As public awareness grows, the use, choice and reliability of healthy and organic products is becoming an increasingly important issue. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers around the world take human health and environmental impacts into account. Therefore, people prone to allergic reactions and children should use products that are as natural and certified as possible.
Which products contain harmful substances?
As the number of skin and respiratory disorders increases, people are beginning to pay closer attention to their diet, environment and lifestyle to look for the causes of allergic reactions. They can be found almost everywhere, but the most important ones to look out for are:
- food and drink;
- the containers you use to store, cook in and eat from;
- what you wear (baby nappies, clothes);
- what cosmetics, cleaning and household products you use for yourself and your babies;
- your home environment – furnishings, furniture, bedding, etc;
- mould. It is a “product of nature” that is harmful to human health.
It seems as if dangers lurk everywhere… But it should be approached consciously and without fear. Choose what is most favourable and safest. As industry grows, our bodies have to adapt, but we should not blindly trust everything that is offered.
How do I know if a natural product is safe and suitable for children?
Natural products include vegetables, fruit, cereals, etc., as well as other products that say “natural” on their packaging, but are they really safe for health?
The classification of a natural product does not guarantee its quality. Vegetables, lettuce or cereals can be fertilised within the legal limits, but this does not protect more sensitive organisms from adverse effects. It is therefore best to choose organic, certified products.
If you choose natural foods, pay attention to the description or ask the seller.
According to European Union legislation, any nutrient that is not used as a food or ingredient in a food will be classified as an additive[1]. These may include, for example: sweeteners, preservatives, colours or antioxidants. The State Food and Veterinary Office specifies that food additives may not be used in “unprocessed foodstuffs and foodstuffs intended for infants (from birth to 12 months) and young children (from 12 months to 3 years)”.[2]
Cosmetics, cleaning products and other non-food products are also divided into natural and organic. A product can be described as natural if some or all of the ingredients are non-synthetic. Unfortunately, plant-based ingredients may not be grown in organic conditions, so if you want to feel safe when buying products for your little ones, you should choose certified products.
What are the dangers of natural and organic cosmetics and cleaning products?
The highest quality, organic cosmetics do not protect against allergic reactions. Both your child’s and your skin may react to herbal extracts, essential and base oils.
For babies and young children, it is recommended to choose products that are suitable for their age group and dermatologist-tested.
According to aromatherapists, tea tree, chamomile, lavender and mandarin essential oils can be used for babies and young children. They can be used to enrich baby cosmetics or laundry detergents. If you want to make an oil blend or steam the rooms, consult the sellers or even your family doctor.
Natural and organic products for a safe childhood
Today, technology is advancing rapidly and the quality of products for babies and children is constantly improving. So when buying nappies, cosmetics, cleaning products, household products, etc., pay attention to the manufacturer’s reputation and the information provided. If the quality meets the highest standards, then the product may even be significantly better than natural.
If you haven’t yet chosen the most reliable products, be vigilant and curious, because sometimes the ingredients behind the catchy marketing phrases are not of the highest quality.
