Kanberra of Lancaster, NY, announced that its products are certified by the Australian Tea Tree Industry Association.

Mushroom Wisdom Inc. of East Rutherford, NJ, was granted a U.S. patent on its Amycenone Lion’s Mane extract (featured in Amyloban 3399). It recognizes the “unique method of extraction that ensures efficacious strength and safety while supporting healthy brain function.” Stated Donna Noonan, president of Mushroom Wisdom Inc., “Securing a patent such as this is testament to the profound work of scientists, researchers, and practitioners and we hope serves to engender greater trust among consumers.”

In its Q3 earnings conference call, Sprouts Farmers Market, said it opened 14 new stores, with four in its newest markets: Kansas City and Atlanta.

Vitamin Angels of Santa Barbara, CA, recently received the American College of Nutrition’s Humanitarian award.

Watsonville, CA-based Nordic Naturals is holding a “Buy One Bottle. Help Two Heroes” promotion for Paws for Veterans. This group trains shelter dogs to help veterans. Through December, Nordic will donate part of the proceeds (up to $30,000) from certain products to helping the group build a new training facility.

Gaia Herbs of Brevard, NC, was invited to present at a U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention workshop on “DNA Methods for Quality Control of Botanical Products.” It was organized by several government departments including the USDA, FDA and NIH-ODS.

Independent retailers can win a Hawaiian trip in the Nutrex Hawaii Smoothie Challenge. Independent stores (≤10 locations) can use a Smoothie Menu Card (downloadable at www.nutrex-hawaii-promo.com/details.html) to win prizes like a three-night tour of Kona for two, cash rewards, store appreciation luaus, smoothie kits and more.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, December 2014