Every year, since 1981 manufacturers distributors and retail buyers of natural, organic and healthy products converge at Natural Products Expo West, the largest natural products trade show in the country.
That first year there were 3,000 attendees and 234 exhibitors. This year more than 2,600 exhibiting companies played to an audience of over 67,000 industry members.
Companies from the US and around the world displayed all manner of food, beverage, supplement, beauty, household and pet products demonstrating the phenomenal growth of the global natural products industry.
Among industry veterans, there were 635 first-time exhibitors. Many Natural Products Expo West first-time exhibitors are ‘home cooks,’ passionate moms and nutrition-focused athletes who have launched their own products.
The growing gluten-free vegan and other special diet communities are fueling the healthy eating movement and changing the way people view food and community.
The prevalence of prominent Non-GMO labels on display is the result of consumer demand for transparency in labeling as industry mavens predict that the healthy eating trend is strong and spreading across all demographic groups.
Jon Tanklage of Marukan USA, makers of a variety of premium, natural and organic rice vinegars, which are Non-GMO verified had this to say about the GMO issue. “There may not be enough scientific evidence to say that the genetically modified seed itself is causing a problem or causing cancer, but it’s the reason why they are developing genetically modified seed; the reason why is so that can spray more pesticide on the product.”
“Those pesticides, as we know are not good for the environment, not good for human consumption, causing all kind of problems and thought to be leading to Celiac disease and other health risks.”
Expo West is the place to debut new products and Sophie’s kitchen has 9 products in its line of vegan seafood. Eugene Wang was showcasing a new wood-smoked Vegan Salmon that is available now and Vegan Toona, scheduled to roll out to stores in the fall. Both tasted pretty authentic and really delicious.
Living Harvest – Tempt launched the first ever hemp tofu at the show and it was really firm and had more flavor than traditional tofu.
RawFoodz, makers of Zen Budda raw buttery spread and a number of tasty raw dressings was introducing a raw ‘Chee” Sauce, a really creamy raw cheese sauce. Their products are certified organic.
Jay Klein, founder and CEO of Pur Gum was promoting his line of all natural chewing gum with the motto, “Kick Aspartame.” Pur Gum, the leading chewing gum in the health food market worldwide is sweetened with Xylitol and vegan.
One of the most innovative products I sampled was 1Hour Break, an effective all natural oral spray that targets stress. A blend of kava kava, lobelia, passion flower and lemon balm, this preparation is delivered sublingually; just a couple sprays under the tongue and a tingling sensation ensues before and tension subsides. I really liked it! VegTV at Expo West Video
John Salley was at the show again looking amazing, as usual. At 6’11”, John is the epitome of the powerful vegan athlete hanging out and promoting vegan products with humor and panache. Interview with John Salley at Expo West Video
via:http://www.ecomii.com/blogs/food/2014/03/22/expo-west-largest-natural-organic-and-healthy-products-event/
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