This year's Natural Products Association "Natural Products Day" had the most participants since the event began in 1997. Nearly 200 industry delegates joined in, gathering together in groups representing their states and state districts to further educate Congressional members about the food safety issues concerning natural products.

Altogether, the groups managed to meet with the leaders of 180 congressional offices, including two-thirds of all freshman legislators. Meeting with the Senators and Representatives, industry advocates discussed the importance of natural products in healthcare reform, the need for high standards of GMPs, and the need to updated the Childhood Nutrition Act which put into law in 1966. Additionally, advocates discussed the current structures and functions of DSHEA with newer lawmakers.

Following the meetings with Congress, the NPA held a reception honoring Senate leaders Orrin Hatch (Utah), Tom Harkin (Iowa), Jon Tester (Montana), Tom Coburn (Oklahoma), and House leaders Frank Pallone (New Jersey) and Jason Chaffetz (Utah), all of whom have played an important role in supporting natural products in past Congressional sessions.

All in all, we saw industry advocates from 38 states and the District of Columbia attend the event, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stepped forward and let your voice be heard. Let's make next year an even greater success!