IPA’s George Paraskevakos and Elisa Fernandez travelled to the Natural Products Expo West in southern California this week to scope out new products and established vendors in the probiotic space. Among the 3500 exhibitors, IPA member companies hosted dynamic pavilions and educational events. George commented from the show:
“Another Expo West is upon us and once again IPA is in attendance. As Elisa and I walk the show floor, probiotics are everywhere. This presents an excellent opportunity for IPA to exchange with attendees and exhibitors where we learn and educate. Many IPA members are in attendance and we are also available to meet up, so please reach out to myself or Elisa and we’d be glad to connect.”
IPA’s George Paraskevakos and Chef Charles Chen at Natural Products Expo West
George stepped up to educate about probiotics–and share some laughs–at an event called Follow Your Gut hosted by Chef Charles Chen, a popular wellness entrepreneur and television host. In the audience were some of the 80,000 attendees expected this year.
The Expo grows every year, stretching out to new halls and event spaces to accommodate the demand. One big reason may be the SoCal weather which uncharacteristically gave a wet start to the 2019 show. By Thursday though, the sun was back, making morning yoga and evening concerts hot items on the schedule. A highlight of the programming was a keynote talk from Erin Brockovich—the real environmental activist, not Julia Roberts who played her in the movie.
Of course, workshops and sessions are only part of the amazing line-up. The exhibit halls are a trend-spotters delight: seemingly limitless creative products and innovations targeted to the wellness consumer.
Probiotics are indeed everywhere, and not only in a cup of yogurt. A sampling: candy, wellness shots, vinegars, kombuchas, kefir desserts and many new skin treatments. Prebiotics too are claiming new real estate.
Remember to reach out to George or Elisa to connect during the show.