Organic cosmetics maker Emani of Norco, CA, received a 2011 Natural Health Beauty Award from the United Kingdom’s Natural Health Magazine. The firm was recognized for its Mineral Foundation and Crushed Blush Panama Mama. In other news, the company is offering a 10% line drive on opening orders through May 2011. On reorders, a “buy 5 lip products, get 1 free” offer is on until the end of May.

Herbalist & Alchemist (H&A), based in Washington, NJ, has modified the names of several of its formulas to include the name of its founder and product formulator, David Winston. For instance, H&A’s David Winston’s Focus Formula is now available. The company has also changed two product names for clarity: Compound Mullein Soothing Ear Oil, and Dragon’s Dream Penetrating Heat Balm.

Of 18 hair dyes tested, the French Consumer Reports found only Herbatint (from Bioforce USA, headquartered in Ghent, NY) received an acceptable safety rating. Products were tested according to the European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety standards for potential irritation, sensitization, mutagenic risks, and carcinogen and reproductive toxins.

In other news, Bioforce USA has its first mascot: The Allergy Avenger. The mascot was “inspired to demonstrate the power and efficacy of A. Vogel Allergy Relief, a homeopathic formula,” says the firm. The Allergy Avenger can be seen in an educational video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2PIrTzkHlE).

On April 6, GNC closed its initial public offering of nearly 26 million shares of its Class A common stock. Stocks began trading on April 1, on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker, GNC, for $16 a piece.

Author John Gray said on the Dr. Oz show, “PGX is the most important and super secret ingredient available!” He believes this powdered supplement from Natural Factors of Everett, WA balances blood sugar levels. To view the segment, visit www.doctoroz.com/videos/how-hormones-affect-your-marriage-pt-3.

Developed along with Stirling University, new Ideal Omega test kits are available for free exclusively to retail partners of Barlean’s, Ferndale, WA. The kits, valued at $150 each, reveal the exact ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6 fatty acids in the body.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, June 2011