VOCs, Endocrine Disruptors & Why Organic Standards Matter
Walk down any supermarket aisle and you’ll see words like natural, clean, green, and organic. But behind the marketing language are real chemical differences that matter, especially when it comes to VOCs and endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Let’s unpack what these are, how they affect the body, and why certified organic standards provide a meaningful layer of protection.
What Are VOCs?
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature. That “fresh scent” from a cleaning spray or a new car interior? Often VOCs.
Common Sources
- Cleaning sprays and disinfectants
- Air fresheners and scented candles
- cosmetics and personal care products
- laundry detergent (cloths dried indoors)
Why They Matter
Because VOCs become airborne, they are easily inhaled. Once inhaled, they pass from the lungs into the bloodstream.
Short-term exposure may cause:
- Headaches
- Irritated eyes and throat
- Dizziness
- Worsening asthma
Long-term exposure depending on the compound and dose can affect:
- Liver and kidney function
- The nervous system
- Cancer risk (some VOCs like benzene are classified carcinogens)
- Not all VOCs are equally harmful. But indoor air can concentrate them, especially in tightly sealed homes.
What Are Endocrine Disruptors?
Your endocrine system is your body’s hormone control centre. Hormones regulate:
- Growth and development
- Fertility
- Metabolism
- Mood
- Immune function
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with this delicate signalling system.
EDCs can, mimic hormones (eg. act like estrogen), Block hormone receptors, and alter hormone production or breakdown.
Because hormones work at extremely low concentrations, even small exposures particularly during pregnancy and childhood may have outsized biological effects.
Some common culprits are Phthalates – often hidden within “fragrance” Parabens – preservatives used in some cosmetics and certain synthetic pesticides
Importantly, not all endocrine disruptors are VOCs — but some compounds can fall into both categories.
Why Certified Organic is safer
When a product is certified organic under regulated standards (such as ACO/COSMOS in Australia or equivalent international frameworks, it must meet strict criteria.
1. Synthetic Pesticides Are Restricted or Prohibited
Organic agriculture excludes most synthetic pesticides and herbicides. This reduces pesticide residue exposure in food and botanical ingredients.
2. Petrochemical Solvents & Synthetic Fragrances Are Not alowed
Many conventional products contain undisclosed fragrance blends that may include phthalates. Certified organic standards prohibit these.
3. Stronger Ingredient Traceability
Organic certification requires documented sourcing, audits, and supply chain verification. That reduces contamination risk and increases transparency.
4. Lower Chemical Load Over Time
While conventional products are regulated and usually within safety thresholds, cumulative exposure from multiple products is still an area of active scientific research. Organic standards aim to reduce overall chemical burden.
“Natural” does not automatically mean “safe.” But certification changes the equation. It’s not about fear, it’s about systematic exclusion of higher-risk synthetic chemicals, reduced reliance on petrochemicals, and independent auditing. So remember:
- Choose products without synthetic fragrance
- Improve indoor ventilation
- Prioritise Certified Organic where possible
- Read full ingredient lists, not just front labels
Small reductions across multiple categories can meaningfully lower overall exposure.
We are exposed to thousands of chemicals daily, through air, food, water, and skin contact. Most are regulated. Many are considered safe at specific doses. But long-term cumulative exposure, especially during critical life stages can cause halm.
Certified Organic reduces the risk!
