The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) is taking a proactive stance by urging Canadians to stand up for their access to natural health products through the Save Our Supplements campaign.

Now is the time to take action and make your voice heard before July 26, 2023. By utilizing the quick and convenient form provided by the SOS campaign, you can write a letter to your Member of Parliament (MP) and contribute to stopping these detrimental changes. Additionally, spread the word and encourage others to join the cause!

Natural health products, abbreviated as NHPs, are an essential part of Canadians' proactive self-care and wellness routines.

In Canada, a Natural Health Product Number should be found on your supplement labels. This eight-digit number will look like ‘NPN XXXXXXXX’ and is normally found in small print. This license is required to ensure the safety and efficacy of natural health products, and it’s also required for a brand to make health claims – which must be supported by proper evidence. Evidence to state claims may include clinical trial data or references to published studies, journals, pharmacopoeias, or traditional resources.

In order for a brand to make claims on its labels, they need to submit an application to provide the following information:
 

• Medicinal ingredients
• Source
• Dose
• Potency
• Non-medical ingredients
• Recommended uses

Under the Canadian Food and Drugs Act, natural health products must be classified as either food or a drug. Natural health products include vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies, homoeopathic medicines, traditional medicines, probiotics, and other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids. Health food products such as teas, herbs, protein, and greens powders do not require this number.

Complying with the new, intricate, and expensive fees will compel brands to reassess their product lines, resulting in the discontinuation of products that are deemed too costly or unprofitable. Consequently, Canadians will have fewer products and brands to choose from when purchasing natural health items.

The other proposed changes will substantially increase the amount of packaging required for your favored natural health products, reducing recyclability and negatively impacting the environment in the process.

Take action by contacting your Member of Parliament (MP) and let your voice be heard. Each individual's contribution matters, and by expressing your concerns and objections to these proposed changes, you can play a significant role in safeguarding your access to supplements and natural health products. Remember, your elected representatives are there to represent your interests, and by reaching out to them, you can ensure that they are aware of the importance of maintaining affordable and accessible natural health options for all Canadians.

In unity, there is strength. Share this urgent message with your friends, family, and social networks to rally support and generate a groundswell of opposition against these damaging regulations. Inform them about the Save Our Supplements Campaign and encourage them to join the cause. By raising awareness and mobilizing a larger community, we can create a powerful movement that cannot be ignored.

Together, we can protect the thriving natural health sector that plays a vital role in the lives of millions of Canadians. By standing up for our right to choose and access high-quality natural health products, we can ensure that our well-being remains a priority. Let's show Health Canada that we are united in our commitment to preserving our supplements and natural health products.

As we navigate these proposed changes, it's essential to remember the importance of supporting local businesses and sustainable practices. Many small and medium-sized enterprises in the natural health industry may face immense challenges due to the burdensome fees and requirements. By consciously choosing to purchase from local brands and producers, we can contribute to the resilience and growth of our communities.

Additionally, prioritize products and brands that embrace sustainable packaging solutions. Look for eco-friendly alternatives that minimize waste and have a positive impact on the environment. By making conscious choices, we can align our values with our purchasing decisions and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Natural health products have become an integral part of the lives of millions of Canadians, offering an alternative and complementary approach to wellness. They provide us with the tools to take charge of our health, promote holistic well-being, and support our proactive self-care journeys. By preserving our access to supplements and natural health products, we are advocating for our right to make informed choices about our well-being.

Remember the tremendous positive impact that these products have had on our lives. They contribute to our overall health and happiness, allowing us to lead fulfilling and balanced lifestyles. Let's ensure that future generations have the same opportunities by standing together and defending our access to the natural health products that have become a trusted part of our lives.