The In-GREEN-dient Truth
When you see a product labeled “organic” or “natural,” can you really be sure that it’s safe and non-toxic? Unfortunately, in the U.S., you can’t. Although standards have been established in the UK (Soil Association of the UK), Germany (BDIH) and France (Eco-Cert) for years; standards that qualify “organic” and “natural” products are still pending in the United States. What’s worse is that many manufacturers ‘hide’ toxic chemicals in other compounds listed on the ingredient labels. So how do you know what you are buying? In many cases, you don’t.
An article by Maria Cone in the LA Times recently called attention to this problem. The Organics Consumer Association tested 100 “natural” or “organic” soaps, shampoos, and other product and found that 47 of them contained the cancer causing chemical 1, 4 Dioxane. In experimental tests, the chemical has been found to cause cancer in lab animals, and has been flagged as a probable human carcinogen by the scientific and medical community. Unfortunately, the FDA has not banned the chemical from being used in cosmetics, but it has recommended that the industry reduce amounts of 1, 4 Dioxane as much as possible.
Products that tested positive include those from Alba, Jason, Avalon Organics, and Zia Natural Skincare brands. Three of the products are from the Whole Foods line, 365 Everyday Value. Another surprising member on the list is Seventh Generation dish soap.
So how can you protect yourself or your family and avoid 1, 4 Dioxane? It is more of a task than it may seem, because the compound is not listed on ingredient labels. It is contained in most PEG’s (Polyetheylene Glycol), a dangerous compound that is linked to leukemia, uterine, breast and brain cancer. PEG’s however are not the only ingredient with hidden dangers. Artificial colors and fragrances also contain harmful chemicals that do not appear on labels.
It’s important to be able to trust the place where you buy products for yourself and those you love. Kaia House was founded on the principle that consumers have a right to know exactly what is in a product and that living healthy toxic free lives is not a privilege but a necessity. That’s why we label every ingredient (active and inactive) clearly, and screen for toxic chemicals like PEG’s and artificial fragrances and coloring to ensure that we are offering you the best and cleanest natural and organic products on the market. So take a look around, worry-free, at our 1000+ products that keep you looking and feeling beautiful and healthy.
