Canadian Health Food Association > NEWSROOM

Natural Health Product Fast Facts

The natural health product industry is currently valued at over $3.5 billion, and employs more than 25,000 individuals.
Under the Natural Health Product Regulations, which came into effect in 2004, a natural health product is defined as:
- Vitamins and minerals;
- Herbal remedies;
- Homeopathic medicines;
- Traditional medicines such as traditional Chinese medicines;
- Probiotics; and,
- Other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids.
As the Canadian population ages, there will be increased demand for preventative healthcare products and increased self-medication – good news for the NHP industry.
NHP sales were also bolstered by a media-driven increase in consumer awareness, especially for probiotics and vitamin D supplements.
The 2009 economic downturn had a significant effect on the NHP industry, but also convinced some consumers to switch from high-cost prescription drugs to NHPs instead.
71% of Canadians have used a natural health product, and 77% of Canadians agree that NHP’s can be used to maintain or promote health.
Canadians most associate NHPs with vitamins and minerals (13%) and herbal remedies and teas (12%).
The Unprocessed Product Licence Applications Regulations (UPLAR) for Natural Health Products came into effect on Aug 4, 2010. The new regulations will allow the legal sale of natural health products that are currently awaiting review and approval of their submission by NHPD. CHFA was a key driver of these regulations and will continue to monitor its implementation.
Where can you buy natural health products? Retailers of NHP’s include health food stores, traditional Chinese medicine retailers, direct sellers, pharmacies, and health care practitioners. There are at least 10,000 retail establishments in Canada that offer NHP’s.