CONTACT
CRN — Judy Blatman (202) 204-7962
NNFA — Tracy Taylor (949) 622-6272 ext. 245
UNPA — Loren Israelsen (801) 474-2570

Supplement Industry Trade Associations Respond to FDA Action on Ephedra

– Associations Note DSHEA Provides Adequate Regulatory Authority –

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 12, 2004 - Three key trade associations of the dietary supplement industry today announced they will not challenge the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) final rule banning dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids, noting that the agency's action demonstrates that the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) provides FDA with the legal authority to take strong evidence-based regulatory action.

While the associations do not agree with every point in FDA's justification for the final rule, they believe the agency has presented a balanced rationale.  The final rule demonstrates a substantial level of effort by FDA, appropriate to the issues presented by ephedra.  FDA's discussion of the rule indicates that the agency supports access to dietary supplements "that are safe, properly labeled, and in compliance with Federal law."  The associations affirmed that they are committed to working with their member companies and with FDA to ensure that dietary supplements are safe, beneficial, made to high quality standards, properly labeled, and in compliance with the law. 

Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN)

CRN has represented key manufacturers of dietary supplement ingredients and products for 30 years, providing its member companies with regulatory guidance, scientific information on the benefits and safety of dietary supplements, public relations expertise, and legislative support.

National Nutritional Foods Association (NNFA)

NNFA was founded in 1936 and represents the interests of some 5,000 retailers, manufacturers, and distributors of natural products, including health foods, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. 

Utah Natural Products Alliance (UNPA)

UNPA was organized in 1991 and represents the interests of the $3 billion dietary supplement industry based in Utah.