Spot Lousy Labels On Products Claiming To Be Green & Natural {Tips}

Posted by Angela V / Published on September 8, 2012
Spot Lousy Labels on green Products

With Erica Johnson, the host of Marketplace.

Earlier in the Summer I had a chance to participated in the “Lousy Labels: Home Edition” episode of the T.V Show CBC News: Marketplace.  In this episode Erica Johnson investigates so-called “green” household products, putting them to the test, and uncovering surprising truths about some popular brands.  This time she counts down ten products which deserve a Lousy Label for their claims to be greener and safer.

An eye opener and must watch for eco-conscious people like you! The episode aired a few days ago but it is also available online, you can watch the full episode on their website *HERE*

Here are also a few useful tips on how you can spot lousy labels on “green” home products (from their website):

Spot lousy labels

1. Be wary of “green” cleaners that won’t list their ingredients on the label

2. Check the label for some indication that the claims have been independently verified

3. Look closely at any eco-friendly seal on the package: some look official, but may be the company’s own

4. Be skeptical of wiggle-words like “contains natural ingredients”

5. Read the fine print: “natural” products can still be harmful or toxic

6. Make sure a product’s claims are specific: vague green claims can be meaningless

And don’t forget that vinegar, lemon and baking soda make some wonderful cleaning solutions for your entire house! No chemicals and safe for your entire family.  For tips on how to use home-made cleaners check out our green cleaning tips here.

Cleaning Products, Tips
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11 Responses to “Spot Lousy Labels On Products Claiming To Be Green & Natural {Tips}”

  1. Elva Roberts — September 17, 2012 @ 9:47 am (#
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    September 17- As a consumer, it is discouraging to find out that some companies are taking advantage of people who are really trying to be ecologically responsible. I have been slowly buying ‘green’ products. I usually read labels on all food stuffs. I realize now that it is still consumer beware and just because it is called “green’, ‘taint necessarily so! Thank you and the good people on “Maketplace’ who work so hard trying to bring the latest scams on consumers. -el03ro

    Reply

  2. NYCmama1 — September 17, 2012 @ 11:31 am (#
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    Great episode! Thanks so much for sharing it and congratulations for being part of it!

    Reply

  3. amy v — September 17, 2012 @ 1:09 pm (#
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    great tips!! i’m one who figures that if the label says ‘environmentally safe’ or something like that, it’s safe for that and my family…not always the case!!

    Reply

  4. Carole Ingram — September 20, 2012 @ 10:02 pm (#
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    Yes, that is very true, “natural products” can still be harmful to you!!! So think twice before using a natural product, do your research on each one and use your best judgement. Great post!!

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  5. Sania Akbar — September 23, 2012 @ 12:14 am (#
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    NIce tips .. Thanks for sharing :)

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  6. Donna L. — December 14, 2012 @ 9:29 pm (#
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    thanks for the good info.

    Reply

  7. cathy henatyszen — January 5, 2013 @ 7:11 pm (#
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    I just watched a tv program on this same topic, good topic to discuss

    Reply

  8. Nena Sinclair — March 27, 2013 @ 1:23 am (#
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    Thank you, this is good to know, I’ve often wondered about certain “natural” cleaning products, now I know what to look for! :)

    Reply

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