Expo West Tops 52,000

ANAHEIM, Calif.—More than 52,000 natural products industry members attended Natural Products Expo West, held March 13 to 16 here, according to show producer New Hope Natural Media, a division of Penton Media. New Hope added the attendance was up 11 percent over the 2007 event and a record 3,392 exhibits filling the expo hall. The keynote speaker, author Michael Pollan, reminded attendees that it’s not just what’s in the food, but enjoying the food is a key part of the equation, and providing a great shopping experience adds to the pleasure of food.

Among the trends seen on the show floor were a greater range of gluten-free and whole grain products; certified Fair Trade items; omega-3 essential fatty acids in supplements and foods; natural and organic personal care; more “superfruit” ingredients and flavored products; and products formulated and sized specifically for children. Further, the “green” movement was evident in new organic fiber fashions and bedding, and eco-friendly housewares and cleaning products.