Flawed nutrition science reporting hurts the industry…what we can do about it

November 19, 2019

Practically every day there are headlines about a new nutrition study. Some are favorable toward the food item/nutrient/ingredient and some are negative. When the results are positive, we as an industry promote the study as much as possible. When results are negative we try to minimize the damage. What we as an industry, and many times journalists, fail to do is put the science in context.

At the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Conference and Expo a few weeks ago in Philadelphia, that point came up numerous times on the show floor and in sessions, and it was really brought home in a presentation about omega-3 headlines. The session featuring Bill Harris and Toby Amidor highlighted how the same study could result in different consumer media headlines depending on who the expert was and/or the journal’s bias.

The dietary supplement industry has been the subject of much scrutiny and perceived bias, especially when it comes to research. Many journalists do not want to cover studies that were funded by industry, which is a problem, because it’s hard to get practical research completed without funding. When basic science is conducted, there’s often limited application and unfortunately that often results in wasted research. For science to have real application, industry needs to inform it. And the reality is that most of the large health groups like the American Heart Association are industry funded, even if that’s not always directly evident.

This past weekend there was a segment on CBC Marketplace in Canada that covered coconut oil. As this is a category TTC is heavily involved in, we paid close attention to this show. We, on behalf of the Coconut Coalition of the Americas, submitted peer-reviewed scientific evidence along with top tier experts to refute their hatchet job on this ingredient, but all of it was disregarded other than a token posting of our response on the show’s website. The producers showed clear bias by only including experts that supported their hypothesis and sadly, none of their experts have ever even studied coconut oil.

Stories like this happen all the time, and sometimes we can be heard and other times there’s no way around it. But what we can do as an industry is lead by example. When talking about science or advocating for policy change, we need to do the following:

  • Build a broad scientific advisory and input community well ahead of time
  • Talk to professionals with expertise in the area being looked at/studied as well as those who are on the opposing side – at the very least it informs the argument
  • Put the science in perspective—how does this study fit within the overall body of evidence
  • Continue to fund research—if not on as a solo company, consider pooling resources through association partners or industry colleagues
  • Provide high level and objective education opportunities for media and experts on your ingredient/product
  • Support nutrition continuing education programs

Depending on the issue, these will be more or less successful and impactful. If we do these things, though, at least we’re taking the right approach and that’s good for the industry as a whole.

~Traci

Unlock the Power of Transparency: Schedule a Meeting Now

Ready to Illuminate Your Path?
Partner with Trust Transparency Today.

Get inTouch

Lori Diez

Lori Diez combines compassion and excellence to lead organizations to their next level. A small-town Texas childhood taught her the value of hard work and relationships, which she uses to foster teamwork that brings results that have transformed cultures and programs to their highest potential. Her successful career in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sales leadership and event hosting has prepared her to deliver results as the COO of TrustTransparency, where she uses her industry knowledge to ensure that the company’s operations run smoothly as they support nutraceutical companies in their mission to help others. Lori’s passion for charity reflects her belief that individuals working together can change the world, no matter how small their contribution to the effort. This year, she looks forward to continuing over a decade of service at the Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo, where she will be the Chairman of the Livestock Committee.

Conference Handouts

Conference Handouts

CoQ10 Statin Associated Myaglia Meta Study Barry Tan 0618 Case Study

CoQ10 Statin Associated Myaglia Meta Study Barry Tan 0618 (1)

Statin Q10 Effect Case Study

Statin Q10 Effect Case Study

Schedule Consultation with Trust Transparency

Glynnda Steinford

Glynnda Steinford, Trust Transparency Consulting’s Director of Customer Relations, brings over four decades of healthcare experience to her vital role in client engagement and relationship building. Her diverse background spans from administering medical groups to impactful stints in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sales, all underlined by her degree in Healthcare Administration.

At the heart of Glynnda’s work is her talent for nurturing long-term connections, a skill she leverages to enhance client experiences and partnerships within the consultancy. Beyond her professional commitments, she enjoys life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s her love for cats and cooking or her ventures into golf, always prioritizing cherished moments with family and friends. Her personal interests echo the dedication and warmth she extends in her professional network, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Caiti Dowden

Caiti Dowden stands as a crucial pillar at Trust Transparency Consulting, bringing invaluable insight and expertise to her role as Senior Executive Assistant’ since her start in 2018. With an academic background from Sam Houston University and a career shift from education to the nutraceutical sphere in 2010, Caiti has cultivated a sharp acumen for dissecting industry trends and bolstering strategic decision-making.

Her transition from Data Analyst reflects her growth and deep understanding of the business landscape. Caiti’s commitment goes beyond professional excellence; she thrives on balance, drawing from her rich life outside of work to enhance her organizational contributions. Whether it’s family time, volunteering, or rooting for Houston’s sports teams, she believes in embracing experiences to fuel her professional creativity and insight.

In her current role, Caiti’s dedication to dynamic business analysis and operational support proves her to be an irreplaceable asset to our team, embodying the synergy of personal enrichment and professional success.

Pam Hilpert

Pam Hilpert, Chief of Staff at Trust Transparency Consulting, has been instrumental in the firm since its inception, leveraging her 17 years of accounting experience, including a significant tenure in the nutrition sector. Her collaboration with Scott Steinford spans various successful ventures, emphasizing her integral role in the company’s financial and strategic initiatives.

An alumnus of Sam Houston State University, Pam holds degrees in both Business Administration and Accounting, as well as an MBA, adding academic heft to her practical industry insights. Beyond her professional prowess, Pam is passionate about family, enjoys live music, delves into quilting, and volunteers at her church, reflecting her well-rounded life.

Her multifaceted expertise and longstanding dedication make Pam a cornerstone of Trust Transparency Consulting’s operational strength and team unity.

Scott Steinford

Scott Steinford, a trailblazer in strategic leadership, boasts a certified M&A background, having navigated companies from their genesis to industry prominence. His brainchild, Trust Transparency Consulting, born in 2007, stands as a testament to his dedication to ethical business practices and strategic foresight, offering industry stakeholders invaluable guidance.

Beyond founding and steering companies, Scott has enriched the business landscape with his insightful keynotes and prolific written contributions, emphasizing his commitment to elevating industry standards. His executive tenure shines in roles as CEO or President of for-profits like ZMC-USA and Doctor’s Best, extending to significant contributions in non-profit sectors.

Notably, Scott’s influence is a driving force in the CoQ10 market, where his leadership has significantly bolstered the ingredient’s global presence. His roles in various capacities, including as a New Hope Ambassador, keep the community informed, providing in-depth industry reports and insights.

An active advocate within professional associations and an Editorial Advisor for leading industry publications, Scott’s expertise is both recognized and sought after. With academic roots in Pre-Law and a Master’s in Law, his journey transcends textbooks, embodying real-world business acumen and transformative leadership.

Scott Steinford merges visionary entrepreneurship with principled leadership, creating a legacy of innovation, growth, and unwavering commitment to industry excellence.