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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
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12 Months Ended | |
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Dec. 31, 2013
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| Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ||
| Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] |
NOTE 2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements (“Financial Statements”) include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries and its Joint Venture, a variable interest entity (see Note 8). All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Seasonality of the Business Our net sales are derived principally from our OTC cold remedy products. Currently, our sales are influenced by and subject to fluctuations in the timing of purchase and the ultimate level of demand for our products which are a function of the timing, length and severity of each cold season. Generally, a cold season is defined as the period of September to March when the incidence of the common cold rises as a consequence of the change in weather and other factors. We generally experience in the third and fourth quarter higher levels of net sales along with a corresponding increase in marketing and advertising expenditures designed to promote its products during the cold season. Revenues and related marketing costs are generally at their lowest levels in the second quarter when consumer demand generally declines. We track health and wellness trends and develop retail promotional strategies to align our production scheduling, inventory management and marketing programs to optimize consumer purchases. Use of EstimatesThe preparation of financial statements and the accompanying notes thereto, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. Examples include the provision for bad debt, sales returns and allowances, inventory obsolescence, useful lives of property and equipment and intangible assets, impairment of property and equipment and intangible assets, income tax valuations and assumptions related to accrued advertising. When providing for the appropriate sales returns, allowances, cash discounts and cooperative incentive promotion costs (“Sales Allowances”), we apply a uniform and consistent method for making certain assumptions for estimating these provisions. These estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience, current trends and other factors that management believes to be relevant at the time the financial statements are prepared. Management reviews the accounting policies, assumptions, estimates and judgments on a quarterly basis. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Our primary product, Cold-EEZEÒ Cold Remedy lozenges, utilizes a proprietary zinc gluconate formulation which has been clinically proven to reduce the severity and duration of common cold symptoms. Factors considered in estimating the appropriate sales returns and allowances for this product include it being (i) a unique product with limited competitors, (ii) competitively priced, (iii) promoted, (iv) unaffected for remaining shelf-life as there is no product expiration date and (v) monitored for inventory levels at major customers and third-party consumption data. In addition to Cold-EEZE® Cold Remedy lozenges, we market and distribute a variety of Cold-EEZE® Cold Remedy QuickMelts® and a Cold-EEZE® Cold Remedy Oral Spray. We also manufacture, market and distribute an organic cough drop and a Vitamin C supplement (“Organix®”). Each of the Cold-EEZE® Cold Remedy Oral Spray and QuickMelts® products, and Organix® products carry shelf-life expiration dates for which we aggregate such new product market experience data and update our sales returns and allowances estimates accordingly. Sales allowances estimates are tracked at the specific customer and product line levels and are tested on an annual historical basis, and reviewed quarterly. Additionally, we monitor current developments by customer, market conditions and any other occurrences that could affect the expected provisions relative to net sales for the period presented.
Cash EquivalentsWe consider all highly liquid investments with an initial maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents include cash on hand and monies invested in money market funds. The carrying amount approximates the fair market value due to the short-term maturity of these investments. Inventory Inventory is valued at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis (FIFO), or market. Inventory items are analyzed to determine cost and the market value and appropriate valuation adjustments are established. At December 31, 2013 and 2012 the financial statements include adjustments to reduce inventory for excess or obsolete inventory of $635,000 and $890,000, respectively. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, inventory included raw material, work in progress and packaging amounts of $1.6 million and $1.0 million, respectively, and finished goods of $958,000 and $1.0 million, respectively. Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. We use the straight-line method in computing depreciation for financial reporting purposes. The depreciation expense is computed in accordance with the estimated asset lives (see Note 3). Concentration of Risks Future revenues, costs, margins and profits will continue to be influenced by our ability to maintain our manufacturing availability and capacity together with our marketing and distribution capabilities and the requirements associated with the development of OTC and other personal care products in order to continue to compete on a national and/or international level. Our business is subject to federal and state laws and regulations adopted for the health and safety of users of our products. Our OTC cold remedy products are subject to regulations by various federal, state and local agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and, as applicable, the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash investments and trade accounts receivable. We maintain cash and cash equivalents with certain major financial institutions. As of December 31, 2013, our cash was $1.6 million and our bank balance was $1.8 million. Of the total bank balance, $554,000 was covered by federal depository insurance and $1.2 million was uninsured. Trade accounts receivable potentially subjects us to credit risk. We extend credit to our customers based upon an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition and credit history and generally we do not require collateral. Our broad range of customers includes many national chain, regional, specialty and local retail stores (see Note 11). During Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, effectively all of our net revenues were related to domestic markets. Our revenues are principally generated from the sale of OTC cold remedy products which approximated 94%, 95% and 95% of total revenues for Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. A significant portion of our business is highly seasonal, which causes major variations in operating results from quarter to quarter. The third and fourth quarters generally represent the largest sales volume for the OTC cold remedy products. Raw materials used in the production of the products are available from numerous sources. Certain raw material active ingredients used in connection with Cold-EEZE® Cold Remedy products are purchased from a single unaffiliated supplier. Should the relationship terminate or the vendor become unable supply material, we believe that the current contingency plans would prevent a termination from materially affecting our operations. However, if the relationship was terminated, there may be delays in production of our products until an acceptable replacement supplier is located. Long-lived Assets
We review the carrying value of our long-lived assets with definite lives whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. When indicators of impairment exist, we determine whether the estimated undiscounted sum of the future cash flows of such assets is less than their carrying amounts. If less, an impairment loss is recognized in the amount, if any, by which the carrying amount of such assets exceeds their respective fair values. The determination of fair value is based on quoted market prices in active markets, if available, or independent appraisals; sales price negotiations; or projected future cash flows discounted at a rate determined by management to be commensurate with our business risk. The estimation of fair value utilizing discounted forecasted cash flows includes significant judgments regarding assumptions of revenue, operating and marketing costs; selling and administrative expenses; interest rates; property and equipment additions and retirements; industry competition; and general economic and business conditions, among other factors. Fair value is based on the prices that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In order to increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements, a three-tier fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. These tiers include: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions. Revenue Recognition
Sales are recognized at the time ownership is transferred to the customer. Revenue is reduced for trade promotions, estimated sales returns, cash discounts and other allowances in the same period as the related sales are recorded. We make estimates of potential future product returns and other allowances related to current period revenue. We analyze historical returns, current trends, and changes in customer and consumer demand when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns and other allowances. Our return policy accommodates returns for (i) discontinued products, (ii) store closings and (iii) products that have reached or exceeded their designated expiration date. We do not impose a period of time within which product may be returned. All requests for product returns must be submitted to us for pre-approval. The main components of our returns policy are: (i) we will accept returns that are due to damaged product that is un-saleable and such return request activity fall within an acceptable range, (ii) we will accept returns for products that have reached or exceeded designated expiration dates and (iii) we will accept returns in the event that we discontinue a product provided that the customer will have the right to return only such items that it purchased directly from us. We will not accept return requests pertaining to customer inventory “Overstocking” or “Resets”. We will only accept return requests for product in its intended package configuration. We reserve the right to terminate shipment of product to customers who have made unauthorized deductions contrary to our return policy or pursue other methods of reimbursement. We compensate the customer for authorized returns by means of a credit applied to amounts owed or to be owed and in the case of discontinued product only, also by way of an exchange. We do not have any significant product exchange history. As of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we included a provision for sales allowances of $128,000 and $109,000, respectively, which are reported as a reduction to account receivables. Additionally, accrued advertising and other allowances as of December 31, 2013 include $1.5 million for estimated future sales returns and $1.3 million for cooperative incentive promotion costs. As of December 31, 2012, accrued advertising and other allowances include $1.3 million for estimated future sales returns and $1.5 million for cooperative incentive promotion costs. Shipping and Handling Product sales carry shipping and handling charges to the purchaser, included as part of the invoiced price, which is classified as revenue. In all cases, costs related to this revenue are recorded in cost of sales. Stock Compensation We recognize all share-based payments to employees and directors, including grants of stock options, as compensation expense in the financial statements based on their fair values. Fair values of stock options are determined through the use of the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The compensation cost is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period of the award, which usually coincides with the vesting period. Stock and stock options for purchase of our common stock, $0.0005 par value, (“Common Stock”) have been granted to both employees and non-employees pursuant to the terms of certain agreements and stock option plans (see Note 6). Stock options are exercisable during a period determined by us, but in no event later than ten years from the date granted. In Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, we charged to operations $269,000, $246,000 and $631,000, respectively, for share-based compensation expense for the aggregate fair value of stock grants issued and vested stock options earned. Variable Interest Entity
The Joint Venture, of which we own a 50% membership interest, qualifies as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) and we have consolidated the Joint Venture beginning with the quarter ended March 31, 2010 (see Note 8). Advertising and Incentive Promotions
Advertising and incentive promotion costs are expensed within the period in which they are utilized. Advertising and incentive promotion expense is comprised of media advertising, presented as part of sales and marketing expense; cooperative incentive promotions and coupon program expenses, which are accounted for as part of net sales; and free product, which is accounted for as part of cost of sales. Advertising and incentive promotion costs incurred for Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $10.8 million, $10.2 million, and $8.8 million, respectively. Included in prepaid expenses and other current assets was $1.3 million and $2.2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, relating to prepaid deposits for advertising and promotion programs scheduled principally for the first quarter of Fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. Research and Development
Research and development costs are charged to operations in the period incurred. Expenditures for Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $824,000, $1.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively. For Fiscal 2013, Fiscal 2012 and Fiscal 2011, research and development costs are related principally to new product development initiatives and costs associated with OTC cold remedy products. Income Taxes We utilize the asset and liability approach which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, we generally consider all expected future events other than enactments of changes in the tax law or rates. Until sufficient taxable income to offset the temporary timing differences attributable to operations and the tax deductions attributable to option, warrant and stock activities are assured, a valuation allowance equaling the total net current and non-current deferred tax asset is being provided (see Note 9). We utilize a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount which is more than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Any interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions will be recorded as interest or administrative expense, respectively. The major jurisdiction for which we file income tax returns is the United States. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has examined our then tax year ended September 30, 2005 and has made no changes to the filed tax returns. The tax years 2006 and forward remain open to examination by the IRS. The tax years 2004 and forward remain open to examination by the various state taxing authorities to which we are subject. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and long term obligations are reflected in the Financial Statements at carrying value which approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. Determination of the fair value of related party payables, if any, is not practicable due to their related party nature. Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (ASU Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income,” (“ASU 2011-05”) which amends current comprehensive income guidance. This accounting update eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of shareholders’ equity. Instead, comprehensive income must be presented in either a single continuous statement of comprehensive income which contains two sections, net income and other comprehensive income, or in two separate but consecutive statements. ASU 2011-05 was effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2011 with early adoption permitted. In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-12 “Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05.” This accounting update stated that the specific requirement to present items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income alongside their respective components of net income and other comprehensive income will be deferred. In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02 “Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income”. This accounting update requires companies to present the effects on the line items of net income of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income if the amount being reclassified is required under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles to be reclassified in its entirety to net income in the same reporting period. ASU 2013-02 is effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU 2013-02 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-11, “Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists” (“ASU 2013-11”). ASU 2013-11 amends Accounting Standards Codification 740, “Income Taxes,” to require that in certain cases, an unrecognized tax benefit, or portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward when such items exist in the same taxing jurisdiction. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments should be applied prospectively to all unrecognized tax benefits that exist at the effective date, and retrospective application is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact, if any this update will have on our financial statements. |