USDA Organic certification of cosmetics products is the world’s most meaningful organic standard because it excludes the use of toxic chemicals that other organic standards allow. This did not come about because of superior American foresight and wisdom, but because of a big industry blunder. When most national organic cosmetic standards were developed, stakeholders such as manufacturers, distributors and a …
What are Phthalates and How Can I Avoid Them?
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic and vinyl. They are used in hundreds of cosmetics and personal care products, including perfume, hair spray, soap, shampoo, nail polish, and skin moisturizers. And in consumer products such as flexible plastic and vinyl toys, shower curtains, wallpaper, vinyl miniblinds, food packaging, and plastic wrap. Phthalates, such …
What’s with ‘natural’ anyways?
The term ‘natural’ traditionally meant ‘something from nature’, unadulterated. Since the Synthetic Chemical Revolution – which started around 150 years ago – the term has taken on the additional meaning that something does not contain synthetic chemicals or has not been overly manipulated. Over the last two generations, the term has taken on even more importance since the pace of …
Why USDA Organic?
BEYOND NATURAL: At Organic Essence, we’re beyond “natural” and “conventional” with our USDA Certified Organic bodycare products. We source the highest quality ingredients from organic farms and suppliers. And, we share your concerns for the environment and future generations with our “Packaging for Life” commitment. QUICK SUMMARY of USDA: The “Gold Standard” is considered certification by the USDA National Organic Program (NOP). This is …
Natural Is Not Safe Enough
What is Natural? Most people think the term ‘natural’ means that a product is safer than other products. Natural product advertising feeds this perception with near-universal use of clean landscape imagery filled with happy good-looking models. But so often the most natural thing many brands have to offer is their attractive advertising. Most natural products are the same as conventional because they are …