Is Natural the Same as Organic?
There is a growing demand for organic and natural products amongst savvy consumers. However, brands can use these terms on their labels differently, and it can be unclear. Customers may be unsure whether natural is the same as organic or whether it even matters! We are big fans of natural, organic ingredients at ZenOsa, but it is important to know that “natural” doesn’t always mean better! Read on for more info on what it means for a product to claim it is “natural” and what to look for if you want to make sure that you are an informed consumer!
What does it mean if a product says it is “natural?”
A product saying “Natural” is fine, but the truth is, it doesn’t tell you much by itself! The word “natural” doesn’t have a clear legal definition or require a special certification. If this is important to you, you can be a savvy consumer by checking the label for what specific ingredients are listed. Pay attention to how transparent the company is about what is and isn’t in the product. For example, brands can list “natural flavors” as an ingredient without clarifying what that means. This term is loosely regulated and can contain >100 different chemicals that companies are not required to disclose.
Are natural products automatically safer?
Not necessarily! Natural doesn’t mean that the product doesn’t potentially include harmful things that could cause adverse or allergic reactions. Beware of vague or misleading ingredients. Supplements generally are also more loosely regulated than other types of medications. Therefore, you want to make sure you research, check labels and choose brands you trust!
What does it mean if a product says it is “organic?”
Organic ingredients have to meet strict guidelines about how the producers grow and source them. A product must contain at least 95% organic ingredients overall to get a USDA Certified Organic seal. We chose to offer certified organic products because this certification holds brands accountable for higher quality and sustainability standards throughout the production process; from growing and sourcing ingredients through manufacturing and production. Choosing certified organic to us means choosing the safest option for our planet and our kids, a no brainer!
The ZenOsa Difference:
Natural
But we mean it! At ZenOsa, when we say “natural,” we mean our ingredients come from nature and that our products are drug-free and contain no artificial flavors or colors.
Organic
Our products are USDA certified organic, so you can be sure they are of the highest quality and standards.
Safe
As Pediatrician Moms, we created our formulas with the help of a team of physician-scientists who use the latest scientific evidence to support their efficacy and safety. Our products are also drug-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and alcohol-free.
Transparent
We formulate our products using simple ingredients backed by science. We are committed to clearly listing every ingredient in our products so that you, our consumers, can make an informed choice. We even take it a step further, and when we use something in our products, we want you to know why! So if we use it, you can be sure that it is not only safe, but it is there for a reason. Check out our learn more page for more info about each of our ingredients and shop for ZenOsa products here.
Read more about our choices regarding organic ingredients on our faq page, here. For more information on USDA organic certification requirements head to the USDA website. To deep dive into what labeling requirements are in place by the FDA for food and dietary substances, read more here.
In summary, some excellent natural ingredients can be great for our health! However, natural products aren’t automatically better. There is a growing body of research studying which natural remedies and supplements have scientifically proven benefits and which do not. Choose companies that back up their ingredients with science and tell you the whole story about what is in their products!