Canada forms new federal natural products organization

In response to growing public demand for herbs and dietary supplements, the Canadian government announced that it will set aside $10 million to establish a natural products organization within Health Canada. The office will fund research on supplements, speed the approval process for new products, and consider reintroducing controversial supplements such as melatonin and DHEA. The 16-member panel heading the effort is expected to include many members of the supplement industry. The office should be in place by the end of 1999.Natural Foods Merchandiser, June 1999.