How to Choose Between Natural and Organic Products

Due to an increased awareness of the negative effects of fertilizers and preservatives, a greater number of consumers now look for products without these harmful agents. However, even health conscientious consumers find it confusing when having to pick between a natural and an organic product. They incorrectly think that both terms are equal. Unfortunately, they’re not. Here are some tips to help you choose between natural and organic when buying a product.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Choose organic if you want a product that was produced without hormones, fertilizers or other hazardous chemicals.

2. Keep in mind that while a natural product may be processed without chemicals, the term applies only to the processing or packaging stage. If it’s a vegetable or fruit, it’s possible that fertilizers were used or that it’s a chemically engineered product. If the item contains meat, it’s possible that hormones or antibiotics were involved.

3. Be careful when buying products such air fresheners or household cleaning supplies. These products often include the word natural simply because it may have a natural scent like lemon. Although lemon scent is a natural scent, manufacturers used chemicals to achieve the scent.

4. Buy 100 percent essential oils instead of scented oils. The first is organic and contains botanical extracts. In contract, scented oils are generally oils with a synthetic scent. The same principle applies to candles. Opt for candles that specifically state essential oils or organic on the label.

5. Select organic products if you want to make sure that you’re avoiding chemicals as much as possible. Each state sets its own standards for organic producers. Organic products must meet the manufacturing requirements of the state where it's manufactured.

Tips & Warnings

• Organic products aren't as expensive as they used to be. Many grocery stores now have an organic section.

Resources

• OrganicAuthority.com
• Natural and Organic Food

[eliptica]

on 3/4/2009 Thanks for the great advice. The next time I am at a grocery store I will keep my eye out for the organic produce.

[Toanjalo]

on 12/28/2008 Nice article, thanks.

[lynnhsmomof2]

on 11/20/2008 Great advice! 5*