NOW. You’ve likely seen the brand on shelves, perhaps while browsing supplements, essential oils, or even natural foods. NOW, a name synonymous with quality and affordability in the health and wellness sphere, boasts a vast catalog of products. But who is the driving force behind this popular brand? Who are the individuals and the organization responsible for bringing NOW products to your home? Let’s delve into the fascinating story of NOW, exploring its origins, its values, and the people who make it all happen.
The Foundation of NOW: A Family’s Vision
The story of NOW Foods begins with Elwood Richard, a physical chemist who held a firm belief in the power of natural health. In 1948, Elwood and his brothers Paul and Frank Richard founded a small chain of health food stores called Health House. This was a pioneering venture, predating the mainstream awareness of natural health products that we see today. Elwood’s vision extended beyond simply selling health foods; he wanted to make these products accessible to everyone, regardless of their income.
Elwood recognized a significant gap in the market. High-quality supplements and natural foods were often priced prohibitively, making them unavailable to a large segment of the population. He believed that everyone deserved access to products that could support their well-being. This conviction became the cornerstone of the NOW brand.
In 1968, Elwood Richard took a bold step and established NOW Foods. This was a strategic move to manufacture and distribute natural foods and supplements, allowing him to control the quality and, most importantly, the price. By vertically integrating the process, NOW could offer premium products at affordable prices, staying true to Elwood’s original vision.
Elwood Richard passed away in 2017, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. His unwavering commitment to quality, affordability, and consumer education continues to guide NOW Foods today.
NOW Foods: More Than Just a Brand, It’s a Family
While Elwood Richard laid the foundation, NOW Foods is far from a one-person operation. It is a family-owned and operated company, and that familial spirit permeates the entire organization. Elwood’s family remains actively involved in the leadership and management of NOW Foods, ensuring that the company’s core values are upheld.
The Richard family’s continued involvement is crucial. It provides a sense of continuity and stability, ensuring that NOW remains true to its founding principles. This family influence also fosters a strong sense of community within the company, creating a positive and supportive work environment.
The Leadership Team: Guiding NOW into the Future
The leadership team at NOW Foods is comprised of experienced professionals who are passionate about natural health and wellness. They work diligently to ensure that NOW continues to innovate and provide high-quality products to consumers worldwide. The leadership team is committed to scientific research, quality control, and sustainable practices. They understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Employees: The Heart and Soul of NOW
Beyond the leadership team, the employees of NOW Foods are the true heart and soul of the company. From the scientists in the laboratories to the production staff in the manufacturing facilities, every individual plays a crucial role in bringing NOW products to life.
NOW Foods is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. They offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development. This investment in their employees translates into a dedicated and motivated workforce, which ultimately benefits consumers.
NOW’s Commitment to Quality and Transparency
NOW Foods has built a reputation for quality and transparency. This commitment is evident in every aspect of their operations, from the sourcing of raw materials to the rigorous testing procedures they employ.
Sourcing the Finest Ingredients
NOW Foods is meticulous about sourcing the ingredients for their products. They work with trusted suppliers around the world to obtain the highest quality raw materials. They conduct thorough audits of their suppliers to ensure that they meet NOW’s stringent standards for quality and sustainability.
NOW also prioritizes organic and non-GMO ingredients whenever possible. They understand that consumers are increasingly concerned about the origin and purity of their food and supplements. By offering a wide range of organic and non-GMO products, NOW caters to these growing demands.
Rigorous Testing and Quality Control
NOW Foods employs a comprehensive testing and quality control program. They test their raw materials and finished products for identity, purity, potency, and safety. They utilize state-of-the-art laboratories and employ advanced analytical techniques.
NOW’s quality control measures go above and beyond industry standards. They are committed to providing consumers with products that are safe, effective, and accurately labeled. This dedication to quality has earned NOW numerous certifications and accolades.
Independent Certifications: A Mark of Trust
NOW Foods has obtained numerous independent certifications from reputable organizations. These certifications provide consumers with an added layer of assurance about the quality and safety of NOW products. Some of the certifications that NOW has earned include:
- Non-GMO Project Verified: This certification ensures that NOW products are free from genetically modified organisms.
- NSF International Certified: This certification demonstrates that NOW products have been independently tested and meet rigorous standards for quality and safety.
- Informed-Sport Certified: This certification verifies that NOW sports nutrition products are free from banned substances, making them safe for athletes to use.
- Certified Organic by Quality Assurance International (QAI): This certification verifies that NOW’s organic products meet the strict standards set by the USDA National Organic Program.
These certifications are a testament to NOW’s commitment to quality and transparency. They provide consumers with confidence in the products they are purchasing.
Expanding Horizons: NOW’s Diverse Product Line
NOW Foods offers a vast and diverse product line, catering to a wide range of health and wellness needs. From supplements and essential oils to natural foods and sports nutrition products, NOW has something for everyone.
Supplements: Addressing a Variety of Needs
NOW offers a comprehensive range of dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, and specialty formulas. Their supplement line is designed to support various aspects of health, such as immune function, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and joint health.
NOW’s supplements are manufactured using high-quality ingredients and are rigorously tested for purity and potency. They offer a variety of formats, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids, to suit individual preferences.
Essential Oils: Harnessing the Power of Nature
NOW Solutions offers a wide selection of essential oils, sourced from around the world. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
NOW’s essential oils are 100% pure and natural, and they are rigorously tested to ensure their quality and purity. They offer a variety of essential oils, including single oils, blends, and pre-diluted oils. These oils can be used for aromatherapy, massage, and topical application.
Natural Foods: Nourishing the Body from Within
NOW Real Food offers a variety of natural and organic foods, including nuts, seeds, grains, flours, and sweeteners. Their food products are sourced from trusted suppliers and are processed with minimal processing to retain their nutritional value.
NOW’s food products are a great way to nourish your body from the inside out. They offer a variety of options for those looking to eat a healthy and balanced diet.
Sports Nutrition: Fueling Performance
NOW Sports offers a range of sports nutrition products designed to support athletic performance and recovery. Their sports nutrition line includes protein powders, amino acids, pre-workout supplements, and post-workout recovery formulas.
NOW’s sports nutrition products are formulated with high-quality ingredients and are rigorously tested to ensure their safety and effectiveness. They are designed to help athletes of all levels achieve their fitness goals.
NOW’s Mission: Empowering Healthier Lives
At its core, NOW Foods is driven by a mission to empower people to lead healthier lives. This mission is reflected in their commitment to quality, affordability, and consumer education.
Affordable Quality: Making Health Accessible
NOW Foods believes that everyone deserves access to high-quality natural health products, regardless of their income. They are committed to offering premium products at affordable prices, making health and wellness accessible to a wider audience.
This affordability is a key differentiator for NOW. They have demonstrated that it is possible to offer high-quality products without breaking the bank.
Consumer Education: Empowering Informed Choices
NOW Foods is committed to educating consumers about natural health and wellness. They provide a wealth of information on their website, including articles, recipes, and product guides.
They also participate in industry events and partner with healthcare professionals to share their knowledge and expertise. By empowering consumers with information, NOW helps them make informed choices about their health.
In conclusion, the NOW brand is a product of decades of dedication from the Richard family and their team at NOW Foods. Built on a foundation of quality, affordability, and a genuine passion for natural health, NOW continues to be a leading provider of supplements, essential oils, and natural foods. Their commitment to transparency and independent certifications provides consumers with the confidence they need to make informed choices for their well-being. NOW is more than just a brand; it’s a family-driven mission to empower healthier lives.
Who actually owns NOW Foods?
NOW Foods is a privately-held, family-owned company. It was founded in 1968 by Elwood Richard and remains under the ownership and leadership of the Richard family to this day. This independent ownership allows NOW Foods to prioritize quality, affordability, and consumer well-being over the short-term demands often placed on publicly traded companies.
The Richard family’s commitment to the company’s founding principles ensures a consistent focus on providing high-quality natural products and supplements. This long-term vision contributes to NOW Foods’ reputation for integrity and its dedication to the natural products industry, fostering trust among consumers who value transparency and ethical business practices.
Where are NOW Foods products manufactured?
NOW Foods products are primarily manufactured in their own facilities located in the United States. They operate several state-of-the-art manufacturing plants, including facilities in Bloomingdale, Illinois, and Sparks, Nevada. These facilities adhere to strict quality control standards and are designed to ensure the purity and potency of their products.
By maintaining control over their manufacturing processes, NOW Foods can implement rigorous testing and quality assurance protocols. This vertical integration allows them to monitor every stage of production, from raw material sourcing to finished product, guaranteeing compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and maintaining the high standards that consumers expect.
What kind of quality control processes does NOW Foods employ?
NOW Foods employs a comprehensive quality control system that encompasses every stage of production. This includes rigorous testing of raw materials to ensure identity, purity, and potency. They also utilize advanced analytical techniques to detect contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microorganisms.
Beyond raw material testing, NOW Foods implements in-process quality control checks during manufacturing to monitor critical parameters and ensure product consistency. Finished products undergo further testing before release to confirm they meet stringent quality standards. This multi-layered approach guarantees the integrity and efficacy of their supplements and natural products.
Is NOW Foods certified by any third-party organizations?
Yes, NOW Foods holds numerous certifications from reputable third-party organizations. These certifications demonstrate their commitment to quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. Some key certifications include NPA GMP certification, Informed-Sport certification for sports supplements, and Non-GMO Project Verified status for many of their products.
These independent certifications provide consumers with assurance that NOW Foods products meet specific standards and undergo regular audits. This external validation adds another layer of trust and transparency, reinforcing the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality products that consumers can rely on.
What is NOW Foods’ stance on sustainable sourcing?
NOW Foods is committed to sustainable sourcing practices to minimize their environmental impact and support ethical labor standards. They actively seek out suppliers who share their values and prioritize environmentally responsible farming methods, such as organic agriculture and fair trade practices.
The company recognizes the importance of protecting natural resources and ensuring the long-term availability of key ingredients. NOW Foods works closely with their suppliers to promote sustainable harvesting techniques, reduce waste, and support local communities. This dedication to sustainability is an integral part of their corporate philosophy.
Does NOW Foods offer vegan or vegetarian products?
Yes, NOW Foods offers a wide range of vegan and vegetarian products to cater to diverse dietary preferences. They clearly label their products with appropriate certifications or symbols to indicate whether they are suitable for vegans or vegetarians. This allows consumers to easily identify products that align with their dietary needs.
The company is committed to providing plant-based options and continuously expands its selection of vegan and vegetarian supplements, foods, and personal care items. NOW Foods understands the growing demand for plant-based products and strives to meet the needs of this expanding consumer base with high-quality and ethically sourced ingredients.
How does NOW Foods keep its prices competitive?
NOW Foods maintains competitive pricing through a combination of factors, including efficient manufacturing processes, vertical integration, and a focus on volume sales. By controlling many aspects of the production chain, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing and distribution, they can reduce costs and pass those savings on to consumers.
The company also avoids expensive marketing campaigns and celebrity endorsements, opting instead to rely on word-of-mouth and customer loyalty. NOW Foods believes in providing high-quality products at affordable prices, making natural health and wellness accessible to a wider range of individuals. This commitment to value is a key differentiator in the competitive supplements market.