Understanding Certification Labels: COSMOS Organic vs. COSMOS Natural vs. USDA Organic
As Ridings & Co. works towards achieving higher standards in beauty formulations, it’s essential to clarify the differences between COSMOS Organic, COSMOS Natural, and USDA Organic certifications.
Each label represents a unique commitment to quality and sustainability, but they differ significantly in their criteria and implications for brands like ours.
COSMOS Organic Certification
Definition: COSMOS Organic is a certification that guarantees products are made from at least 95% organic ingredients and follow strict ecological and ethical standards in their production.
Criteria:
Must contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients
Ingredients derived from natural sources must be processed in a way that preserves their integrity.
Comprehensive guidelines on sustainable sourcing and minimal environmental impact.
Benefits:
This certification assures consumers of the product’s purity, environmental responsibility, and adherence to high ethical standards.
COSMOS Natural Certification
Definition: COSMOS Natural is a less stringent certification, allowing for a broader range of ingredients that may not be organic but still meet specific safety and ethical criteria.
Criteria:
Requires a minimum of 95% natural ingredients, but organic content may be lower.
Less emphasis on organic farming practices compared to COSMOS Organic.
Benefits:
While still promoting natural formulations, it may not provide the same level of assurance regarding environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing as COSMOS Organic.
USDA Organic Certification
Definition: USDA Organic certification applies primarily to agricultural products and is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Criteria:
Requires at least 95% of agricultural ingredients to be certified organic.
Strict guidelines on pesticide use, soil quality, and environmental practices.
Benefits:
Recognized primarily in the U.S., this certification is well-known among consumers, offering a trusted assurance of organic integrity.
Why These Differences Matter for Ridings & Co.
As a regenerative grower and high-quality small-batch beauty brand, our goal is to push the boundaries of what clean beauty can be. Here’s how these certifications impact our mission:
Flexibility in Formulation
We want the freedom to innovate without being restricted by certification limitations. While USDA Organic certification is valuable, it may not encompass the full spectrum of our commitment to sustainability and quality.
By pursuing COSMOS Organic certification, we can ensure that our formulations remain at the forefront of clean beauty, following EU standards that prioritize holistic health for humans and the planet.
Commitment to EU Standards
Our adherence to European formulation processes and strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) from day one. The EU has some of the most rigorous standards for cosmetic safety and environmental impact, which align with our brand values.
This commitment means that we prioritize the health of our customers and the environment, going beyond what is typically required in the U.S.
Transparency and Trust
By clearly communicating the differences between these certifications, we empower our customers to make informed choices. They can trust that, regardless of the label, we are dedicated to providing the cleanest, most effective products possible.
Our focus on high-quality, small-batch production ensures that each product is crafted with care and attention to detail, further enhancing our credibility.
At Ridings & Co., navigating the complexities of certification labels is essential to our mission. By pursuing COSMOS Organic certification while adhering to EU standards and strict GMP, we ensure that our formulations are not limited but instead reflect our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. This appoach allows us to create products that are truly beneficial for humans, animals, and our planet.
