History of Nutrilite

While in China from 1915 until 1927, Carl observes the poor health of the people and makes a correlation between nutrition, health and lifestyle. Carl came back to California in 1919. Before returning to China, Carl spends time learning the nutritional value of milk at Carnation. At Carnation's research facility, he notes that dairy cattle thrive when fed exclusively on alfalfa. He believes alfalfa is an ideal food source and seeks a way to make it digestible in the human body.

Confined in Shanghai during the Revolution in 1926, Carl supplements his meager diet by creating “stews” of leafy plants and vegetables, bones and rusty nails. In 1927, Carl, at the age of 40, leaves China and arrives in San Pedro, California with only $24 in his pocket. Years later he said, "I was flat on my back and broke, but I was rich because I had a dream I was going to pursue at all costs." In 1933, Carl identifies components of plants that are essential to health and calls them “Associated Food Factors.” Today, these are recognized as phytonutrients. Carl introduces what many people claim to be the first multivitamin/multimineral supplement sold in the United States.

Carl names one of his first products VITA-6 for the six vitamins it contains. In 1937, he changes the name to VITASOL and he sets up a lab in Montebello, California, and pursues his dream full-time. Carl notes the term “Nutrilites” in a 1928 Science magazine and seeks permission to use it as the official name for his new company. In 1939, Nutrilite Products, Inc. (NPI) is officially incorporated. The cost to incorporate is $69.56. Nutrilite opens the Slauson Avenue processing facility in central Los Angeles, its first full manufacturing operation. As the business expands, the company begins packaging and shipping a few blocks away on South Hoover Street.

Carl purchases a 3.6-acre farm in California’s San Fernando Valley in 1942. He wants to grow his alfalfa and other plant materials without using pesticides and herbicides. He develops his own method of farming which he calls “Nutrilite Farming Practices.” and in 1945, Mytinger & Casselberry become exclusive distributors of Nutrilite Food Supplements. This officially marks the beginning of a unique and innovative marketing plan. Carl moves Nutrilite Products, Inc. from Slauson Avenue into a Quonset hut in Buena Park where he lives with his family, conducts research, and makes his concentrates from fresh plant materials in 1946. In 1948, Nutrilite introduces a vitamin and mineral nutrient product named NUTRILITE XX, because the product price is $20 and then Nutrilite moves to their current location on 5600 Beach Boulevard (then Grand Avenue) in Buena Park, California.

In 1949, Jay Van Andel and Rich DeVos the co-founders of Amway become distributors of the Nutrilite brand. Nutrilite Products, Inc. starts to launch its first food supplement for children in 1949. As sales continue to grow, 600 acres of land are purchased in Lakeview, California for a new processing facility. In cooperation with the University of Hawaii, Nutrilite Products, Inc. conducts research on the acerola cherry and introduces an all-natural vitamin C supplement. Nutrilite Products, Inc. gets government approval to use the first natural biological insect control: bacillus thuringiensis. The Company is granted a patent in 1976. After certain researches, Nutrilite establishes its own acerola cherry orchards in Hawaii in 1956. In 1970, Acerola cherry orchards are leased in Puerto Rico, their natural habitat, ensuring a continuing supply of natural vitamin C.

In 1958, Carl speaks before 1,000 Independent Business Owners at the Fiesta de Oro convention in Los Angeles to introduce his company. Dr. Sam announces Amway’s acquisition of a controlling interest in Nutrilite Products, Inc. Then the Nutrilite product line adds exponentially to Amway gross sales, as Nutrilite distributors become Amway distributors selling a full line of Nutriline products. In 1973, Nutrilite Founder Carl Rehnborg passes away at the age of 85. His son, Sam Rehnborg, Ph.D. replaced him in leading the company. In 1974, The Nutrilite brand becomes available in Canada—the first international presence for the brand. To meet increased demand for Acerola Concentrate, an additional 400 acres are purchased in Naguabo, Puerto Rico.

 
Ten years later, Nutrilite Products, Inc. celebrates its 50th anniversary. In its 50th anniversary years, Nutrilite product sales reach $126 million. In 1992, Nutrilite purchases more than 900 acres in Jalisco, Mexico. Rancho El Petacal's primary crops include citrus fruit, spinach, garlic and alfalfa. Amway, as the marketing place of Nutrilite products, opens manufacturing and distribution facilities in Guangzhou, China in 1995. With entry into China, Carl's initial observations regarding the nutrition and health of the Chinese population come full circle. In 1996, the Rehnborg Center for Nutrition & Wellness is established as the primary source of science, education, and training for Nutrilite products and Nutrilite Products, Inc. sales hit $1 billion as the brand launches in the 25th market, Indonesia.

In 1998, Nutrilite and Amway acquire the 4,100 acre Fazendo Planato Grande in Brazil. Nutrilite also gave a controlling interest in Trout Lake Farm—the largest certified organic herbal farm in North America. In that year, Nutrilite prides itself on being a "Global Good Neighbour," providing for economic security, health care, and education for the local cultures on Nutrilite Farms. In 1999, all Nutrilite farms adhere to strict guidelines that emphasize the responsible management of natural resources and respect for nature’s processes. Each Nutrilite Farm is certified organic according to criteria set by its respective country. In 2004, Nutrilite Health Institute establishes the Scientific Advisory Board, consisting of distinguished scientists from around the world. In 2008, the Nutrilite brand is named an official sponsor of A.C. Milan Soccer Club and became the World's Leading Brand of Vitamin, Mineral and Dietary Supplements, based on 2008 retail sales. In 2009, the Nutrillite brand celebrates its 75th anniversary.