In the episode “New Year Update on Sino-US Trade,” Wilson Lau and Jeff Crowther delve into the Sino-US trade as they see it for 2025, while recapping 2024. They explore their top takeaways for 2024 and what they think 2025 holds.
The conversation covers changes in China supplement market, the opportunities there and how Sino-US trade could be impacted.
Conversation Overview:
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:06 What are your (Jeff's) top takeaways from 2024?
02:01 Attitudinal change in health among Chinese population and the opportunity that it presents
06:26 What are your top things to keep an eye on for 2025?
11:25 The importance of trade associations, such as Health Product Association-China to understand the issues in the local market and how they can assist with entry into China
13:15 Cross-Border Commerce
21:58 Odds of Increased Tariffs on Chinese Goods
24:22 Strategies to address increased Tariffs
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In the episode “The Rise of Personalized Herbal Solutions: Meeting Consumer Demand,” Wilson Lau and Graham Rigby delve into the future of customized health products. They explore how traditional herbal practices are enhanced by modern technologies like AI and 3D printing, offering tailored health solutions that meet individual needs. The discussion highlights how these technologies not only improve the precision of herbal dosing but also innovate the way these solutions are delivered to consumers.
The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in integrating technology with traditional wisdom to create effective and personalized herbal products. Wilson and Graham stress the importance of collaboration between the herbal and tech industries to advance these personalized solutions. They also discuss the balance needed between machine precision and human intuition in crafting health remedies that are truly beneficial for individual health journeys.
Conversation Overview:
00:00 Introduction and Background
00:50 Innovative and Groundbreaking Work at Care Of
03:55 The Historical Context of Personalization in the Herbal Wellness Industry
10:39 The Role of Technology and Big Data in Personalization
18:49 Personalized Delivery Systems for Herbal Products
39:15 The Role of Ritual and Sensory Aspects in Herbal Medicine
40:13 The Potential of Precision Dosing and 3D Printing in Drug Delivery
41:46 The Importance of Personalization in Health Journeys
48:03 Balancing Technology and Human Intuition in Personalized Medicine
55:12 The Limitations of Clinical Trials in Evaluating Traditional Healing Systems
01:02:38 Navigating the Regulatory Hurdles in Personalized Herbal Solutions
01:09:01 Collaboration for Scaling Personalized Herbal Solutions
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In the podcast episode “From Concept to Consumer: The Lifecycle of Herbal Product Development,” Wilson Lau interviews Lisa Thomas, Chief Commercialization Officer at Nuherbs, to explore the intricacies of herbal product development. Lisa, drawing on her background as a former professional soccer player and her deep understanding of nutrition, shares insights into the journey from initial concept to market-ready product. The episode covers key phases such as idea generation, product formulation, understanding the target customer, and the rigorous process of product formulation.
The discussion extends to the critical elements of scalability and supply chain management, particularly for small and medium manufacturers dealing with challenges like minimum order quantities, cost, and lead time. Wilson and Lisa explore the nuances of packaging design tailored to meet the expectations of target consumers and discuss the strategies that have led to success stories in scaling herbal products and developing custom ingredients.
They also highlight untapped markets such as sports nutrition, women’s health, and functional foods and beverages, underscoring the potential for growth in these areas. The episode concludes with an insightful discussion on regulations and policies shaping the herbal market, including the implications of the Amazon verification program and the importance of supply chain transparency.
To reach out to Lisa regarding the Bespoke Extracts program, please email bespokeextracts@nuherbs.com
How we make Bespoke Extracts
https://nuherbs.com/resources/how-we-make-bespoke-extracts
Understanding Amazon’s New Dietary Supplement Policy: What you Need to Know
How to Comply with Amazon's Updated Dietary Supplement Policy
https://nuherbs.com/resources/how-to-comply-with-amazon-s-updated-dietary-supplement-policy
Conversation Overview
00:00 Introduction and Lisa's Journey into the Health and Nutrition Industry
04:00 Navigating the Initial Phase of Idea Generation and Conceptualization
09:16 Formulating Products: Considerations and Challenges
18:18 The Importance of Market Research and Intuition
25:25 Tailoring the Approach to Product Formulation
29:30 Ensuring Quality and Efficacy in Ingredient Sourcing
32:48 The Crucial Role of Regulatory Compliance
35:46 Building Partnerships with a Culture of Care and Passion
38:09 New Herbs' Sourcing Process: Ensuring Purity and Compliance
45:36 Success Stories: Scaling Products
50:50 The Importance of Effective Packaging Design
57:32 Developing Custom Ingredients
01:05:35 Untapped Markets in the Herbal Product Industry
01:10:07 Regulations and Policies Shaping the Market
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In the premiere episode of Season 3, titled “The Green Path: Journey of a Herb and the Impact of Ethical Sourcing,” Wilson Lau and Erin Smith explore the vital role of ethical sourcing in the herbal industry. This discussion covers the definitions and importance of ethical harvesting and sourcing, detailing their impact on environmental sustainability and community welfare. They also link these practices to the quality and efficacy of herbal products.
Wilson and Erin emphasize the power of storytelling and transparency in communicating the origins and benefits of ethically sourced herbs to consumers. They advocate for collaboration and the establishment of standardized measurements within the industry to ensure accountability and foster positive change. The conversation sheds light on how ethical sourcing not only supports the economic and social well-being of local communities but also preserves traditional knowledge and cultural heritage associated with medicinal plants.
The episode also addresses the evolving consumer expectations, with a growing demand for products that are responsibly sourced and produced sustainably. Through their insightful dialogue, Wilson and Erin illustrate how ethical practices in the herbal sector can lead to better products and a healthier planet.
Conversation Overview
00:00 Introduction and Setup
01:01 Journey in the World of Sustainability
09:46 The Three-Legged Stool of Ethical Sourcing
21:39 Communicating Ethical Sourcing to Consumers
28:49 The Future of Ethical Sourcing in the Herbal Industry
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode of our podcast, Wilson Lau is joined by Kim Dietz and Johanna Phillips from Strengthening Organic Systems LLC to explore the latest USDA regulations aimed at enhancing organic enforcement.
They delve into the critical updates, including broader certification requirements across the organic supply chain, the standardization of import documentation, and the introduction of mandatory fraud prevention strategies.
They emphasize the importance of supply chain integrity, traceability, and the mandatory reporting of fraud, particularly concerning exports to Canada.
Conversation Overview
00:00 Introduction to Strengthening Organic Systems
01:05 Top Three Changes in USDA Strengthening Organic Enforcement Regulations
10:11 Exemptions and Certification Requirements for Different Entities
12:01 Non-Retail Packaging and Labeling Requirements
14:08 Import Certificates and Considerations for Businesses
23:01 Exporting Organic Products and Special Paperwork
25:01 Exporting Organic Products to Canada and Europe
30:39 Conclusion and Contact Information
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Wilson Lau delivers an update on the herbal industry, touching on significant trends like the rise of functional beverages and mushrooms, and the critical focus on sustainability.
He unpacks the challenges posed by climate change, geopolitical events, and new organic regulations impacting the supply chain.
Wilson underscores the importance of staying updated and proactive in the industry, and he commits to providing ongoing insights on these evolving topics.
Conversation Overview
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:45 Top Trends from Expo West
04:12 Industry Trend: Sustainability
06:38 Herbal Supply Chain Challenges
08:00 Geopolitical Impact on Supply Chain
09:55 New Regulations for Organic Herbs
11:23 Conclusion and Future Updates
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Gummies, tinctures, extracts…alternative delivery methods are want your customers want.
But putting an effective therapeutic dose into such a small format is a challenge for most brands and manufacturers.
In this video, Wilson and Suzanne discuss how to solve for the technical aspects of moving into new delivery systems.
If you company is exploring how to move into other delivery formats, and you are faced with challenge of getting all your key ingredients that new format, you want to watch this:
Conversation Overview
00:16: How hard is it to get a therapeutic does into a supplement?
1:26: Are consumers getting the Doses they need in supplements?
2:38: How do brands and manufacturers get to the right dose?
3:14: Material, taste, and other technical formation considerations
5:58: From bars to powders, all delivery systems have challenges. It’s important to understand them in all aspects of manufacturing.
7:50: You need find manufacturing partners that have technical expertise, but also an understanding of the phyto-components of the herbs and botanicals.
12:15: The next frontier of supplements is large and small animals.
Learn more about our bespoke extracts program: https://go.nuherbs.com/bespoke-extracts-ssw23
Explore our sleep strips: https://nutraditions.com
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Alexis Durham, Director of Education at AHPA, talks with Wilson Lau on her unique perspective on #sustainability. They cover:
Learn More About the Sustainability Committee: https://www.ahpa.org/committees
You can also join over 11,254 herbal industry professionals, companies, and practitioners who subscribe to our monthly newsletters. You can select the topics you are interested in. https://go.nuherbs.com/emailpreferences
You can also subscribe to our podcast, Herbal Explorations, for the latest insights and interviews with the world’s leading experts in herbs and botanicals.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Wilson talks with Erin Smith, an Ethnobotanist with Bayan Botanicals. They discuss:
Connect With Nuherbs
If you have questions on this report, reach out to me via Linkedin.
You can also join over 10,932 herbal industry professionals, companies, and practitioners who subscribe to our monthly newsletters. You can select the topics you are interested in. https://go.nuherbs.com/emailpreferences
You can also subscribe to our podcast, Herbal Explorations, for the latest insights and interviews with the world’s leading experts in herbs and botanicals.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
As we cross the halfway point of the year, this is my update From The Fields as I fly to visit our partners. Always, I address the hot button issues and give my best advice for managing them as you look forward.
The price of almost all Chinese herbs are up this year due to a variety of factors. On the low end, prices are up 10-15% and at the other extreme, prices are up 300-400%.
I suggest reaching out to your herbal partners to better understand how this will impact your company going forward. This is especially important if you have contract pricing expiring as previously made commitments have been fulfilled and you haven’t experienced the price increases to date.
The four most important factors in the increase of prices are:
There is good news that some of the increases are offset by a stronger dollar and reduction of sea or air freight costs. We won’t discuss inflation because I am sure that you feel it daily and read all about it everywhere, just know that most of the non-herbal inputs have increased in price as well. Listen to the episode to learn more.
Connect With Nuherbs
If you have questions on this report, reach out to me via Linkedin.
You can also join over 10,712 herbal industry professionals, companies, and practitioners who subscribe to our monthly newsletters. You can select the topics you are interested in. https://go.nuherbs.com/emailpreferences
You can also subscribe to our podcast, Herbal Explorations, for the latest insights and interviews with the world’s leading experts in herbs and botanicals.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Wilson Lau speaks with Ann Armbrecht, Director at Sustainable Herbs Program. In this episode, Wilson and Ann discuss:
Sustainable Herbs Toolkit: https://sustainableherbsprogram.org/webinar/toolkit-webinar/
Want to listen to episodes? Subscribe to our podcast on
iHeart Radio:
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-herbal-explorations-the-bu-98857263/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/62PaOPlfMbWRmatQJNcHi2?si=fb6304fff7d5423f
Amazon: https://a.co/d/dv4agKG
You can also join over 10,367 herbal industry professionals, companies, and practitioners who subscribe to our monthly newsletters: https://go.nuherbs.com/emailpreferences
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode of Herbal Explorations, Wilson Lau speaks to Bill Chioffi, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at NAMMEX, a company that specializes in medicinal mushroom extracts. In this episode, Wilson and Bill discuss all things sustainability:
0:47: There are many different definitions of sustainability, it varies by sector.
1:07: Sustainability should mean that “We’re giving back more than we’re taking out of any one system.” Sustainability is holistic and it means taking care of the people, animals, plants, and everyone involved in the company’s supply chain.
2:11: One thing that all companies can implement today that will help bring about a better tomorrow is take a more long-term approach to how they build business systems.
2:42: In terms of plant sustainability, pick any one plant in your supply chain and know it from seed to shelf. It builds a roadmap for all the ingredients in a company’s supply chain.
3:13: Supply chain logistics are complex, but if a company understands seed to shelf, it can find places for innovation and opportunity.
4:08: Companies need to dedicate resources towards sustainability within their organizations that aren’t just part of marketing messages.
4:50: Take a look your packaging and product materials, see if there’s a way to move from single use to something that is more eco-conscious.
6:06: In order to successfully advocate for sustainability within your company, be with the materials in their places of origin so you understand all aspects of manufacturing.
7:00: Go the grower, go to the production house. Even if it’s overseas, visit your partners so that you have first hand knowledge of your products’ places of origin.
7:28: What you learn through research and paperwork is quite different than what you learn firsthand.
8:10: And don’t regret to apply the concept of sustainability to how you travel. Mindfully create practices and processes.
Want to listen to episodes? Subscribe to our podcast on iHeart Radio | iTunes | Spotify | Audible | Amazon.
You can also join over 10,354 herbal industry professionals, companies, and practitioners who subscribe to our monthly newsletters: https://go.nuherbs.com/emailpreferences
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Beth Lambert, CEO of Herbalist & Alchemist, joins us to share her journey of discovering the B Corp movement and how it resonated with their commitment to producing quality herbal supplements that prioritize both people and the environment.
The conversation delves into the challenges and benefits of the certification process, including the importance of quantifying sustainability efforts and the continuous drive for improvement.
Beth's passion for sustainability and the company's dedication to being a force for positive change shine through as they continue to explore their path to transformative sustainability.
1:03: The first company to be certified with B Corp
4:00: Overview of B Corp and the certification process
6:53: Changes in B Corp certifications
12:08: Governance Challenges for smaller companies
13:31: Benefits for becoming B Corp certified
15:57: Examples of Zero Waste Standards at Herbalist & Alchemist
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Beth Lambert, CEO of Herbalist and Alchemist, shares their experience and top learnings from the recent move of their business, highlighting their commitment to sustainability throughout the process.
She discusses how they recycled moving materials and repurposed them into park benches, showcasing their everyday practices aligned with their environmental values. Beth emphasizes the importance of core values and goals beyond B Corp certification and how it helps set objectives but should only drive part of the sustainability journey.
Wilson and Beth also touch upon the significance of supporting the next generation in farming and exploring new sustainability initiatives at Herbalist and Alchemist. The conversation concludes with recognizing young farmers' challenges and the need to empower and support them in the industry.
1:26: Herbalist & Alchemists facility move with green intentions
5:07: Being driven for the right reasons, not just for certification
8:54: The power of partnerships and B Corp certification
11:39: Back to basics with climate, soil health, and the power of good stewardship
15:23: Empowering the next generation of farmers to sustain the agriculture business
17:06: Inflation and rising costs of land make challenges for young farmers
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Wilson and Julien delve into the crucial topic of emissions and sustainability in the supply chain in this episode. They explore the challenges of sharing usable data across the entire product supply chain, emphasizing the need for standardization and accounting practices. They mention the importance of using calibrated calculators specific to the industry and having engagement from different departments to track and analyze data. Tools and resources like Impact IQ, an ESG compliance and intelligence tool, are highlighted for companies to engage in transformational sustainability reporting and compliance. Emphasizing the importance of being good stewards across multiple areas, Julien offers complimentary ESG Readiness Assessments to help companies determine their next steps in sustainability and ESG initiatives.
0:19: Getting Data To Talk to Each Other
0:51: Using Carbon Calculators to Understand Carbon Footprint
3:50: Using the correct carbon calculator for the proper industry
4:46: Measuring your ESG Risk to develop a strategy
5:16: Tools and Resources to use in the Sustainability Journey
10:13: Impact IQ tools work together with BCorp scores
11:52: Thinking 20 years ahead in sustainability and financial planning
13:36: Sustainability services and complimentary ESG Readiness Assessments
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode of Herbal Explorations, Wilson welcomes Julien Gervreau, the Sustainability Director of Sensiba San Filippo. With his extensive experience in accounting, agriculture, and a passion for sustainability, Julien shares valuable insights on integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into businesses.
Julien emphasizes the need for companies to understand the importance of transitioning companies into a more sustainable, zero-carbon emission future. From water scarcity and labor availability, to the impact of extreme weather conditions on crop quality, the conversation underscores the need for adaptive practices and responsible production.
1:20: The critical role accountants play in planning a sustainable future for companies.
4:40: Accounting for the Impact with audited and validated results.
6:22: Increased Scrutiny with Greenwashing and creating a transition plan to cut Carbon Emissions by 2030 and reach NetZero Carbon Emissions by 2050
11:20: Using ROI and a sustainable transition plan to Future-proof our companies and investments
12:59: Water quality, climate change, labor availability, and educating consumers to save agriculture
14:59: The impact of extreme weather events on the wine industry
16:15: Growers need to adopt a plan to maintain yields in our ever-changing climate
17:40: Changes in microclimates may impact the efficacy and profiles of future botanicals like champagne
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Intro/Overview
In this episode, Wilson speaks to David Winston of Herbalist & Alchemist, who is the world’s leading expert on adaptogens. In this episode, they discuss:
0:18: How practitioners can best help their patients understand the use of adaptogens.
1:15: Energetics, primary and secondary uses. Look at each adaptogen, and if it
makes sense for you.
6:11: Treating the person, not the problem.
7:33: Treating people with chronic stress, the rise in interest in adaptogens.
Find the video and full transcript:
If you want to learn more, subscribe to our podcast in iHeart Radio | iTunes | Spotify | Audible | Amazon.
If you’re a practitioner, you can create an account on Nuherbs to shop our herbs and botanicals on our website.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
Intro/Overview
In this episode, Wilson speaks to David Winston of Herbalist & Alchemist, who is the world’s leading expert on adaptogens. In this episode, they discuss:
2:00: The history of adaptogens.
3:00: The historical definition of what an adaptogen is.
4:40: Practitioners still use old definitions of adaptogens.
5:30: We need to define adaptogens correctly. There are only 9.
6:12: Classifying other herbs with adaptogenic properties.
7:46: Using adaptogens in marketing messages.
9:00: The nine plants that are actually adaptogens.
11:12: Herbs and plants that are possible adaptogens, but more research is needed.
12:20: What truly makes a herb or plant an adaptogen.
13:25: How adaptogens also work on a cellular level.
16:55: Secondary sets of adaptogen characteristics.
19:27: TCM, Ayurveda, Unani Tibb, Campo, Jamu, Sidha, Tibetan medicine, physiomedicalism, herbs are used in complex formulas.
20:00: People are complex, and have complex problems, compounding herbs is key.
If you want to learn more, subscribe to our podcast in iHeart Radio | iTunes | Spotify | Audible | Amazon.
If you’re a practitioner, you can create an account on Nuherbs to shop our herbs and botanicals on our website.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Suzanne Shelton, of the Shelton Group, interviews Wilson Lau, on his thoughts about sustainability. In this episode, they discuss:
1:26: Finding the greatest impact: global change or local change
3:42: Shortening the food supply chain.
5:33: The impact of technology on pesticides.
7:57: Eliminating food waste - is it worth the cost?
14:51: Are Synthetic botanicals the future of our food?
16:38: Wildcrafting is becoming a thing of the past.
20:21: The need for a more equitable supply chain.
22:24: Technology can provide a measurable and positive outlook on sustainability.
Find the video and full transcript:
If you want to learn more, subscribe to our podcast in iHeart Radio | iTunes | Spotify | Audible | Amazon.
If you’re a practitioner, you can create an account on Nuherbs to shop our herbs and botanicals on our website.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/
In this episode, Suzanne Shelton of the Shelton Group interviews Wilson Lau on his thoughts about sustainability. In this episode, they discuss:
2:04: Five macro themes that impact the future of our food supply chain.
4:09: How do we avoid global famines?
7:10: Proof that climate change is real.
9:48: Extreme weather impacts the cost of business.
14:09: We have to invest in a way that is profitable and sustainable in the long term.
16:18: The impacts disease can have on productivity.
20:10: Have we seen the last pandemic?
Find the video and full transcript:
If you want to learn more, subscribe to our podcast on iHeart Radio | iTunes | Spotify | Audible | Amazon.
If you’re a practitioner, you can create an account on Nuherbs to shop our herbs and botanicals on our website.
Learn more: https://nuherbs.com/