The Natural Products Association (NPA) hosted its 18th Annual Natural Products Day in Washington, D.C. on March 24. Attendance at the event increased by 30 percent, and included a diverse range of retailers, suppliers and other industry members who met with over 90 members of Congress and staff to educate them on the industry’s issues and natural products’ role in preventive health and overall wellness.

Natural Products Day included a reception on Capitol Hill with attendees, legislators and congressional staff. Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R-Utah), spoke on the trials the industry has faced, and how he will continue to support the industry in the fight against misinformation and unfounded attacks. Sen. Jerry Moran, (R-Kan), also addressed attendees, voicing his support for the natural products industry. Throughout the day guests met with lawmakers and congressional staff members from their districts and states to educate them on the natural products industry, and shared position papers and backgrounders by NPA.

Legislators and staff were also educated about key issues, such as the multiple actions taken against the industry by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, and defending the definition of organic as non-GMO in any pending legislation. Senators and representatives were also informed about the overly burdensome requirements being pushed on NPA members by the Federal Trade Commission. Other popular topics regarded holding the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accountable in the regulation of dietary supplements, and possible cosmetics legislation.

“The association will continue to connect members with lawmakers who impact their bottom line, but we need the help of all industry stakeholders, who can grow our influence year round by directly communicating with their senators and representatives,” explained Daniel Fabricant, PhD, CEO and executive director of NPA. “We appreciate our loyal members who stormed Capitol Hill on Natural Products Day to talk to their lawmakers about key industry issues.”

For more information, visit www.NPAinfo.org.