Canada Starts Labeling for Certain Natural Products

Herbal remedies, homeopathic medicines, vitamins, minerals, traditional medicines, probiotics, amino acids, and essential fatty acids will all fall under the new Natural Products Regulations law. For a manufacturer to obtain a license to sell his or her products, he or she must submit to Health Canada the product's medicinal ingredients, source, potency, nonmedicinal ingredients, and recommended use. Once licensed, the product will be labeled with NPN or DIN-HN (homeopathic medicine) and a license number. The label will detail directions for use, any health claims, medicinal and nonmedicinal ingredients, and any contraindications or known adverse effects. Phase-in should take 2 to 6 years. (National Academies, July 1, 2003)