NSF International recognized the Good Manufacturing Practices of two companies during Natural Products Expo East. On Sept. 6, Desler, Ohio-based Graminex LLC and Westbury, N.Y.-based Tishcon Corp. received GMP certification from the nonprofit organization.

Graminex produces flower pollen extracts, both for sale to other manufacturers and for use in its own line of products. The company has registered its entire production facility and will seek certification for its complete product line, said Chief Operating Officer Edward P. Wyszumiala.

Tishcon's certification is for its Q-Gel supplements line. Arun Chopra, director of Tishcon's Salisbury, Md., manufacturing plant, said the certification would help the company's ability to gain recognition.

Kathleen Pompliano, manager of NSF's dietary supplements and functional foods program, said, "NSF is a voluntary certification program," and noted that to receive certification, products must be reviewed for consistency and safety, must not contain contaminants, and ingredients must be present in the quantities listed on the label. Products must also adhere to all requirements of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.

Natural Foods Merchandiser volume XXIV/number 10/p. 8