Our bodies need to receive good, natural nutrients as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, with as little overprocessed foods as possible. This is the case not just in humans, but all mammals, especially those that have been domesticated. For some people however, this has resonated into a complete aversion to any unnatural elements, with them avoiding anything deemed to be of chemical origin because they perceive it to be bad Chemophobia, as it’s named, has risen in recent times but has caused confusion as to what is natural and what it means in terms of food and nutrition
A Focus on Nature
You’ve probably noticed more and more products you buy have an emphasis on natural ingredients, with the insistence they are much better for us. Whilst this is true, this has created a fear in some people that chemicals that appear in our favourite products are harmful to our bodies. This can go as far as not just avoiding chemicals for themselves but also for their families, children and even their pets. Whilst the term chemophobia describes a fear of anything chemical, it more specifically refers to a distrust of synthetic and hazardous chemicals. These artificial chemicals such as additives in food, drugs, and pesticides are the main driver behind the focus on an all-natural diet. A survey from the Institute of Food Technologists showed 70% purchased organic food to avoid pesticides and 55% to avoid genetically modified foods. Many products will say ‘100% chemical free’, for example, or ‘no additives or unnatural flavourings. This can lead to an irrational line of thinking that these ingredients are completely bad for us.
Are all Chemicals Bad For Us?
As most people are aware, chemicals are everywhere from the air that we breathe to the food we consume. Not all chemicals are bad for us and many are processed through natural processes or extracted from plants. Caffeine for example is extracted from coffee beans, whilst aloe vera is extracted for cosmetics and medicine from the plant species. Molasses is used in both human and animal food products, but to some is considered unnatural despite coming from a plant as it is a by-product of refining sugar cane. These chemicals are natural and aren’t usually classed as artificial or hazardous to us. With consumers more conscious about plant-based eating and choosing less-processed foods, this has led to clearer labelling and extremes in the opinion of what is and isn’t natural.
Clear labelling for better choices
The good news is this has meant there is more power with the consumer on what we choose to use and put in our bodies. Whilst chemophobia is one extreme, for many this has been a focus on better nutrition and health all over. Even the products for our animals have benefited from these, from dog biscuits to cat and horse food, all having clearer labels and highlighting the nutritional benefits from improved behaviour to managing their weight. It’s never been easier to avoid certain ingredients if you want to thanks to clear labelling, but the by-product of this is the causing of irrational fears. Manufacturers are innovating their product ranges to cater for changing food attitudes, but as long as people stay informed, they can continue to learn about the benefits of natural chemicals.