Welcome to Episode 168 of our podcast, where we dive into a topic that affects us all – the potential risk to natural health products. Whether you’re a new or loyal listener, it’s likely that you incorporate supplements into your daily routine and prioritize the impact of food on your well-being. The abundance of studies linking health to natural health products, such as magnesium supplements, can sometimes be overwhelming. Today, we shed light on the regulatory landscape behind these products, the proposed changes by Health Canada, and the potential implications for consumers. Join us on this informative journey to understand the situation and discover what actions you can take.

In Canada, natural health products are defined as naturally occurring substances that contribute to restoring or maintaining good health. They encompass various forms such as tablets, capsules, tinctures, creams, and more. Unbeknownst to many, strict regulations govern the products available on store shelves, including supermarkets, pharmacies, health food stores, and even my own supplement line, TAKE THIS by Lianne on sproutright.com. Health Canada mandates an approved Natural Product Number (NPN), an eight-digit code ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and quality of natural health products.

Similar regulatory bodies exist in different countries. For instance, the FDA oversees health claims and approvals in the United States, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK, and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia. While conspiracy theories and safety concerns may arise, our focus here is to stick to the facts surrounding Health Canada’s proposed changes.

Health Canada and the government are currently considering amendments that would treat natural health products more like pharmaceutical drugs, potentially leading to cost-prohibitive measures for those involved in formulating, producing, and selling these products. The document titled “Proposed Fees for Natural Health Products,” dated May 23, 2023, has caused significant waves in the natural health community. Today, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what is happening in Canada, as these changes may set a precedent for other countries.

Our guest today is Shawn Buckley, the president of the Natural Health Products Protection Association (NHPPA). Shawn is a Constitutional Lawyer and an expert in defending natural health stakeholders against prosecution by Health Canada. He sheds light on the current situation and shares valuable insights into the potential impact on consumers.

During the interview, we delve into various aspects, including the government’s motives behind these changes, the effects on consumers’ access to natural health products, and the availability of these products in the market. We explore whether this issue extends beyond Canada’s borders and discuss why it hasn’t received significant mainstream attention. Additionally, we address the consultation period and how individuals can make their voices heard.

The potential risk to natural health products is a pressing matter that demands our attention. Many Canadians rely on these products for their well-being and quality of life. We encourage you to stay informed and take action by participating in the ongoing consultation process. Your opinion matters in shaping the future of natural health products and ensuring their continued accessibility. Don’t miss out on the chance to make a difference. Together, we can protect our freedom to choose and preserve the benefits that natural health products offer.

Important links: 

• Shawn Buckley’s Discussion paper

• The initial Bill C-47 budget mentions (search for 500)

• Gowling Ottawa Assessment and Article – HEALTH CANADA’S PROPOSAL ON COST RECOVERY FOR NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS RAISES QUESTIONS

• Health Canada Brief

Have your say: 

• Direct to Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/programs/consultation-proposed-fees-natural-health-products.html 

• https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/programs/consultation-proposed-fees-natural-health-products.html

Love the show? Then you’re likely on the supplement train, and we could all be kicked off with what is going on, and you need to know. An important look at what’s happening that you may not know about. 

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