Just Label It – I Dare You!

Do labels really matter?  To date there are over 80,000 different unregulated chemicals in the US that are being put in our food, lotions, shampoos, laundry detergent and more.  The list is never ending, so I ask you again do labels really matter?  It’s important that you know what you are putting in your body as well as on your body.  As a rule of thumb I always read the labels to know what I’m giving to my family.  Reading the labels has never been more important than it is today.  Most companies figure if they can slap a label on their products they are in the clear.  What do all of these labels mean?  We want to help you cut through the clutter.  We’ve done the homework to find out what some of the top certifications are and what they truly mean.  Here is some insight into the most commonly trusted labels:

 

Certified USDA Organic: The USDA certification is one of the most popular seals.  This seal ensures that the entire product contains 95% or more of certified organic contents.  What that means is there is an enforced commitment from start to finish to make sure the product being produced is clean.  No usage of GMOs, no hormones or antibiotics, better soil quality and reduced exposure to synthetic pesticides.

Gluten Free Certified: The GFCO (Gluten-Free Certification Organization) is the top gluten-free certification in the world.  The GFCO stand for independent verification of quality, integrity and purity of products meeting the strict gluten-free standards.

Vegan Certified: The “Certified Vegan” logo is one of the easiest to recognize.  The Vegan Action trademarked logo stands for products that don’t contain animal products or byproducts.  They also ensure that the products have not been tested on animals.

Non-GMO Project Verified: The Non-GMO project uses best practices for GMO avoidance.  They focus on ongoing testing and reviews of potential at-risk ingredients, ingredient integrity and annual manufacturing facility audits and onsite inspections.

Certified B Corporation: One of the most prestigious certifications awarded to only the most outstanding companies that use the power of business to solve environmental and social problems.  These companies also work to meet higher standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

Kosher Certified: Kosher certification is a process by which a company ensures their food is fit for consumption by observant Jews who practice a religious dietary protocol rooted in biblical tradition.

LEED Certified: LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices to ensure a green building and a healthy work environment.

 

In short certifications matter; some companies are really trying to do the right thing.  If you see any of the above seals on products you can trust what you are buying.  As a mother and a wife it’s never been more important to me to do my homework and educate myself about what I’m giving to my family.  Next time you’re shopping look at the back of the label, see if you know what some of the ingredients are.  You’re a rockstar if you know 50% of what’s in there.  A good rule to follow is the longer the list of ingredients the more toxic, look for products that have a short list, the smaller the list the better.  If you have any other tips leave them below, we’d love to hear them.

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all the latest.  Have a great week!