Canada's appetite for natural health and organic products is skyrocketing

B.C. companies leading the way in this booming industry

VANCOUVER, April 18, 2012 /CNW/ - Vancouver is playing host to Western Canada's largest trade event 'CHFA West' at the Vancouver Convention Centre, West Building from Thursday, April 19 through to Sunday, April 22. Organized by the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), it is the largest gathering of natural health and organic leaders, experts and products in Western Canada.

"CHFA West" started in Vancouver 42 years ago and now includes more than 450 leading industry exhibitors, including more than 100 B.C. based manufacturers, retailers and distributors," said CHFA President, Helen Sherrard. "This year's event showcases an amazing variety of new products and is a clear indication of how the industry is responding to Canadian consumers. The Canadian appetite for natural health and organic products is skyrocketing and B.C. businesses are leading the way."

CHFA West features 65,000 square feet of innovative products plus a wide range of educational seminars which provide a great opportunity for people in the industry to network, learn and grow their business.

Product categories on display include: aromatherapy, beverages, cleaning products, cosmetics, food, herbal products, homeopathic products, minerals, organic food, organic products, personal care products, supplements, specialty foods, sports nutrition products, traditional medicines and vitamins.

"Whether you are looking for the latest products, wanting to compare brands, or simply want to connect with others in the industry, CHFA West provides a perfect forum," said Sherrard.

A recent Ipsos Reid survey showed that 73 per cent of Canadians are regular consumers of natural health products. The survey also revealed that a majority of Canadians (80 per cent) believe natural health products to be "important or somewhat important" to their families and the majority of Canadians (71 per cent) and natural health product users (79 per cent) believe these products are safe.

People interested in healthy living can learn more about CHFA West and natural health and organic products at chfa.ca

The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) is Canada's largest national trade association dedicated to the natural health and organic products industries. Representing manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and importers of natural health products, the Canadian Health Food Association has 1,000 members who contribute three billion dollars to the Canadian economy annually. For more information on CHFA and the natural health products industry visit chfa.ca

For further information:

Abigail Guevara
Canadian Health Food Association
Bilingual Communications Specialist
416.497.6939 | 1.800.661.4510 Ext. 234
[e-mail]