Cosmeceutical challenges and successes
In order for cosmeceutical systems to deliver their payload in a functionally viable form, they must overcome numerous chemical and physical challenges while still satisfying general cosmetic requirements. A number of systems are being used and the literature supports the growing successes.

In this conference track Mort Westman, president of Westman Associates, Inc, will focus on the mechanisms by which delivery systems function. He will categorise these systems based on chemical and physical properties, chemical compatibility/stability, ease of loading, and general advantages and disadvantages.

Westman has more than 30 years of experience in the cosmetics and toiletries industry in companies such as Clarinol, Breck and Alberto-Culver. He consults in the natural products industry in areas of research and development, including product formulation, strategic guidance, technology transfer, and the generation of advertising claims and support.

Guy Langer will serve as track chair for the cosmeceutical forums. He has nearly a decade of experience as a cosmetic and personal care specialist and is an authority in cosmeceutical product development, ingredient technology, sourcing, formulation and marketing.

Nutracon prepares industry for GMPs
The US Food & Drug Administra-tion (FDA) is taking the final steps toward publishing good manufacturing practices (GMPs) for dietary supplements with the recent release of its formal proposal. This proposal, which was originally published for public comment in 1997, will enter into a 90-day public comment period, followed by FDA evaluation. 'Final rule' GMPs are expected to be published within the year, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition. To help suppliers and manufacturers understand GMP implications and to prepare for the changes ahead, Nutracon will
host a dedicated seminar. (Please check www.nutraconference.com for details.)

Industry address
In Nutracon's state-of-the-industry address, some of the industry's most respected experts will give an industry overview, highlighting the global economy, new regulations, raw materials sourcing, expanding organics, selling to mainstream grocers, and the impact of biotechnology. The panel, with discussion leader Tim Avila of Systems Bioscience, will offer closing remarks.

China panelists explore TCM's role in cancer treatment
Recent scientific and medical research is confirming active molecules and proving clinical efficacy of some important traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) botanicals, such as: Ganoderma lucidum ( Reishi or Ling Zue), Coriolus versicolor (Yun Zue) and Rhodiola crenulata (Tibatan Rhodiola), which are being used as anticancer drugs, as well as adjunct treatment of cancer patients in China, Japan and other Asian countries.

Chinese panelists Laurence Wong, PhD, and Zhi-Bin Lin, MD, will present scientific case studies on the efficacious mechanism of action in TCM botanicals.

"There is extensive data indicating that TCM is successfully used in concert with traditional Wes-tern medicine, such as chemotherapy," says Loretta Zapp, CEO of Applied Food Sciences.

The panel will address the many issues surrounding TCM, not the least of which is that of safety. For example, the US FDA regulatory processes are designed to focus on a single ingredient and TCM requires that botanicals be addressed in combination.

"This is an opportunity to explore the concepts of TCM and learn more about this important area of medicine," says Zapp.

Friday, March 7, 10:15-11:00 am

CONFERENCE INFO
WHEN: March 6-8, 2003
WHERE: Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim, California
CONTACT: www.nutraconference.com