Grounded in Current Research and Sound Science

Company Overview
Established in 1968, NOW Foods manufactures the industry’s most comprehensive line of natural health products including dietary supplements, sports nutrition, natural foods and personal care items. Many NOW products utilize organic and raw materials, as well as some of the most sought after trademarked ingredients. As a company committed to integrating the most advanced science during each phase of product development, the NOW name has become synonymous with exceptional quality, product innovation, technological savvy, friendly service and reliable support.

Over the past 40 years, NOW has grown to become one of the industry’s most recognized manufacturers of quality dietary supplements and natural foods. By never losing sight of those who use its products, NOW takes great pride in providing value in products and services that empower people to lead healthier lives. The company’s obsession with quality has made NOW a favorite among consumers, and one of the top-selling brands in health food stores. In 2008, NOW received a total of 18 Vity Awards, and was named Manufacturer of the Year by Vitamin Retailer magazine.

NOW’s commitment to product excellence has been at the core of the company since 1968, and it remains firmly grounded in current research and sound science. The company’s philosophy is a simple one: high quality nutrition products should not be considered a luxury available only to the most wealthy. This was initially evidenced when Elwood Richard, NOW Foods’ founder, chairman of the board and former president, in cooperation with his brother Lou Richard, helped start the NPA’s Standards Committee.

NOW provided key funding for the first-ever comprehensive book on genetic engineering, and continues to sponsor research conferences and new research projects that target a broad range of industry-related issues. It has developed peer-reviewed, official AOAC and USP Methods for the testing of glucosamine, and is currently offering similar methods for SAMe, chondroitin, L-carnitine and L-arginine.

NOW’s technical staff and scientific consulting group includes seven PhDs and one MD, with over 100 combined years of industry experience. This expertise is vital in maintaining consistent quality throughout the entire manufacturing process, from product development to packaging and shipping. NOW’s scientists are among the most educated, talented and well-respected in their fields, and are committed to developing better methods of analysis for nutraceuticals. Many of the company’s methods are changing analytical standards on an industry-wide scale.

NOW is continually breaking new ground in microbiological safety standards. Its advanced microbiology laboratory affords the company the opportunity to perform in-house analytical tests, thus offering added control over incoming raw materials, in-process formulas and finished products. Its quality is rooted in its adherence to excellent manufacturing processes. NOW’s manufacturing facility is GMP certified, (it has maintained a top “A” rating since 2000), and has had many products “Organic Certified” by Quality Assurance International. The company supports some of the industry’s most influential health-focused organizations, and remain one of today’s most recognizable health freedom advocates.

NOW’s dedication to environmental and social responsibility continues to set the stage for a greener tomorrow. The company was the first for-profit business in Illinois’ DuPage County to receive the Earth Flag for Business. It recently received the Illinois Governor’s Award for Pollution Prevention, and was further recognized by Clear Air Counts for its ongoing environmental efforts. NOW conducts seasonal, community-based Forest Preserve clean-up days, provides ongoing safety and environmental education to all employees, and maintains one of the most robust recycling programs in Illinois.

NOW believes in the preservation of good health through natural products, education and sound science. Its personal commitment to a natural lifestyle is the underpinning of its commitment to produce quality natural products.

Main Products
• Natural Dietary Supplements
• Natural Sports Nutrition
• Natural Foods
• Personal Care
• Men’s and Women’s Health
• Essential Oils, Aromatherapy
• Stevia

Key Executives
• Al Powers, President
• Jim Emme, Chief Operations Officer
• Don Wilbur, Chief Financial Officer
• Dan Richard, General Sales Manager
• Randy Kjell, Director, Information Technology
• Beth Pecenka, Business Strategy Manager
• Carol Dunning, Director, Human Resources
• Jim Ritcheske, Brand Strategy Manager Marketing
• Scott Daniel, Marketing Communications Manager

Association Memberships
• Natural Products Association
• American Herbal Association
• Association of Official Analytical Chemists
• American Oil Chemist Society
• American Herbal Products Association
• Vitamin Angels, Board Membership
• National Health Research
• Citizens for Health
• Herb Research Foundation