What Clean Label Means & Why It’s Important
Ever wondered what clean label means? Today I’m going to explain clean labels to help you understand why they are important and how they can make a meaningful difference for your health.
The term clean label refers to food products in the food industry whose ingredients are easily identifiable, without any artificial preservatives or additives. This means that a food product contains only natural ingredients, with no synthetic substances added.
The importance of clean labels goes beyond the obvious benefit of Consumer product safety is at the forefront of clean labels in food companies and products being consumed and used in today’s society. Research has uncovered the health consequences of food products covered in pesticide residue or exposure to metals that may pose health risks.
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The Clean Label Trend
The Clean Label Movement has influenced consumers to not only be more aware of the ingredients in the products they are buying but also has inspired many to choose a healthier lifestyle with significant benefits to their well-being.
Understanding the term “clean label” and its importance to your overall health is your first step on the path to a healthier lifestyle. The clean label concept is more than just an idea – it’s a major trend in the food industry, one that has the potential to change your life. So take the time to learn about clean labels and make sure you choose products with only natural ingredients for your health and wellbeing.
What is Clean Label?
Clean label is a term that is associated with food labeling and indicates that the food product does not contain certain ingredients or substances.
Another important factor in clean labeling is the simplicity of the products and/or fewer ingredients. For example, food labels listed as “sugar-free” or “no preservatives” are usually recognized as clean labels. And with the current trend of consumers searching for wholesome foods, supermarkets are answering the call for healthier choices.
From spices to mixes, frozen foods, dairy products, meats, and wines, consumers now have options to meet the growing demand for manufacturing products with clean labels. Food manufacturers are meeting the demand for clean-label products as part of a larger health movement that includes natural and organic ingredients, ethical sourcing, animal welfare and sustainability. Hence the reason the food label is so important.
Why Clean Label Is Important
Clean labels are important because they provide consumers with insight into what is actually in the food product. Although there may be more expensive options on the market, making sure that you get your money’s worth is important.
Clean labels strip away all the unnecessary ingredients, leaving you with a quality product that is free of harmful substances. Food science can easily determine what is and is not in our food and removing artificial ingredients and food additives are becoming more important.
No matter what type of food you’re buying, clean labels can help make sure that the products you’re consuming meet the highest standards for safety and quality. Clean label products also provide transparency in regards to how a product is made, which allows consumers to make informed decisions when it comes to their health and well-
The growing consensus among consumers reveals a global desire to understand food labels about healthier choices. As consumer demand for clean-label food grows we will be able to put better food ingredients into our meals and ensure the food we eat is free from additives.
Clean labeling Is Good For Your Family’s Health
Most consumers understand the need for products that are natural and many believe them to be healthier for them and the environment. Buying foods and products with clean labels contributes to an environmentally friendly world and ensures that you are getting healthier food with a natural flavor which is better for food safety.
How to Identify Clean Label Products
Be cautious of label words such as “natural” or “green” designed to get you to buy the product believing it’s a clean label. Read the ingredients in the product first and then research if you need more clarification about what you are buying.
Knowledge is power when it comes to identifying chemicals or other additives in foods that you may want to avoid. Look for products with the Green Seal which indicates that the product must pass certain standards to earn the badge. If you know what clean label means you will be able to easily identify the products with clean labels and make healthy choices for your family.
Clean Label Ingredients
Ingredients are also listed according to their weight in the product. Think about creamy hand lotions that claim to be infused with collagen. Take a look at that ingredient list and you’ll see water as the main ingredient. Collagen is usually listed last which means you’ll likely never notice the benefits of a collagen-infused hand lotion because the collagen was no more than a teaspoon, if that much.
And when it comes to food, read your ingredient list versus the nutrition label. The ingredient label will tell you what you are ingesting. Keep in mind, if it’s more than five to seven ingredients, you’ll might want to put it back.
Here are some important words to help you identify clean label ingredients:
- No artificial sweeteners
- No additives or Fillers
- No High Fructose Corn Syrup
- No preservatives
- Certified Organic
- BPA-Free
- No GMO
Focus On Whole Food Products
Whole food products are those that contain only one ingredient; no added ingredients or preservatives. These can be found in the produce section of your grocery store and include things like bananas, apples, oranges, carrots, etc.
Whole foods are the best way to get your nutrients as they have not been altered and you know exactly what is going into them. Whole foods are certainly clean label foods and are the best choices when it comes to nutrition.
Making clean label decisions isn’t complicated, and with a few adjustments to your grocery list you can rest assured that you are making healthier food choices for yourself and your family. Clean label is a term that has been around for some time now, but its importance is finally being recognized by consumers all over the world.
Choosing a Healthy Alternative
Learning to read product labels and understand what and how the ingredients in the product may affect you is the first step in choosing a healthy alternative to processed foods/products. Consider the aforementioned advice and tips on reading and interpreting clean labels and feel confident making healthier choices the next time you’re at the supermarket!
Cooking With Clean Label Products
We like to use clean label food products when cooking here at The Instant Pot Table. It is important to use quality ingredients that will not only add flavor and nutrients to your meal but will also keep you away from potentially harmful additives.
When possible, opt for fresh produce over canned or processed items. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber – all of which give our bodies the nourishment they need to function optimally. Here are some great recipes for you to make using clean label ingredients:
