SAN CLEMENTE, Calif.–The Natural Products Association (NPA) bestowed the President’s Award to Jeffrey Bland, Ph.D., FACN, FACB, chief science officer for Metagenics Inc., for his contributions to the natural products industry. The Award was presented at the NPA national annual convention in June.
The NPA selection committee cited Bland’s “extensive service to the natural products industry and commitment to natural medical care and education,” and praised his “passion in his professional life that sets a standard of behavior for the treatment of others within the industry.”
Bland is he founder of the Institute for Functional Medicine and co-founder of Bastyr University, and is internationally respected for his ground-breaking work in nutritional genomics, nutritional biochemistry and applied clinical nutrition. He has written nine books on nutrition for healthcare professionals and the general public and is the principal author of more than 100 peer-reviewed research articles.
“Every year, selecting our award winners is tough because there are so many excellent candidates to choose from,” said NPA president Pat Sardell. “But selecting Dr. Bland for our President’s Award was an easy choice. He has dedicated so much of his career and energies to a pursuit that has benefited both the public and our industry. NPA was delighted to recognize Dr. Bland with its award.”
Commented Bland: “I am very honored to have received this award. But more importantly, I believe that it signifies the achievements of our scientific team and the presence that Metagenics has had on our industry.”
Founded in 1936, the NPA is the nation’s largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to the natural products industry. It represents more than 10,000 retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors of natural products, including foods, dietary supplements and health/beauty aids.
Metagenics Inc. is a global life sciences company that produces medical foods, nutraceuticals and lifestyle medicine programs.