The Natural Health Product manufacturing industry in Canada is still a very competitive and innovative marketplace despite 20 000 products being removed due to the regulations introduced in 2004. The Natural Health Product Directorate has placed 70% of NHP’s in danger and Bill C51 will make the environment more hostile.

In order to ensure an innovative and competitive industry, we must NOT over-regulate and cause a monopolization of the industry by a few large firms. In Australia, the industry went from hundreds of manufacturers to only four in 10 years, after Bill C-51 style regulations were introduced. Our radio show Health Empowerment with Croft Woodruff has received a large amount of feedback from listeners about Bill C-51 and the message is clear. People do not want their foods, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and fatty acids treated like drugs. These products are safe and effective.

Andrew McGivern