Together We Stand: Annual Botanical Science Conference Eyes DSHEA, Promotes Collaboration

Report Summary

The International Conference on the Science of Botanicals (ICSB), hosted by the National Center for Natural Products Research, has traditionally been a forum for university scientists and researchers, but this year's event also included regulatory and industry speakers, drawing first-time industry attendees. Under the backdrop of the 20th anniversary of DSHEA, the conference brought together this mix of experts and insiders to tackle challenges, such as quality and safety, and develop new ideas and relationships.

Editor's Take

This conference on botanicals has long gathered scientists, researchers and regulators from academia and government, in accordance with its origins, mission and funding. However, its recent decision to engage the dietary supplement industry, which deals heavily in botanicals, is a positive move to put the best minds on the most pressing issues: quality, safety, resources and awareness. Bringing together everyone with a stake in botanicals and supplements makes sense, as each stakeholder is a vital part of the success of these products on the consumer level. This brings together not only ideas and expertise, but also resources and opportunities. This conference may prove to be an important annual event for the dietary supplement industry.

Takeaways for Your Business

The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy is the state's only pharmacy school. The NCNPR is the nation's sole university research center devoted to improving human health and agricultural productivity through the discovery, development and commercialization of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals derived from plants, marine organisms and other natural products. The FDA Center of Excellence was established in 2001 under a cooperative agreement between FDA/CFSAN and NCNPR. Based on this agreement, ICSB is cosponsored by FDA.