://vitaminretailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Herbs-Botanicals-300x294-1779896009.jpg)
[Extra! Extra!] Industry Educator Discusses Latest Herbal and Botanical Innovations
Jodi Schneider, national educator at Vibrant Health (Shelton, CT), discussed some of the latest innovations for the herbal and botanical supplements category. One the most important advancements is a focus on bioavailability—how well the body can absorb and utilize nutrients. Brands are increasingly investing in innovative delivery technologies, such as liposomal systems, high-potency extracts and ...
The Growing Market for Herb & Botanical Formulas
Increasing interest from consumers and retailers spurs new areas of application, along with a demand for quality. Herbs and botanicals are now one of the most popular and innovative supplement categories. In its 2024 Herb Market Report, the American Botanical Council (ABC) reported U.S. consumers spent $680 million more on herbal supplements in 2024 compared ...
Senators Introduce Dietary Supplements Access Act, Industry Responds
On May 20, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Curtis (R-UT) introduced the Dietary Supplements Access Act, legislation that would allow dietary supplements to be purchased using HSAs (Health Savings Accounts), FSAs (Flexible Spending Accounts), and HRAs (Health Reimbursement Arrangements). The measure is designed to give families more flexibility to invest in preventative health ...
Don't Miss Out!
Industry Professionals
Stay Informed!
Stay informed about the latest health, nutrition, and wellness developments by signing up for a FREE subscription to Vitamin Retailer magazine and digital newsletter.
Once subscribed, you will receive industry insights, product trends, and important news directly to your doorstep and inbox.
Featured Listing:
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay Informed! Breaking news, industry trends featured topics, and more.
Subscribe to our newsletter today!