Supplement Demand on the Rise in Mexico

Q: How does USANA differentiate itself from other wellness brands?

A: The company was founded by a scientist, Myron Wentz, with a mission centered on proactive health. He wondered why his family faced chronic degenerative diseases and sought to find solutions. This question has driven USANA and our 20,000 active distributors to focus on enhancing health. Over the past 30 years, our company has expanded to 25 countries. We have 180 scientists on staff who are dedicated to advancing science and developing our products. 

In Mexico, USANA is the only company offering personalized supplementation through a DNA test. Launched this year, as part of our 20th anniversary in Mexico, this test analyzes genetic markers to provide tailored health recommendations. Personalized supplementation means our customers receive exactly what they need, rather than relying on generic products. 

Q: What trends are you observing in the Mexican supplement market, and how is USANA positioned to meet these demands?

A:  This year’s National Association of Dietary Supplements (ANAISA) study on consumer trends found three key preferences. First, there is a growing emphasis on proactive health in Mexico. Consumers are increasingly motivated to change their habits and adopt healthier lifestyles. This shift is driven by the fact that 60% of Mexicans consume junk food and the country has one of the highest per capita rates of sugary drink consumption. These factors contribute to chronic degenerative diseases being among the top causes of death. As a result, people are prioritizing improvements in sleep, hydration, exercise, healthy eating, and supplementation.

Another important trend is the focus on maintaining a healthy weight. Given the high rates of diabetes, including alarming levels of childhood diabetes, there is a strong emphasis on weight management. Supplements that support weight loss or help maintain a healthy weight are in increasing demand. The third trend is active nutrition. This targets individuals who already lead healthy lifestyles and exercise regularly. These individuals seek supplements, proteins, and electrolytes to enhance performance and recovery. 

These trends highlight a significant shift toward proactive health management, effective stress control, healthy weight maintenance, and active nutrition.

Q: How is USANA working to promote lifestyle changes among Mexicans?

A: USANA is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of health and encouraging lifestyle changes among Mexicans. Mexican culture often centers around food, leading to widespread unhealthy habits. Managing Type 1 diabetes can cost an individual up to MX$500,000 (US$28,000) annually, while Type 2 diabetes can cost up to MX$1.2 million per year, with inflation in healthcare continually driving up costs. 

Changing habits is a more cost-effective strategy than managing a chronic illness. Our goal is to help people understand the benefits of supplementation and make informed health decisions.

Q: What are USANA's strategies for addressing nutritional deficiencies and chronic health issues?

A: Data shows that 75% of adults in Mexico are overweight or obese, and 49% have hypertension. Additionally, chronic malnutrition affects 1 in 3 preschool-aged children and 1 in 4 primary school-aged children, leading to developmental and cognitive delays. Given the decline in nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables over the past 70 years, we believe that supplementation plays a crucial role in compensating for these deficiencies. 

We are committed to spreading health awareness through forums, educational events, and community engagement. By advocating for better dietary choices and preventive measures, we aim to address chronic and degenerative diseases proactively and to contribute to overall health improvement. Our mission is to create healthier families and populations by focusing on prevention and personalized health solutions.

Q: How does USANA educate consumers on the proper use and dosage of its products to achieve optimal results?

A: Proper use and dosage is placed on each product label. Our labels and the dietary supplements industry in general is regulated by COFEPRIS, which places restrictions on how we communicate the uses and benefits of our supplements. Although, these guidelines are limited and strict, there is an ongoing effort within ANAISA, which oversees about 76% of regulated companies in Mexico, to redefine them, which could allow for more detailed communication about claims and the benefits of supplements. 

On our end, our communication strategies include wellness campaigns that discuss general health benefits to consumers without making direct claims about specific products. We provide consistent specialized health and product trainings for our sales force and reinforce the importance of testing the products, so they became true product ambassadors. 

We also engage in educational events and forums to raise awareness among both consumers and healthcare professionals about the role of supplementation in overall health.

Q: How do consumer preferences in the Mexican skincare market shape USANA's strategies for product innovation and development?

A: There is a difference between products based on cosmetics and those grounded in scientific research. Our Celavive product line was developed by scientists and includes patented technologies. Celavive focuses on purity and the avoidance of harmful chemicals. We have a new vegan line that uses recyclable packaging, which aligns with current trends toward sustainability and ethical consumption. For over a decade, we have been recognized as a socially responsible company, adhering to strict standards both in Mexico and throughout our manufacturing processes.

Our latest launch features skincare products with postbiotics. This innovative line aims to address issues such as acne, pigmentation, and fine lines, while promoting the skin’s natural processes. The postbiotics in these products help the skin generate its own collagen, ensuring optimal hydration and nourishment.

Q: What have been the latest results of your R&D efforts?

A: Our commitment to R&D encompasses a wide range of initiatives. Our team of scientists is dedicated not only to creating new products but also to advancing preventive health measures. For example, we recently collaborated with Peking University in China, which is known for its expertise in traditional Chinese medicine. The collaboration resulted in two new products derived from ancient Chinese medicine. The first product, designed to support the immune system, uses mushrooms known as adaptogens. The second product features ingredients from the copa tree root, which is believed to enhance memory and concentration. 

This partnership is part of a broader effort involving about 40 universities worldwide. In Mexico, we are starting a project with Tecnológico de Monterrey, focusing on diabetes. USANA is continuously exploring new technologies and innovations in supplementation. We understand that consumers are increasingly looking for smaller, more convenient forms of supplements, such as powders that can be easily dissolved in water. We also introduced a powder, which combines green tea, black tea, and red tea to provide an energy boost. 

USANA Health Sciences is a US-based international company that researches, manufactures, and sells premium supplements and skin and personal care products through an entrepreneurial platform.