The Natural Products Association (NPA), a trade association representing the natural products industry, has hired Josh Long as its vice president of communications and regulatory affairs. He was formerly the associate editorial director of Informa Markets’ SupplySide Supplement Journal (previously known as Natural Products Insider).

Long has more than two decades of experience in journalism, including 13 years spent covering regulatory, legal, and business developments in the dietary supplement and natural products sectors. According to NPA, Long will bring in-depth industry knowledge and strategic communications expertise to the NPA team, and his new role will involve leading NPA’s efforts in regulatory engagement, public policy advocacy, and member education.

“Josh has earned widespread respect across our industry for his thoughtful analysis, sharp reporting and commitment to transparency,” said Daniel Fabricant, PhD, president and CEO of the Natural Products Association. “His transition from journalist to advocate is a major asset for NPA and our members as we continue to navigate complex challenges and promote innovation.”

Long, who holds a law degree, has covered critical issues including FDA policy, interpretation of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), Federal Trade Commission enforcement actions, food safety, and emerging regulatory trends affecting dietary supplements, functional foods, and other health products. As a reporter and editor with SupplySide, which hosts the largest dietary supplement ingredient trade show in North America, he shaped the conversation among brand owners, manufacturers, retailers, and regulators.

“I’ve followed and reported on NPA’s work for many years and am excited to be joining an organization that plays such a vital role in protecting consumer access and advancing the integrity of natural products,” said Long. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to be a part of the NPA as the organization continues to advocate for a fair, quality-driven and science-based regulatory environment that supports innovation and public health.”