Products at shopping centers have labels plastered all over them. Along with the long list of ingredients that you might not be able to read, there also might be an eco-label floating around on it too. While some are valid labels, others you might not want to take to heart. As a consumer, you should be aware of the official-looking seals that are actually official and not just for show.
When you’re at the grocery store shopping for food, you should disregard products with the following labels: “natural,” “no additives” and “hormone free.” All three of these terms are virtually meaningless. Food marked “natural” can still contain hormones and antibiotics. The definition of additives is often defined by the maker, and even though a package of beef you’re looking at says “hormone free,” it could still contain testosterone, which is a hormone. The following green labels are the real deal: Biodynamic (Demeter), 100% Organic, and Certified Organic. With regard to fish, you can really only trust the Marine Stewardship Council label, which is blue with a fish. This label is placed on seafood that isn’t endangered or overfished.
Makeup is another product that you have to buy with caution, because the product might have been tested on animals. The Certified Humane Raised & Handled and the Leaping Bunny labels are trustworthy symbols. However, there are no set standards for the following: “cruelty free,” “free range,” “hypoallergenic,” “fragrance free,” “nontoxic,” “Earth smart,” “Green” and “Nature’s friend.”
When you’re buying items for your home such as appliances, wood products or cleaners, look for the following labels: Forest Stewardship Council, “Certified Biodegradable,” “Compostable,” Energy Star and Green-e Marketplace. If you enjoy decorating with real flowers or giving them as gifts, buy ones marked as VeriFlora or Fair Trade Certified.
The world of eco-labels can be a frustrating world of signs and symbols. One minute you think you’re making conscious purchases, and the next moment, you might find out that the label isn’t even regulated by any standards. To avoid the confusion, it might be beneficial to keep a list of the best eco-labels in your wallet so you have it with you.
