When you see the word “chemicals” does it turn you away from products? “Chemical free” on labels is attractive to many people, but is it real?
I was browsing in the BMO centre during Calgary Stampede and came across a vendor selling a jewelry cleaning solution; I was intrigued when they said it can clean costume jewelry. As a chemist, and owner of many rusty costume jewelry pieces, I was curious, so I asked, “What’s in this solution?”. The salesperson smiled and answered confidently, “No chemicals. Absolutely none.” I paused thinking of my chemistry ethics course. The instructor in the course showed us the following ingredient list:
The list looked intense with many acids, aldehydes, alcohols as well as names including phenyl, methyl, and ethyl. Believe it or not, the above list is the chemical components of organic blueberry with no additives, preservatives, or pesticides.
Now, let’s get back to the jewelry cleaner; no chemicals? Really? I don't think so. Unfortunately, the label didn't contain the list of ingredients, this is allowed for cleaning products; which, in my opinion is unfair to the consumer, but that’s a topic for another day!
The point is that chemicals are everywhere but are not necessarily bad. The air you breathe, water you drink, and the food you eat all contain chemicals. So instead of being afraid of any name that may sound intimidating; do your own research to find out what they are and what they do.
I do my own research for all the ingredients in my products and list them on all the labels. If you’re unsure or curious about any of them, please feel free to contact me, I look forward to talking chemicals with you!
Lena