Unknown-150x150According to Merriam Webster, the word “natural” is defined as “ existing in nature and not made or caused by people: coming from nature: not having any extra substances or chemicals added: not containing anything artificial…”

So can someone please explain to me how Safeway can create a brand called “OPEN NATURE 100% natural” and include a synthetic ingredient? A class action lawsuit has been brought against Safeway by American consumer Ryan Richards, who felt duped when he paid a premium for a package of waffles that contained a chemical additive used as a leavening agent. Read the full article here:

Putting all health issues aside, what this is all coming down to is the lack of regulation of chemicals by our government. The FDA has never issued a formal definition of the word “natural” so the food and cosmetics industry are free to call their products whatever they want. According to Mark Kastel, co-founder of the Cornucopia Institute, many trusted “natural” brands of cereal contain genetically modified corn and soybeans.  “Greenwashing” is rampant – many consumers are surprised to learn that the only thing “green” about Simple Green is its artificial color.  

Unfortunately, at this point in time, it’s every man for himself. Nobody is looking out for us except for the citizen-supported environmental watchdogs, and we hope, political representatives who are not in the pockets of industry lobbyists. We are left to blindly roam the aisles of our local supermarkets, fingers crossed that we are making the right choices for ourselves and our families.

 

Susan Cann Mother, Wife, Consumer, and Producer of Unacceptable Levels documentary