Glossary of Terms

Seed Oil-Free

Products labeled Seed Oil-Free do not contain industrially processed seed oils, which are often high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The seed oil list, also referred to as the "Hateful Eight," includes: canola oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, grapeseed oil, ricebran oil, safflower oil, soy oil and sunflower oil. The general term for any oil derived from plant seeds is vegetable oils. These seed oils have been linked to widespread inflammation and metabolic disorders due to their instability and tendency to oxidize during cooking or digestion.

No Added Hormones

This term indicates that animals used for meat or dairy production were not given synthetic hormones to promote growth or increase milk production. Note that hormones are naturally occurring in all living organisms, so this claim refers specifically to the absence of added hormones during the animal's lifecycle.

No Antibiotics

Products labeled No Antibiotics ensure that animals were never treated with antibiotics at any stage of their lives. This includes antibiotics used for therapeutic purposes or growth promotion. Such claims are regulated by the USDA and signify that the meat is free from antibiotic residues.

No Preservatives

The No Preservatives label means that no artificial substances were added to extend the product's shelf life or prevent spoilage. While preservative-free products may have a shorter shelf life, they are often perceived as more natural and free from chemical additives linked to potential health risks.

USDA Organic

The USDA Organic label signifies that a product meets strict standards for organic farming and production. This includes avoiding synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, and antibiotics, while ensuring humane animal treatment and ecological farming practices. Products bearing this label must adhere to comprehensive guidelines set by the USDA.

Non-GMO Verified

The Non-GMO Verified seal ensures that a product has been rigorously tested to confirm it does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This certification is ideal for consumers seeking products made without genetic engineering for health, ethical, or environmental reasons.