More than 79 dietary supplement industry executives representing member companies of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), the leading trade association for the dietary supplement and functional food industry, convened in Washington this week for CRN’s annual Day on the Hill—a cornerstone event that promotes direct dialogue between industry leaders and lawmakers.
Held Wednesday, June 11, the event featured 69 face-to-face meetings on Capitol Hill, including discussions with key lawmakers from both parties, many of whom play vital roles in shaping the future of nutrition policy in the U.S.
“CRN’s Day on the Hill is a powerful reminder that science-driven policy and strong regulatory frameworks begin with honest, constructive conversations,” said Steve Mister, CRN President and CEO. “We appreciate the many members of Congress and staff who welcomed our members and listened with interest to the issues that matter most to the millions of Americans who rely on dietary supplements for better health.”
A Focused Advocacy Agenda
Participants advocated for expanded consumer access to dietary supplements through HSA/FSA eligibility, underscored how FDA’s current interpretation of drug preclusion continues to create barriers to innovation and progress, and raised concerns about economic uncertainties due to potential tariffs. In addition, CRN members reiterated their support for FDA oversight through the Office of Dietary Supplement Programs (ODSP) and discussed the role of industry-led initiatives to bolster transparency and quality assurance.
Member Perspectives: A Commitment to Dialogue
“CRN’s Day on the Hill was a tremendous success for Kenvue,” said Katie Butler, Head of US Zarbee’s & Dietary Supplements. “It gave us a unique opportunity to connect with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and share how our industry’s products play a vital role in supporting the health and wellness of American families. These conversations are essential to ensuring policymakers understand the value we bring to public health.”
Barry Ritz, PhD, Vice President and Head of U.S. Regulatory, Scientific & Medical Affairs at Nestle Health Science echoed Butler’s sentiments: “These meaningful conversations plant seeds to help ensure our policymakers are aware of the critical benefits our products deliver to patients and consumers across the nation. This kind of outreach enables us to build connections with lawmakers and clearly demonstrate how our industry’s products support the health and wellness of all Americans.”
Educating New Lawmakers, Sustaining Momentum
This year’s Day on the Hill followed CRN’s extensive engagement campaign with all 79 freshman congressional offices. That initiative laid the groundwork for effective advocacy by introducing new lawmakers to the supplement industry’s contributions to public health and the economy.
“Our outreach strategy in 2025 has been grounded in proactive education and collaborative advocacy,” said Julia Gustafson, CRN’s Vice President of Government Relations. “The Day on the Hill is where those relationships take root. When policymakers see that our industry is science-based, transparent, and committed to responsible innovation, the path forward becomes clearer.”
For more information about CRN’s Day on the Hill, including event photos or policy backgrounders, or for media inquiries, contact CRN’s Jeff Ventura at jventura@crnusa.org.
About the Council for Responsible Nutrition
The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), founded in 1973, is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing 180+ dietary supplement and functional food manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and companies providing services to those manufacturers and suppliers. In addition to complying with a host of federal and state regulations governing dietary supplements and food in the areas of manufacturing, marketing, quality control and safety, our manufacturer and supplier members also agree to adhere to additional voluntary guidelines as well as to CRN’s Code of Ethics. Follow us on Twitter @CRN_Supplements and LinkedIn.