National Enzyme: Producing The Necessary Enzymes
National Enzyme Company (NEC), Forsyth, MO, was founded in 1932 when Dr. Edward Howell, often referred to as the “father of enzyme nutrition,” theorized that cooking and processing foods destroyed the enzyme content of the food necessary for natural digestion. Enzymes are more necessary and important in the proper functioning of digestion than the general public might think, according to marketing manager Gary Bennett. “No one realizes that bloating and gas are not normal bodily functions and the fact that the body experiences them is a reflection of a poorly functioning digestive system and the lack of the necessary enzymes to break down food,” he explained. Chris Haynes, national sales manager for NEC said in addition, “A recent study shows approximately 40% of the public does not realize they have digestive problems. People have accepted the idea that eating and experiencing digestive discomfort are the norm. This does not have to be the case.” Since processed food are here to stay, NEC has concentrated its focus on enzymes as they relate to digestion.
NEC formulates synergistic blends of broad spectrum enzymes, herbs and other ingredients to deliver specified nutritional support. Until recently enzymes were not much a part of the nutritional supplement spotlight, but they have begun receiving increased attention. Mr. Bennett commented, “Enzymes are becoming very popular these days. Even though they have been around since the beginning of time, they are now being recognized as important because the knowledge level is rising due to new product introductions and educational efforts.”
NEC also specializes in exclusive and proprietary enzyme blends—blending enzymes with science under the “n•zimes” family of blends. Included are two new products, “CereCalase” and “e•d•s Enzyme Delivery System.” CereCalase is a unique macerating enzyme blend, while e•d•s Enzyme Delivery System is a formulating technique that enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and phytochemicals in a nutritional supplement. According to Mr. Bennett, "Our enzymes in e•d•s will improve the absorption and work to release many vitamins, minerals, herbs and phytonutrients in a nutritional supplement."
In terms of manufacturing capabilities, the company produces bulk powders and encapsulated materials as well as handles precision blending, bottling, labeling and packaging. And although nutritional enzyme products are regulated as dietary supplements, NEC’s manufacturing standards far exceed government regulations. The company approaches standards applied to over-the-counter (OTC) products and follows all current Good Manufacturing Procedures (cGMP).
In June of this year NEC was approved for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Merit Voluntary Protection Program (VPP). This award is given to companies with outstanding health and safety programs and that have demonstrated the ability to improve and provide safe working conditions for their employees. Jerry Holvick, manfacturing manager, said, “It is an honor to be recognized by OSHA as being a leader in the industry when it comes to the health and safety of our employees.”
In other recent developments, the company launched a website, www.enzymeuniversity.com. The goal of the website is to educate the consumer about enzymes as they apply to dietary supplements and why enzymes are an important part of nutrition. The site is part of NEC’s value-added service and is geared toward both the educated and uneducated consumer, addressing general and technical information. The website also contains current articles and excerpts from books and a list of frequently asked questions regarding enzymes. Mr Bennett commented, “The website, which was launched in March of this year, was created because of the lack of an industry focus in educating the consumer about enzymes as they relate to dietary supplements. The website is not intended for the sale of items and does not have a marketing spin to it.”
Looking into the future, Mr. Bennett predicted that NEC might look to expand its encapsulating, blending and packaging facility because of growth in the business. For now, he said, NEC is doing what it can to increase the public’s knowledge level and become the world leader in innovative health products by establishing supplemental enzymes as essential for a healthy life.
—R.M.
National Enzyme Company
15366 U.S. Highway 160
Forsyth, MO 65653
Phone: 800-825-8545; 417-546-4796
Fax: 417-546-6433
E-mail: mail@nzimes.com
Website:www.nationalenzymecompany.com
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