What qualifies as all natural? Deciphering food labels for a healthier diet

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is no formal definition for the term “natural” for food labeling, which can lead to consumer confusion. This lack of federal regulation means that what qualifies as all natural can vary significantly from one food product to another, often serving more as a marketing tactic than a guarantee of a product’s quality or health benefits.

Quick Summary

This article explores the lack of a legal definition for "natural" on food labels in the US. It breaks down current FDA and USDA policies, explains the significant difference between "natural" and certified "organic," and provides practical steps for consumers to evaluate products and make more informed dietary choices.

Key Points

• No Federal Definition: The FDA has no formal, enforceable definition for the term “natural,” leaving its use on most food products largely unregulated.

• Misleading Marketing: Because of the lack of regulation, companies can use “natural” as a marketing buzzword, often misleading consumers into believing a product is healthier than it is.

• Organic vs. Natural: Unlike 'natural,' 'organic' is a strictly regulated and certified label, with specific rules concerning farming practices, synthetic additives, and GMOs.

• USDA's Minimal Standard: For meat, poultry, and egg products, the USDA defines “natural” as minimally processed with no artificial ingredients or added colors, but this does not cover farm animal practices.

• Consumer Action: To determine a product's true quality, consumers should ignore vague “natural” claims and instead focus on reading the ingredients list, checking for organic certifications, and looking for other signs of transparency.

• Natural Isn't Always Healthier: A "natural" food can still be high in sugar, fat, or sodium, and the term does not guarantee a product's nutritional value.

• Look for Certifications: For assurance, look for third-party certifications like the USDA Organic seal, which verify a product has met specific, verifiable standards.

Navigating the 'All Natural' Label: An Ambiguous Promise

For many consumers, the term “all natural” on a food product suggests purity, health, and ethical production. However, the term remains largely undefined by the FDA, allowing food manufacturers considerable flexibility. This ambiguity can lead consumers to believe they are purchasing a healthier product when the label offers no such assurance.

FDA's Informal Stance on 'Natural'

The FDA has not established a formal definition for “natural”. Their informal policy states that nothing artificial or synthetic, including color additives, should be in or added to a food that isn't normally expected. This policy does not cover:

• Food production methods (e.g., pesticide use).
• Processing techniques (e.g., irradiation).
• Nutritional benefits.

This means products labeled “all natural” can still be heavily processed or contain pesticides if added ingredients aren't considered artificial or synthetic by the FDA's narrow view.

USDA's Defined Standard for Meat and Poultry

The USDA has a more specific definition for meat, poultry, and egg products. Under USDA rules, "natural" products must have no artificial ingredients, no added colors, and be minimally processed. Minimal processing is defined as not fundamentally altering the raw product. A brief explanatory statement, such as “minimally processed, no artificial ingredients,” is also required on the label. However, this definition doesn't regulate farm practices like antibiotic or hormone use.

The Critical Distinction: Natural vs. Organic

Many consumers mistakenly believe "natural" and "organic" are the same. However, 'organic' is a strictly regulated and certified standard, unlike 'natural'. Here is a comparison:

Feature	'Natural' Label	'Organic' Label (USDA Certified)
Regulation	Not formally defined by the FDA; USDA has minimal rules for meat/poultry.	Federally regulated by the USDA with strict standards for farming and processing.
Pesticide Use	Does not prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides or herbicides.	Prohibits the use of most synthetic pesticides and fertilizers; only allows specific natural alternatives.
Genetic Modification	Does not restrict the use of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).	Forbids the use of GMOs in production.
Additives	Generally means no artificial colors or synthetic substances, but varies by manufacturer.	Prohibits artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Animal Practices	USDA standards for meat/poultry do not regulate farm practices (antibiotics, hormones).	Requires livestock to be fed 100% organic feed and prohibits antibiotics or growth hormones.
Certification	No third-party certification is required or involved.	Requires rigorous, documented certification and regular inspections by an accredited body.

How to Identify a Truly Natural Product

Since 'natural' is often a marketing term, consumers should focus on the ingredient list and nutrition facts instead of relying on the label claim.

• Scrutinize Ingredients: Look for short, simple ingredient lists with recognizable items. Chemical names or artificial additives likely indicate a marketing ploy.
• Look for Transparency: Reputable brands provide details on sourcing and production. Engaging with local farmers can also provide clarity.
• Be Wary of Buzzwords: Unregulated terms like “farm fresh” are often meaningless without certifications.
• Seek Certified Organic: For the highest verification standard, look for certified organic seals like the USDA Organic seal, which ensures adherence to strict farming and processing standards.

Conclusion

The “all natural” label is a popular marketing tool that appeals to consumer desires for healthier food. However, the lack of a clear, consistent definition from federal agencies means it is an unreliable indicator of product quality. While the USDA offers some regulation for meat and poultry, it doesn't cover broader aspects of production that consumers associate with 'natural'. Consumers must be diligent, examining ingredient lists, nutrition facts, and official certifications like 'organic' to assess a product's true nature. Understanding this difference empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your health goals, rather than being swayed by potentially misleading marketing. Informed choices based on tangible evidence and clear regulations are essential for a genuinely nutritious diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does "all natural" mean a product is free of artificial colors and flavors?

Not necessarily. While the FDA’s informal policy suggests that nothing artificial or synthetic should be added to a natural product, the term is not formally regulated. This ambiguity can allow some manufacturers to use ingredients that consumers would consider artificial, even if they aren't labeled that way by the FDA.

What is the key difference between "natural" and "organic" food?

The main difference is regulation. “Organic” is a legally defined and certified term governed by the USDA, with strict standards for production methods, including prohibiting synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs. "Natural," in contrast, is not legally defined for most foods and lacks consistent oversight.

Are "all natural" products always healthier than conventional ones?

No. The "all natural" label is not a guarantee of a product's nutritional value. A product labeled "natural" can still be high in sugar, fat, or sodium. It is important to read the full nutrition facts panel to determine a product's healthfulness.

Does the USDA regulate "natural" claims?

The USDA specifically regulates the use of the term "natural" for meat, poultry, and egg products. For these items, "natural" means minimally processed and containing no artificial ingredients or added color. However, this definition does not cover farm practices like antibiotic or hormone use.

Can products labeled "all natural" contain GMOs?

Yes, products with an "all natural" label can contain GMOs, as the term does not restrict their use. To ensure a product is non-GMO, consumers should look for specific non-GMO certifications or buy certified organic products, which prohibit the use of GMOs.

How can I tell if a product is truly natural without a legal definition?

The best way is to read the ingredients list carefully. Look for short lists with recognizable ingredients. Be wary of products with long lists of chemical names, artificial colors, or additives. Seeking out certified organic products is another reliable method.

Why is the "all natural" label so commonly used if it's unregulated?

The term is used because it is a powerful marketing tool. Consumers often perceive products labeled as "natural" to be of higher quality and healthier, and research shows this perception influences their purchasing decisions. Since it costs little to apply this label, manufacturers capitalize on this consumer bias.