8 Myths of Organic Debunked

There are more than 8 myths to be debunked about the term “organic” but let’s start with these.

Myths about organic skin care, organic produce and what defines an organic product are ongoing in social media conversations and pepper many a magazine. Having been USDA certified organic for over 12 years, I have heard a lot of the ongoing debate of organic vs “better than organic certified” etc. etc.etc.

Myth #1 If it has “organic” on the label it is certified organic.

No, in the US it must have a USDA Organic Certified logo on it. NOP or the National Organic Program owns the word “Organics”. Therefore, if a company has Organics in its name like us, HollyBeth Organics, every item must be certifed. i.e. Said company cannot sell product that are not organic certified by USDA.

Myth #2 All certifications are the same.

USDA Organic Certification is more stringent than ECOCERT. Example, Ecocert allows borax and other ingredients that USDA Organic Certification does not. And if you are Made in the U.S. it would appear you would want to be certified here unless you are unable to be certified in the U.S. and therefore opt for the lesser of the two: ECOCERT. “… approved ingredients list (including preservatives) authorized in small quantity.”

Myth #3 Anybody can be USDA Organic Certified.

If this were true, then all U.S. based companies that are Ecocert or other certifications would be USDA certified. It is not an easy process. It is timely and costly for a small business like us. Most companies opt or Ecocert because they have chemicals and/or preservatives that are either manmade or tampered by man. 

Myth #4 All certifying agents are the same.

Check the board of directors and/or the governing body. Are they comprised of the same companies that are being certified? This would clearly not be an objective certification.

Myth #5 Once certified always certified.

We are audited every year. As the program changes so do the guidelines. This could result in spending money on new packaging to having a product no longer certified.

Myth #6 Skincare products need to have preservatives to be safe.

Preservatives are added to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast and fungus when water is part of the ingredient deck. Our products are waterless. Therefore, we do not need preservatives.

Myth #7 Organic skincare is too expensive.

False! I keep going back to the ingredient list of any product. This reminds me of what my mother always said, show me your friends and it shows volumes of who you are. Organic certified products are like idyllic friends. They are pure, consistent, and steadfast. They impact our lives continually. Due to their prolific nature, a little goes a long way and thus per use, the cost is more than palatable. 

Myth #8 Debunked If the label reads NATURAL it must be ORGANIC.

Not True. The process of becoming organic certified is an arduous process that takes many years and is greatly regulated .Any farm that is certified organic has been scrutinized for a three year cycle ensuring it is chemical free and follows the stringent regulations of becoming recognized as certified. Unfortunately, the use of the word organic alone DOES NOT ensure that the product is certified organic. When a product carries the USDA Certified logo that product. A demanding process but well worth the assurance!