NOW and Then

CHFA
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Welcome to NOW & Then by the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) — Canada’s largest trade association for the natural, organic and wellness industry. Hosted by CHFA’s VP of Marketing & Communications, Lynsey Walker, and Director of Regulatory Affairs, Ashley Cornell, this podcast explores the issues shaping our industry — from regulatory developments and research to trends, events, and more. We break down complex topics and highlight how CHFA is supporting and advancing the natural, organic and wellness community in Canada.

  1. Aug 28

    Canada Built a $26 Billion Wellness Industry. What Comes Next?

    Canada’s natural, organic and wellness industry is no longer a niche—it’s a major economic force. CHFA President and CEO Aaron Skelton joins Lynsey to unpack new data revealing the sector’s $26 billion in annual sales, its growing export potential and the policy conditions needed to help Canadian companies compete globally. They also explore what Kirin’s proposed acquisition of Jamieson Wellness signals about the value of Canadian wellness and look ahead to the emerging brands, connections and momentum coming to CHFA NOW Toronto.

  2. Jul 29

    Red Tape, Costco's Beauty Play & What’s Next for Plant-Based Labels

    This month, we’re unpacking the policy shifts, retail strategies and product trends shaping Canada’s natural, organic and wellness industry. CHFA’s Sonia Parmar explains the new Red Tape Reduction campaign, while Jules Gorham explores a Quebec funding opportunity supporting healthier food innovation and reformulation. Plus, we share what stood out at the Summer Fancy Food Show, examine Costco’s carefully curated approach to premium beauty, discuss the potential impact of new U.S. tariffs and explore why CFIA’s plant-based egg guidance could have implications far beyond the category.

  3. Jul 10

    From Microplastics to Sardines: What's Next for Wellness

    Consumer expectations are changing—and the wellness industry is evolving alongside them. In this episode, Lynsey Walker and Ashley Cornell explore what the conversation around packaging and microplastics means for brands, why ultra-processed foods are becoming impossible to ignore, and the consumer trends shaping product innovation—including the surprising rise of sardines. They also preview key conversations coming to CHFA NOW Toronto and what they mean for the future of Canada's natural, organic and wellness industry.

  4. Jun 22

    Growing Pains & Growth Plans: A Founder's Guide to Scaling a CPG Brand

    What separates a CPG brand that scales from one that stalls? In this special edition of NOW & Then, Lynsey is joined by industry leaders from across the Canadian natural, organic, and wellness CPG industry to introduce CHFA's new Greenhouse Growth Sessions—an interactive learning series designed specifically for emerging brands. From preparing for buyer meetings and navigating product claims to maximizing trade show opportunities and knowing when it's time to engage brokers or distributors, this conversation explores some of the biggest decisions founders face as they grow their businesses. Get a preview of the practical advice, real-world experience, and candid conversations founders can expect from the Greenhouse Growth Sessions—and learn how The Greenhouse is helping emerging brands build stronger foundations for long-term success. 🌱 Registration for the Greenhouse Growth Sessions is now open at CHFA.ca.

  5. May 28

    What Consumers Want: Protein, Gut Health, Functional Beverages & Transparency

    In this episode, Lynsey and Ashley are joined by CHFA’s Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs and Quebec Relations, Jules Gorham, to chat about the biggest trends and conversations emerging from SIAL Montreal and the Plant-Based Foods Conference. Together, they explore the rise of gut health, evolving plant-based preferences, affordability-driven consumer behaviour, and the growing demand for functional foods and beverages. The conversation also unpacks the regulatory developments shaping innovation in Canada, including Health Canada’s new prebiotics monograph, increasing scrutiny around “clean” and “natural” marketing claims, and growing attention on GLP-1-related marketing language.

  6. Apr 30

    Rethinking Health: New Habits, New Standards

    This episode explores the shifts redefining food and wellness—from the rise of GLP-1s and changing consumer habits to evolving school food policy and a broader view of food safety. What does it all mean for the future of the industry?

  7. Mar 30

    The Wellness Reset: Staying Relevant in Uncertain Times

    Wellness isn’t going away—but it is being redefined.   In this episode of NOW & Then, Ashley and Lynsey explore the “wellness reset” and how uncertainty is reshaping consumer behaviour. From the shift away from “maxxing” toward essentials, to rising expectations around trust, value, and efficacy, they break down what matters most right now—and what it means for brands and retailers.   Plus, key regulatory signals from the EU and U.S. and what they could mean for Canada. Learn more about ⁠CHFA NOW⁠ Find out more about industry our ⁠events⁠ Follow us on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠ For Regulatory links email us at ⁠regulatory@chfa.ca U.S. glyphosate executive order / policy signalCompetition Bureau Canada report on shared kitchens / food hubsOttawa by-law update on home-based food businessesEU plant-based naming restrictions (⁠summary article⁠)UK Oatly ⁠case⁠ on “Post Milk Generation” or ⁠BBC article⁠

  8. Mar 2

    Wellness Fatigue, CBD Hits a Dead End & What’s Ahead for 2026

    In this February episode of NOW & Then, Lynsey and Ashley recap CHFA NOW Vancouver and unpack the forces shaping the natural, organic and wellness industry in 2026. From wellness fatigue and shifting consumer value expectations to a regulatory pathway for CBD products hitting a dead end, the conversation connects what’s happening at shelf with what’s unfolding in policy. They also cover updates on organic standards, labelling changes, non-alcoholic claims, and red tape reduction efforts — and what it all means for brands and retailers navigating the year ahead. If you’re looking for clarity on both consumer mindset and regulatory direction, this episode sets the context for what’s next. Learn more about CHFA NOW Find out more about industry our events Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram For Regulatory links email us at regulatory@chfa.ca

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About

Welcome to NOW & Then by the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) — Canada’s largest trade association for the natural, organic and wellness industry. Hosted by CHFA’s VP of Marketing & Communications, Lynsey Walker, and Director of Regulatory Affairs, Ashley Cornell, this podcast explores the issues shaping our industry — from regulatory developments and research to trends, events, and more. We break down complex topics and highlight how CHFA is supporting and advancing the natural, organic and wellness community in Canada.

Information

  • Creator
    CHFA
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © CHFA
  • Show Website
    NOW and Then