In today’s market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right products. With so many options and bold claims on labels, how do you know what you’re really buying?
Empowering you to make informed choices
At INKY Ingredients, we believe that transparency and trust should be at the heart of every purchase decision. And we know that what goes into your products is important, so we want to share the knowledge that you need to make informed choices.
The rise of misleading claims
Many brands have started using buzzwords like ‘organic’, ‘natural’, or ‘sustainably sourced’ to appeal to consumers. But how often do these claims hold up to scrutiny?
The uncomfortable truth is that some companies take shortcuts, using vague terms or outright false claims to sell their products. Without proper certifications, these so-called ‘organic’ or ‘natural’ ingredients might not be what they seem.
We are here to help you protect yourself from these misleading practices by learning how to decode labels and question the claims, so that you can avoid falling for marketing gimmicks and make informed decisions.
What to look for in certifications
When looking for products, here are some key certifications and terms to keep an eye on:
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Certified Organic
Look for logos & certifications from reputable organisations like USDA Organic, Soil Association, or COSMOS. It is always a good idea to request their actual certification to ensure what you are buying is in fact organic. These certifications ensure the ingredient was produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or GMOs and follows stringent sustainability standards. Check the specs - if it doesn’t say organic, chances are the product you’re buying isn’t either!
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Fair Trade
This certification guarantees that the ingredients were sourced ethically, with fair wages and safe working conditions for farmers and workers.
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Cruelty-Free and Vegan
These certifications eg. Leaping Bunny or Vegan Society ensure that no animals were harmed in the making or testing of the product.
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Sustainability Certifications
Labels like RSPO (for sustainable palm oil) or Rainforest Alliance Certified demonstrate that ingredients are responsibly sourced with minimal impact on the environment.
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ISO or BRC Quality Certifications
These relate to a company’s adherence to quality management, environmental responsibility, and food safety standards.
Remember, true certifications are not self-awarded. They are granted by impartial, third-party organisations that uphold strict criteria. If a product doesn’t display an official logo or clear proof of accreditation, it’s worth questioning its claims.
Transparency is key
Certifications are just one aspect. It is equally important for companies to be transparent about its sourcing, processes, and practices. At INKY Ingredients, we take pride in being open with our customers. All our ingredients are traceable, and we’re committed to maintaining the highest standards for quality and sustainability.
Here’s what sets us apart:
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Certified Trust
Our ingredients are backed by eight internationally recognised certifications, highlighting our dedication to compliance, quality, and sustainability.
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Complete Traceability
We can trace our ingredients, ensuring it meets our rigorous standards for quality, ethics, and sustainability.
How can you be an educated consumer?
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Ask Questions
If a product claims to be ‘organic’ or ‘natural’, don’t hesitate to ask the company for proof. Reputable businesses will be happy to share their certifications and processes.
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Do Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the key certifications and what they stand for.
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Choose Transparent Brands
Support companies that are open about their sourcing and manufacturing practices. Transparency is a sign of integrity.
Join us in setting a higher standard…
At INKY Ingredients, we believe that you deserve products that are not only effective but also responsibly produced. By prioritising certifications and transparency, we’re committed to giving you peace of mind with every purchase. Together, we can set a higher standard for the industry – one that values trust, sustainability, and quality above all else.
So next time you shop, remember to look beyond the buzzwords. Question the claims, check the certifications, and choose brands that align with your values.
Please note that the views/opinions expressed in this blog are solely our own. It is the responsibility of our clients to conduct the necessary testing to substantiate any claims and ensure compliance with industry standards for every ingredient. We will not accept any liability for claims made based on our content.
