Outlook on the Nutraceuticals Market for 2024-2025
We sought insights from industry experts deeply versed in marketplace dynamics to discuss significant trends and developments in business, regulation, science, and the market that the industry should focus on in the upcoming year. Their insights span a range of issues, highlighting common themes such as state regulations, global supply chain strategies, women’s health, and more.
Michael McGuffin, President of the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), noted that 2024 brought considerable external pressures on the industry from both state and federal critics who often confuse legal, safe dietary supplements with illegal products. He emphasized the importance of industry unity to capitalize on the opportunities the new political landscape offers, particularly in distinguishing dietary supplements from less regulated products. AHPA is advocating for legislative changes to strengthen the FDA’s ability to crack down on illicit products disguised as supplements, thereby protecting consumers and the industry’s integrity.
The industry faces challenges, including state-level initiatives that could restrict access to dietary supplements, energized by changes in federal power. These issues, while not new, will be pivotal in 2025 as the industry aims to double down on its commitment to safety, transparency, and consumer protection. Proactive collaboration among all stakeholders in the dietary supplement community will be crucial.
Duffy MacKay, Senior VP of Dietary Supplements at the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), reflected on the FDA’s ongoing concerns about supplements with hidden or misleading ingredients marketed for weight loss, sexual enhancement, and bodybuilding. The issue of fraudulent supplements came to the forefront following a significant investigation by the New York State Attorney General in 2015, which accused retailers of selling fraudulent supplements. This led to a shift towards “regulation by retail,” where retailers began implementing their own quality checks, creating a patchwork of standards that manufacturers struggle to navigate.
Steve Mister, President and CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), discussed the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which has been a foundational law for the dietary supplement industry for nearly three decades. He argued against sweeping changes to DSHEA, advocating instead for targeted refinements to enhance FDA enforcement and align oversight with market growth. These adjustments aim to modernize DSHEA without compromising its core principles of consumer access to safe products and robust FDA oversight.
Karen Howard, CEO and Executive Director of the Organic & Natural Health Association, highlighted the organization’s focus on integrity, access, and innovation in regulatory, business, and scientific domains. Their efforts are geared towards improving testing methodologies, enhancing transparency, and addressing the health needs of minority populations, women, and children.
Loren Israelsen, President of the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA), discussed the significant changes and debates within the industry and public sphere, particularly in light of political shifts and regulatory developments. He emphasized the importance of industry engagement to navigate these changes effectively.
Jim Emme, CEO of NOW Health Group, reported strong growth in 2024, driven by improved supply chain dynamics and stable ingredient costs, despite ongoing challenges with freight costs. He also noted regulatory challenges, particularly at the state level, which could impact consumer access to certain products.
These insights from industry leaders underscore the complex interplay of regulatory, market, and scientific factors that will shape the dietary supplement industry in the coming year. Their collective emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and proactive engagement highlights the path forward in navigating these challenges.