Natural Products Expo West 2026 Trade Show – a report and observations

March 4,5, and 6 was the big annual event in Anaheim, California, called the Natural Products Expo West Trade Show.  For 45 years, this is the place where natural products companies, retailers, and natural products industry workers and professionals come to learn, network, and see what’s new.  There are events, education, and exhibits with 65,000 plus attendees, 3,000+ exhibitors, 300 speakers, and exhibitors and business people from over 65 countries.

Everything that is related to your favorite natural foods store including health and beauty, dietary supplements, beverages, foods, clothing, home cleaning supplies, personal items, manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, distributors, advertisers and publications is represented in some fashion, at Expo West.  Vendor booths come in all sizes and shapes.  Displays range from flashy to silly to serious to practical.

What is fun and meaningful about it is talking with people, meeting new people, connecting with those I’ve known for years if not decades, and educating people in areas of women’s health that are near and dear to me.

What I was happy to see were some new products for women…examples include vaginal hydration inserts,  vaginal microbiome suppositories, a heating patch for menstrual cramps, the occasional plant item that I have never heard of and some newer fibers to name a few.  There are also some fabulous companies offering terrific natural products and being mindful of bringing forth the science on botanicals and nutraceuticals that can offer women relief of symptoms in specific areas, and long-term prevention strategies for metabolic health and cardiovascular health.

What I was not so happy to see were more products delivered in gummies, excessive and environmentally irresponsible packaging, and big booths/marketing with lightweight products.

As usual, I did my share of tasting free samples of yummy items and I am in receipt of the offerings of free products to take home.  I always bring an extra bag for the freebies.

I thank my friends, my partners/collaborators and my colleagues for yet another terrific time.  I invite you to check it out next year, March 2-5 in Anaheim.  Schedule early, the nearby lodging goes fast.  Whether you are a retailer, a patient of natural medicine, a practitioner, a business person with a company or an idea related to the natural products industry, give yourself a bit of an indulgent experience.  Plus, you can always go and do the Disneyland thing!!!!!