In light of the growing global trend toward food security and environmental sustainability, food-related terms such as “free from,” “organic,” and “natural” are frequently used on product labels and in marketing campaigns. But what does each of these terms mean? And what is their actual impact on our health and environment? This article explains the subtle differences between these terms and reveals their reality from a modern scientific perspective. First: What is the importance of these terms?
Today, transparency of nutritional information is one of the fundamental pillars for achieving food security and ensuring environmental sustainability. Conscious consumers seek to understand what they consume, not only from a health perspective, but also from an environmental and social standpoint. The relationship between consumers and food products:
Today’s consumers are more aware, but they are also more vulnerable to marketing deception. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between legally and scientifically approved terms and those used purely for commercial purposes without clear foundations.
What does the term “free from” mean?
The phrase “free from” is commonly used to indicate the absence of a specific ingredient that may trigger allergies or cause health concerns for some individuals.
1_Free from gluten: Used for individuals with gluten sensitivity.
2_Free from lactose: Suitable for people who are lactose intolerant.
3_Free from sugar: Indicates that the product contains less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving.
Regulatory conditions for using the phrase “free from”:
Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) set precise standards for the use of these terms on food products.
What is organic food?
Organic food is food that is produced without the use of industrial chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms.
Organic food standards:
To obtain the “organic” certification, the producer must adhere to:
1_Using only natural fertilizers such as compost.
2_Avoiding harmful chemical pesticides.
3_Raising animals without antibiotics or hormones.
What does the term “free from” mean?
The phrase “free from” is commonly used to indicate the absence of a specific ingredient that may trigger allergies or cause health concerns for some individuals.
Examples of “free from” products:
- Free from gluten: Used for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Free from lactose: Suitable for people who are lactose intolerant.
- Free from sugar: Indicates that the product contains less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving.
Regulatory conditions for using the phrase “free from”:
Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) set precise standards for the use of these terms on food products.
Are organic foods healthier?
Studies indicate that organic foods contain higher levels of antioxidants and certain nutrients, and have lower pesticide residues. However, there is no definitive scientific consensus that they are universally more beneficial to health than conventional foods. Organic food and environmental sustainability
Organic food production typically consumes fewer natural resources and generates lower carbon emissions, making it a contributing option to environmental sustainability.
What does the term “natural” mean?
The term “natural” is one of the most commonly used and least clearly defined. In many countries, there are no strict standards to determine whether a product is truly “natural.”
What is natural food supposed to mean?
- Absence of artificial additives or synthetic colors.
- Not excessively refined.
- Maintains a composition close to its original state.
The “natural” marketing trick
In some cases, the term “natural” is used loosely for marketing purposes, without the product having any added nutritional value. Therefore, it is always recommended to read the ingredients instead of relying on general phrases.
What is the relationship between these terms and food security?
Strengthening consumer trust
The more transparent products are and the more they adhere to international nutritional standards, the greater the consumer trust, which contributes to achieving sustainable food security.
Reducing health risks
By choosing products “free from” allergens or synthetic ingredients, the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can be reduced.
Supporting safe and local food systems
Organic and natural food is often produced locally, which strengthens local economies and reduces countries’ dependence on imports, thereby supporting national food security.
How do these choices support environmental sustainability?
- Reducing pesticide use: through the shift to organic farming.
- Limiting water and air pollution: as a result of reducing chemical fertilizers.
- Supporting biodiversity: by encouraging traditional and natural farming practices.
Tips for choosing safe and eco-friendly food:
1_Read labels carefully and look for trusted certifications such as USDA Organic or Bio.
2_Choose local products as much as possible to support the local economy and reduce carbon footprint.
3_Reduce consumption of ultra-processed foods and opt for simple ingredients.
4_Ask about product sources and production practices through stores or brand websites.
Although terms like “free from,” “organic,” and “natural” have become common, understanding them correctly requires real nutritional awareness and knowledge of approved standards. Your daily choices at the supermarket not only affect your health, but also shape the future of our planet. By adopting responsible consumer practices, we can build a food system that achieves food security and ensures environmental sustainability for future generations.
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