Metagenics Makes Good

Metagenics Inc. is growing like Topsy.

The San Clemente maker of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements is riding the rapidly growing market for alternative health care. In 1994, its headquarters employed about 80 in a single building. Now, it employs about 135 locally and leases six buildings.

On Tuesday, it’s celebrating the groundbreaking for a new 87,600-square-foot complex to house its headquarters staff. The project, including offices, a warehouse and a 463-vehicle parking lot, is set to open April 1. The company expects to have hired an additional 30 to 40 people by then.

Little seems to slow the company down, including its settlement last year with the Federal Trade Commission over claims it made in marketing its calcium supplements. The company agreed to make sure it has adequate scientific proof to back health claims for products.

Officials said last week that terms of the agreement haven’t hampered its growth.

Barbara Marsh covers health care for The Times. She can be reached at (714) 966-7762 and at barbara.marsh@latimes.com.