Natural substances are chemical compounds found naturally in plants, animals and minerals. Unfortunately, this definition doesn’t always work perfectly; for instance distillation of aromatic plants to make essential oils may generate chemicals not present in their raw form.
Numerous plant-derived ingredients have become mainstays in cosmetic formulations. From xanthan gum and beeswax to jojoba oil, these natural products show an industry shift towards eco-friendly and safe cosmetics.
Natural Flavors
Manufacturers in the food industry often utilize natural flavors derived from plants and animals (1) for flavor enhancement purposes (1), though synthetic versions of them can also be produced (2). They’re a popular choice among consumers who may perceive them as healthier alternatives (3).
There is an important distinction between ingredients labeled as natural and those that are “naturally sourced.” A true “natural” flavor chemical will resemble its natural state closely while naturally sourced ingredients may have been altered in some way during production.
Once an ingredient is determined to be natural, the FDA performs extensive evaluations under stringent conditions to assess its safety. Many natural substances have already been deemed safe. Natural ingredients are extremely common in personal care products from multiple manufacturers – with more than 100 listed on 100 products from just 10 of them! (5). They’re often mixed in with synthetic chemicals for enhanced flavor or added benefits.
Natural Preservatives
Preservatives extend the shelf life of food items by inhibiting microbial growth, spoilage and deterioration. They protect against diseases like botulism while keeping products tasting fresh and smelling great – as well as protecting skin health.
Natural preservatives can be found in herbs, vegetables, fruits, and spices derived from renewable resources that don’t require extensive industrial processing. Furthermore, natural preservatives may be safer alternatives to synthetic chemicals due to being produced naturally through plant matter instead of produced synthetically via chemical processes.
Natural preservatives contain antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that act to keep oils in food from going rancid – examples include rosemary extract and thyme oil. Another advantage of natural preservatives over synthetic ones is that they don’t reduce nutritional value; something synthetic ones could do. Unfortunately, not all natural preservatives are created equal – some may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals while organic options tend to cause less problems overall.
Natural Skin Care Products
Integrating natural skin care products into your routine is an excellent way to nurture your complexion with vitamin-rich herbs, botanicals and essential oils that offer multiple health benefits. Natural products tend to be gentler on your skin and can reduce irritation, dryness and signs of aging while being free from harsh chemicals, preservatives and artificial fragrances – plus you don’t have to worry about being exposed to harsh chemicals!
Are You Searching for Natural Skin Care Products? When seeking out the ideal natural skin care product, always read and follow label instructions carefully. Search for ingredients sourced from organically grown plants without parabens, phthalates or synthetic fragrances as these hormone-disrupting chemicals have been linked with infertility issues and should therefore be avoided at all costs. PFAS-free products should also be prioritized due to potential infertility concerns associated with hormone disrupting chemicals (PFASs).
Test out each product to see how well it fits with both your needs and budget. Be patient as finding a great product may take some time; with careful research and trial and error, however, beautiful skin that’s good for both the environment and yourself will soon follow!
Natural Food Additives
With increasing demands for clean food and increased interest in health-oriented diets, people have increasingly turned towards natural additives for food production. While chemical additives may be controversial, many can have beneficial roles to play during food production; such as emulsifiers that prevent liquid products from separating, thickeners which provide consistent textures, and stabilizers which keep foods from clumping together. New compounds with multiple functions are being created; however, due to extensive research requirements and toxicity evaluation processes required before approval.
Every food in your pantry likely contains at least one additive to enhance its flavor or appearance, protect it from spoilage or add vitamins and minerals. But it can be challenging to identify which are truly “natural”, given their use is unregulated on US labels; additionally, consumers often misinterpret this term and create confusion surrounding its meaning.
