PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 7, 2003--General Nutrition Centers, the largest specialty retailer of nutritional supplements, launched its first ephedra-free dietary supplement - GNC Total Lean(TM).
 
The thermogenic formula is clinically researched to increase metabolism and boost energy. A 14-day meal and exercise program is included with each product to help the user burn more calories.

"As the industry leader in providing high quality products and meeting consumer demands, GNC is pleased to bring this revolutionary, ephedra-free product to our customers," said Michael K. Meyers, GNC President and Chief Executive Officer. "GNC Total Lean is more than a dietary supplement. It's a program that combines a basic 1,500 calorie meal and exercise plan in addition to supplementation," he added.

Clinical research has shown the effectiveness of this formulation, which includes guarana seed extract, black tea leaves extract, grape skin and seed extracts, ginger root extract and dill weed extract.

The meal and exercise plan were developed in cooperation with registered dietitians and health professionals. Each day's menu meets the guidelines suggested by the USDA Food Guide Pyramid, which calls for a balanced approach emphasizing variety. The menu provides an average of 1,500 calories per day, with 40% of calories from carbohydrates and 30% of calories each from protein and fat.

General Nutrition Companies, Inc. (GNC), based in Pittsburgh, PA, is the largest nationwide specialty retailer of vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements, sports nutrition as well as personal care and related products. GNC operates more than 5,300 retail outlets throughout the United States, including 1,360 domestic franchise locations, and 26 foreign markets including Canada and Mexico. GNC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Numico N.V., a worldwide market leader in specialized nutrition that includes infant and clinical nutrition and nutritional supplements. Headquartered in Zoetermeer, The Netherlands, Royal Numico's operations include manufacturing facilities in more than 50 countries and research facilities in the Netherlands, Germany, the U.K., China, Australia and the USA. Additional information can be found on www.numico.com and www.gnc.com.