What to Know About Preservatives in Baby Products
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The first five years of your little one’s life are pivotal in numerous ways, including their immune development. Their growing bodies make them particularly sensitive compared to adults. Yet all too often baby products contain synthetic chemical preservatives. Though intended to maintain “freshness,” chemical preservatives can also pose hidden risks ranging from skin irritation to more serious long term effects. When it comes to your baby’s health and nurturing their growing bodies, choosing wholesome options can help safeguard their delicate systems.
What are Preservatives and Why Are They Used?
Preservatives are used to keep perishable items from spoiling. By slowing the growth of things like bacteria, mold, or yeast, they help maintain a much longer shelf life. Ironically, many of the preservatives intended to enhance product safety are not always so safe themselves.
Are Chemical Preservatives Harmful for Babies?
The short answer: they very well can be.
Most baby formula, foods, and supplements contain some kind of preservative. This could be in the form of light pasteurization or air-tight containers. Naturally derived preservatives such as citric acid are widely used. Unfortunately, though, chemical preservatives have become increasingly common over the last few decades.
“Preservative” is rarely listed on an ingredient label. Instead, you’ll likely find unfamiliar and difficult to pronounce ingredients, such as sodium benzoate or potassium sorbet. Sodium benzoate is a chemical preservative commonly used to extend the shelf life of baby food and products. Though approved by the FDA in small doses, sodium benzoate has shown to increase inflammation in certain studies. Potassium sorbate is naturally derived. However, various research has found that in high doses, potassium sorbate can go beyond just causing irritation and upset — it can even cause abnormal changes in chromosomes and DNA.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes babies can be especially vulnerable when it comes to chemical preservatives. Their little bodies mean even small exposures may have more significant consequences, making it important to opt for safer, simpler ingredients when possible.
Choosing Preservative Free Baby Products
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing products for your little one.
- Check the ingredient label: opt for products that use straight-forward, recognizable ingredients.
- Stray away from unregulated, vague words such as “natural” or “pure.” They don’t mean anything.
- Keep an eye out for third party safety-testing and certifiers, such as USDA Organic which prohibits the use of artificial preservatives.
By focusing on clear ingredients and reliable certifications, you can navigate the endless products available with more confidence and peace of mind.
Clean Wellness Baby Solutions from Wellements
If you want truly clean, worry-free products for your baby, Wellements can be a great option. The certified organic products are third-party tested for safety, and are free of parabens, gluten, artificial flavors or colorings. And yes, they are also free of chemical preservatives. Staples such as Organic Vitamin D Drops and the Organic Vitamin C & Zinc Immune Support are completely free of unwanted chemicals. Even Wellements Organic Gripe Water keeps things wholesome by relying on a bit of lemon and a spot in the fridge.
Clean, simple ingredients take the guesswork out of what you're giving your little one. Prioritizing products free of chemical preservatives helps ensure your baby gets exactly what they need, and nothing they don’t.
