Dozens of common consumer products labeled “green,” “natural,” “organic,” and “non-toxic” are simply not, a new analysis shows.
The findings, by a University of Melbourne environmental specialist, indicate many products marketed to health-conscious consumers release numerous volatile compounds that could harm human health and air quality.
What’s more, most of these ingredients are not disclosed on product labels and can pose a particular risk in indoor environments, where they can build to dangerous levels,
Medical Xpress reports.
"The paradox is that most of our exposure to air pollutants occurs indoors and a primary source is consumer products,” noted researcher Anne Steinemann, an engineering professor and expert on environmental pollutants, air quality, and health effects. “But the public lacks full and accurate information on the ingredients in these products.
“Our indoor air environments are essentially unregulated and unmonitored."
To reach her conclusions, Steinemann examined volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from 37 different products, such as air fresheners, cleaning products, laundry supplies, and personal care products, including those with certifications and claims of being “green.”
The study, published in the journal Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, found:
- 156 different VOCs emitted from the 37 products.
- The typical product released an average of 15 VOCs; every product released at least one.
- 42 of the VOCs are classified as toxic or hazardous under US federal laws.
- In total, over 550 volatile ingredients were emitted from these products, but fewer than three percent were disclosed on any product label.
- The most common chemicals were terpenes, which react with ozone in the air to generate formaldehyde, fine particles, and other pollutants
© 2026 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.