Kew Gardens was the perfect setting for the Health Food Manufacturers’ Association (HFMA) to celebrate its 60th anniversary last month.
Guests enjoyed the sights and sounds of Kew Gardens before gathering at the Nash Conservatory for a drinks reception followed by dinner in The Orangery with guest speakers and a chance to catch up with friends and colleagues in the industry, even the weather was kind.
As part of the event, a static exhibition highlighted the key points and people from the last 60 years from the inception of the organisation in 1965 by Maurice Hanssen and the founder members, Alfonal, Granose Foods, Heath & Heather, MCI Publishing, and W. Prewett. With an aim to help defend and support the industry and create a collective voice for the emerging food supplement industry.
The timeline display was conversation starter, reminding guests of landmark moments such as the 1968 Medicines Act, the Food Supplements Directive, Brexit, the B6 campaign, Folic acid fortification and more. Some of the older photos highlighted some of the personalities and activities.
Following a welcome by HFMA President, Penny Viner, the event featured special guest speakers. Dr Bob Alkin, Programme Manager at Kew, gave a fascinating insight into the history of the botanical gardens and some of the scientific work happens at Kew, much of it linked to botanicals and herbal medicines.
Dr Zubir Ahmed, MP for Glasgow South West, shared his refreshing and passionate approach to encouraging the health of the nation, keeping people well through education about healthy diet and lifestyle. He was keen to meet members and discuss some of the challenges we face in the industry.
After dinner, HFMA Chair Nick Bennett welcomed TV gardener, author and Chartered Horticulturist, David Domoney. His entertaining speech left guests in no doubt about the importance of the natural world to our wellbeing. In particular just what a difference the right houseplant can make to your environment whether it be a calming scent or helping to clean the air, everyone went away seeing their plants in a new light.
Acknowledging and thanking the sponsors of the event, the HFMA says the event – filled with memories, friendships and pride at what has been achieved over the past 60 years – was a time to reflect on the past and also to look forward to a fast-changing future where the industry and the association still have an important role to play in supporting the health and wellbeing of the UK population.
