Natural Health and Organic Products Industry Urges Queen's Park to Recognize it as Integral to Ontario's Well-Being
2009-05-13
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Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA)
Today, the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) and a group of its Ontario members were at Queen’s Park to discuss with MPPs, the importance of natural health products, whole foods and organics as a primary source of well-being.
CHFA’s first-ever Queen’s Park “Take Action – Act Natural” day aims to increase awareness and knowledge around natural and organic products with all Ontarians and remind consumers that these products are key components of achieving optimal health.
“It’s vital for our MPPs to understand how important our industry is to the health of the economy and the wellness of Ontarians,” says CHFA President and CEO, Penelope Marrett.
On top of underscoring the importance of natural health products and organics, CHFA members also raised their concern about the potential impact on natural health and organic prices that the proposed Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) will carry, especially in the short term. “Real choice shouldn’t cost more,” adds CHFA’s Marrett.
“We need to work closely with the Ontario government to ease any financial fallout for natural health and organic products’ consumers,” continues Marrett. “And we hope the overall tax package will lead to lower costs and greater competitiveness for Ontario’s small- and medium-sized businesses.”
The natural health product industry in Canada has been regulated since 2004, and the organics industry will also be regulated as of June 30th, 2009 – both moves will give Canadians more confidence in the industry and its products. The CHFA represents 1,100 business owners and operators and an industry that contributes $3.5 billion to the Canadian economy.
For more information on the CHFA, visit www.chfa.ca
The Canadian Health Food Association is Canada’s largest national trade association dedicated to the natural and organic products industry. Our members represent the entire supply chain, including growers, manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and importers involved in a variety of industry sub-sectors, such as vitamin and mineral supplements, herbal products, homeopathics, sports nutrition products, natural and organic foods, fibres and health and beauty aids. CHFA member products support Canadians seeking optimal health and well-being.
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