KINGSTON, Jamaica – Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Minister, Phillip Paulwell, says the Government is increasing its focus on developing a “well-ordered” nutraceutical industry.

This, he said, is to better position the country to tap into the global nutraceutical market, estimated to be valued at US$600 billion.

The Minister stated that government action will include the establishment of a steering committee to undertake work aimed at creating the framework that will facilitate private sector inputs, through investments and “strategic alliances.”

Paulwell noted that over 50 per cent of plants declared to have medicinal properties can be found growing in Jamaica.

Pointing out that the global market is “growing exponentially, with each passing year,” Paulwell said Jamaica stands to benefit significantly from increasing demands for product extracts, such as: powders, teas, roots and tonic wines, herbal medicines, and food supplements.

“We recognize that in order to grow our economy and position our country on the path of sustainable development…we must dispel the notion that we are a nation of samples (by producing for large-scale consumption),” he contended.

Nutraceuticals relate to outputs, such as isolated nutrients, dietary supplements, herbal products, as well as specific diets and processed foods, including cereals, soups and beverages.