Beyond Labels: How to Truly Identify Natural and Ethical Products

In today’s conscious consumer age, words like “natural,” “organic,” “cruelty-free,” and “eco-friendly” have become buzzwords plastered across supermarket shelves and Instagram ads. But dig a little deeper, and a question surfaces—how genuine are these claims? Are we truly buying ethical and chemical-free products, or just clever marketing in biodegradable wrappers?

The reality is: greenwashing is rampant. Brands have realized that customers care, and instead of walking the talk, some are simply talking it louder. That’s why going beyond the label has become essential for anyone genuinely invested in sustainable, holistic living.

1. Understanding the Difference: “Natural” vs “Naturally Derived” vs “Organic”

Not all ‘natural’ labels are created equal.

·        Natural can mean it once came from a plant—but might now be heavily processed.

·        Naturally Derived usually means the ingredient started natural but went through chemical changes.

·        Organic means the ingredient was grown without pesticides or synthetic inputs—but unless it’s certified, this can also be misleading.

👉 Look for specifics, not general terms. Instead of “contains natural extracts,” ask: What extract? How much? Is it processed?

2. Read the Ingredient List Like a Detective

Flip the product. Don’t stop at front labels—go straight to the ingredient list.

·        Ingredients are listed in order of quantity. If the so-called natural ingredient is 10th on the list, it’s likely just there for show.

·        Watch out for synthetic fillers like parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, and artificial fragrances.

·        Learn to spot real heroes: neem, turmeric, aloe vera, cow ghee, coconut oil, shikakai, reetha, basil, etc.

💡 Pro-tip: If it sounds like a chemistry lab formula, it probably is.

3. Go Beyond Cruelty-Free Logos

Many products wear “cruelty-free” like a badge of honor. But did you know:

·        Some logos are self-declared.

·        Others may apply only to finished products—not ingredients.

·        Certain countries still mandate animal testing for imported goods.

Look for globally trusted certifications like PETA's cruelty-free bunny, Leaping Bunny, or India's own ethical vetting groups. Even better, buy from brands that don’t just claim but explain their ethics.

4. Evaluate Packaging and Sourcing

A truly ethical product doesn’t just care about ingredients—it cares about the planet and people behind them.

·        Is the packaging recyclable, compostable, or reusable?

·        Does the brand support local artisans or farmers, or is it another mass-market product with a green face?

·        Are their ingredients sustainably harvested and responsibly sourced, or are they part of the exploitation cycle?

These questions are not nitpicking—they’re part of ethical consumption.

5. Introducing the Garuda Marketplace

While many online stores prioritize convenience and flashy packaging, The Garuda Marketplace prioritizes clarity, community, and cultural integrity.

We don’t just sell products—we curate heritage. Every item listed on Garuda Marketplace is vetted not only for its chemical-free formulation but also for its origin, process, and impact.

🌿 Our promise:

·        Products made using ancient Indian wisdom, Ayurvedic practices, and eco-conscious methods.

·        Handcrafted items from rural and tribal artisans.

·        Transparent sourcing, no synthetic shortcuts, and meaningful packaging that tells a story.

·        Desi cow-based Panchagavya products, herbal wellness, chemical-free skincare, natural cleaning agents, and more—all designed to nurture without harm.

With Garuda, you don’t need a magnifying glass. You need trust, and we give you plenty of reasons to believe.

6. Ask Questions. Read Reviews. Stay Curious.

Being an ethical buyer means being an active one.

·        Don’t hesitate to ask brands questions. Ethical ones will answer openly.

·        Read real customer reviews—they often reveal truths that labels hide.

·        Follow the trail—who makes the product? Where? How? That story matters.

Consumerism is no longer passive.

Today, curiosity is the new currency of conscious living.