What is a “natural” food, anyway?

What is a “natural” food, anyway?


The word “natural” has become a ubiquitous buzzword used on food packaging to draw health-conscious consumers.

But many customers wonder what the term actually means for the products they buy. Even worse, some consumers probably assume products bearing this label are something they’re not.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is stepping in to help clear things up after receiving several petitions from concerned citizens seeking clarification on the term. One petition even requested a ban of it altogether. Another factor that’s bringing the administration into a renewed discussion is the request of federal courts that have heard cases involving use of the word in food packaging.

Currently, the F-D-A specifies that a product labeled “natural” may contain only certain types of ingredients. But there are no restrictions on the methods used to create a food or beverage with this label.

Through February 10, 2016, the administration is seeking comments from the general public on the matter. After taking that feedback into consideration, the agency may put forth more thorough guidelines on the word’s usage.

To provide your input, first read the F-D-A’s request for comment on the website federalregister.gov, then head over to regulations.gov to leave remarks. To find the appropriate pages on these sites, input the term “natural food” into the sites’ search bars.

Defining how terms can be used on packages of food, beverages, cosmetics and household supplies is a key part of ensuring consumer safety. It helps keep manufacturers in check and makes for a more educated public. After all, we all need to watch out for our own health. Understanding what you’re eating and bringing home is an important first step.

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