All opinions expressed below are my own, and are that, MY opinion.
It was recently brought to my attention that Ava Anderson Non-Toxic (AANT) has reformulated the products that contained Geogard Ultra as a preservative, and replaced it with radish root ferment. This is without a doubt great news in my book! Less families being exposed to sodium benzoate in multiple products daily is fabulous, especially since many didn’t realize they were being exposed to it as the name Geogard Ultra didn’t truthfully disclose the 2 ingredients being used (sodium benzoate & gluconolactone). So, time to move them back to my best-of-the-best list, right? No. In the past year or so, numerous issues have come up with these products that I have a great deal of mistrust in them: the products, the labels, and the company. I’m not going to repeat the allegations, which would make a very long list, as there’s a chance some of them are not true, and I don’t want to slander anyone without having proof of said allegations. I can tell you the allegations are numerous, concerning, and I do happen to believe many of them. So, what are the facts? Most recently this issue arose which really, really bothers me: they launched a line of essential oils & claimed they were certified organic. Immediately I, and many others, commented on their wall asking how this was possible, here’s how that played out:
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RemoveAva Anderson Non Toxic Hi Jessica, we do not have the USDA certification on our products but all of our organic ingredients have always been certified! smile emoticon -
RemoveAva Anderson Non Toxic We chose not to have the seal on our products as it is very expensive and really all it gets you is lots of paperwork, it also doesn’t require 100% of ingredients to be safe so we have seen multiple cases of products with the seal that we would not use or recommend and therefore we always go back to “at Ava Anderson, it’s all about the ingredients” happy to answer any other questions you have! smile emoticon
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RemoveAva Anderson Non Toxic http://tilth.org oregon tilth is one of our certifiers of our organic ingredients smile emoticon
OK. I could go on & on about this issue, their response is infuriating. They are NOT certified by the Oregon Tilth, or any other certifying body. It’s an outright lie. They’re willing to let the companies they purchase from go through the expense & paperwork to be certified, but they themselves don’t feel it worth it. You know how much it would cost them to get certified? Without knowing exactly what they make each year, by all accounts it’s millions of dollars, the CAP for companies making $5,000,000+ is $10,500. You’re telling me that’s considered expensive to a multi-million dollar company? One whose owners are independently wealthy to boot? As I said, I could go on & on. To make a long story short, several people asked about who their certifier was. Every, single comment raising any question about this issue was hidden or deleted. I’ve also been told by former Ava reps that even internally, in their closed private groups any question regarding ingredient sources, the lack of organic certification, etc are immediately removed. Without the USDA certification, there is NO guarantee whatsoever that they’re using the best organic ingredients on the market, or that they’re even organic at all. There’s NO oversight without that certification.
Update on Essential Oil issue, I was right, they were in violation of the USDA regulations: 12/2015: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/2015/12/15/ava-anderson-their-not-so-certified-organic-eos/
Past issues that lead to me being wary of their claims: Many felt their diaper cream contained zinc oxide, but the label didn’t list it. Turns out eventually they did come out & say “oops, yes, there is zinc oxide in there, but don’t worry, it’s just a small amount”, and then they added it to the label. Of course since they don’t make the products themselves they were able to pin it on the manufacturer & take no personal responsibility whatsoever. Why does this matter: What if your child was deathly allergic to zinc oxide, Zinc oxide is not cloth diaper safe, as it repels water, and we as the consumer have the right to know every, single ingredient in our products. So, this is where the trust issue comes into play. As with the CA baby reformulation scandal (Google the term if you’re unfamiliar with that), once something like this happens, my trust in the company & products is lost forever, and CA Baby will forever remain on my Greenwashers list due to that.
The company says they can’t afford to become certified organic, even though the Anderson’s are an independently wealthy family not in this for them money (relayed to me by Ava’s Mom Kim when we still had open lines of communication), just in it to make the world a better place. They have posted erroneous info on their FB page in the past trying to degrade the USDA certified label, until being called out on their mistruths & removing the posts. I’ve received several messages from people telling me they heard from an Ava rep that only 60% organic ingredients are needed for the USDA label, and that’s what Poofy uses, where AANT uses 100% organic ingredients, they just don’t feel the need for certification. This is all COMPLETELY wrong, and it seriously irritates me that such lies are being spread. There are much, much smaller lines on my best-of-the-best list that have made it a priority, and are affording it. I, and many others believe AANT could never become certified organic as several of the products are not truthfully disclosing what is honestly, actually in them, many of the ingredient lists just don’t add up. And this is not just my opinion, this has been expressed to me by many different sources, many who are making their own similar products and are extremely knowledgeable about ingredients & what it takes to make a product work. After reading thousands of ingredient labels myself, I agree, things like the bubble bath, dish soap just don’t add up to being the effective product many rave about. Many have alleged there’s no way they’re using Essential Oils as the labels state. I’ve heard from certified aromatherapists who share the opinion that the products contain synthetic fragrance oils.
I really, honestly think someday these products will be tested and, just like the diaper cream, be found to contain additional ingredients not listed. If I had the time or knowledge how to go about initiating this process myself, I would love to. I know there are many of you who love this line, and think it’s all it says it is. I know many will feel I have some grudge against these products, some ulterior motive, and that is not the case, but I understand why you might think that, and that’s OK with me. I have nothing to gain by where they fall on my list, just my own ethics & morals to protect. I have several lines on my “best” list that are not certified organic: Fiddlebump’s, Josiah’s Oils, MamaSuds, Simply Rustic, all of which are Work-from-home-Mom operations, and although they are using almost exclusively organic ingredients, I would never expect them to become certified. But, a line like Ava Anderson has absolutely no excuse not to, unless they have something to hide, which I believe they do. Please, prove me wrong, get your line certified, and you’ll move up to my Best-of-the-Best list. The fact that their products are NOT certified organic, and are twice as much as many products that ARE certified is secondary, if you are willing to pay twice as much, that’s up to you. Which line IS certified organic? Poofy Organics. Truly the best of the very best on the market, certified by the USDA, with absolutely no ingredients of concern. Please, do yourself & your family a favor & ask some serious questions, and do some comparing of the 2 lines, I’m pretty certain you’ll come to the same conclusions I have. Here are several past threads, if you have a few hours to spare reading all the comments, I think they’ll help shed light on my position. I hope this all makes sense, and I hope to be proven wrong.
Additional info I hope you’ll take the time to read, from a different source:
https://gogreenct.wordpress.com/2012/06/05/my-fda-complaint-against-ava-anderson-nontoxic/
******If interested in joining me selling a USDA CERTIFIED organic, affordable line with 400+ products that I have 100% trust & faith in, please read this. I share it here because many of you who read the above info are looking to work from home selling a line you can have 100% faith in, and in my option, that is NOT Ava Anderson, so I think it’s only fair to provide an alternative: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/2014/07/16/ready-to-work-from-home-join-team-eco-poofy-usa/
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Eco-Friendly Mama: Safe product recommendations with a focus on organic and Made in USA! 
Apr 21, 2015 @ 19:53:29
This makes me crazy. I am trying so hard to do the right thing by my family but feel like I am navigating crazy waters. How can I figure out what products are the best for my baby???
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Jun 22, 2015 @ 20:50:55
See my approved list: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/safe-products/
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Apr 22, 2015 @ 20:53:25
I just wanted to respond to a statement in this article: “Without the USDA certification, there is NO guarantee whatsoever that they’re using the best organic ingredients on the market, or that they’re even organic at all.”
Unfortunately, even with this certification there is no guarantee. For example, a farmer gets his farm certified (which means filling out paperwork and paying a fee). After the initial certification is approved there may be no one checking to see that the products coming out of that farm are continuing to meet the organic standard. My father is a farmer, and he knows a man who sells his non-organic grain under a friend’s farm name in order to get a higher price. He has also seen the people accepting grain at the facility where farmers sell it dumping non-organic grain into the “organic” bin, because the other one was full!
As you can see, you can only trust these certification so far. Of course, I would rather choose something with one of the organic certifications over something without, and hope that most people are being truthful. But I can see how some companies just see it as another money grab and would rather just try to produce healthy and safe products, and have their conscience be their guide.
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Jun 09, 2015 @ 20:14:20
I have friends with a certified organic apple orchard. Yes, in addition to doing hundreds of pages of paperwork annually & paying the fee, they DO get random inspections. They have a certified kitchen for making jams/jellies, they have had a random inspection multiple times. If the inspector walks in & sees a single non-organic ingredient in there they can lose their certification. It is not JUST paperwork. It really means something! The paperwork has to add up, how much they made of each product, how much they bought in ingredients from the 5 or so USDA approved vendors. This leaves no room for, say, using fragrance oils instead of Essential Oils, as many of us know Ava Anderson is indeed doing.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 19:25:41
N Bear, it is IMPOSSIBLE to fool a certification company for long. That is why companies are constantly having their USDA certifications taken away. The process is extremely detailed and the 3rd-party certifier uses various methods to track usage of organic ingredients including using the detailed records of the company. Ingredient purchase MUST equal ingredient usage. Every company is inspected annually including surprise inspections. If they are cheating they WILL get caught.
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May 09, 2015 @ 03:13:32
These days when it says certified by the USDA isn’t always believable either. It is still the government and we know they aren’t always truthful either. I am glad to find out about some new companies that are organic so I can look into them. Thank you for the time and energy to check things out.vosh3
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 19:23:45
Pam, a company does not receive its certification from the government. They receive their certification by a 3rd-party certifier who is a private organization dedicated to carrying out the RULES that the government sets forth.
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May 20, 2015 @ 17:40:44
Thank you for all the info. I was curious about how they were certified, if they were. I liked the line and thought it was great they were trying to spread the message of harmful products along the way, but it seems as though they are cutting corners in negative ways and that is disappointing. I did see at one point they had changed the ingredient list on the diaper cream and it does put up a red flag since it was not listed before and I could swear it was in it. Is there anymore updates on this?
Thanks for all you do, very helpful!
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May 24, 2015 @ 13:57:18
Hi there. Your link to this post in your post on all the lines isn’t working. Thanks for this!!
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Jun 09, 2015 @ 20:23:29
Sorry, I updated the post & forgot to update the links, here’s the current: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/personal-carecleaning-master-list/
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Jun 07, 2015 @ 13:31:54
I used to be an Ava Anderson rep. I immediately questioned their labeling, as they eluded to the fact that their FRAGRANCE oils are ESSENTIAL oils. Absolutely untrue. When I questioned, I was assured the labeling would be changed. It wasn’t. I do like the products, but the integrity is not there.
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Jun 09, 2015 @ 15:13:25
That is great to know & is something MANY, MANY have brought up, but I’ve never known them to admit that they were indeed using fragrance oils, they’ve denied it to my knowledge! If they’re lying about one thing, how can we trust them on anything else?
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Jun 18, 2015 @ 03:06:52
I really would like to believe that I can trust these statements you have made but it’s just so hard to when you are pushing your own line of organic products in the same post. It seems as though now that the company is getting bigger people are trying to knock it down. Why is it necessary to become certified as a brand if the ingredients being used are already certified by their suppliers? That is one part I’m confused on.
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Jun 22, 2015 @ 20:29:52
Have you seen those certificates from their suppliers with your own eyes? I haven’t. How is it possible that a huge, wealthy company like Ava Anderson claims it’s cost prohibitive for them to become certified, when many smaller companies are doing so, and there is a CAP on the cost, it would cost them a few thousand dollars/year, yet they can’t afford that? Yes, of course they can. I, and MANY, believe they could NEVER BECOME certified because they are not disclosing all ingredients on the labels. PLEASE, look at the dish soap & tell me how it makes the amazing bubbles it does? There is not a single glucoside listed, which is what makes soap bubble. That is one example, I could list several more. It’s fine if you feel this is the best company on the planet. I disagree, and you have no idea how many people THANK me for this post, as they too feel that many things just don’t add up. But, without the certification, that will never come to light. There is absolutely no oversight without the certification.
I share a link to the Poofy info as people often google “ava Anderson vs Poofy Organics” when they are trying to decide which to join, and I want them to have all the info to make the best decision for their family.
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Jan 25, 2016 @ 22:01:00
I agree. Your statements don’t hold much power when at the end you are pushing your own product. Give me a break. As consumers, we all need to be aware of what is going on in our society. Ava is NOT the only company that has dealt with issues of “missing ingredients” on their lists. Why not be fair and investigate the other companies as well, instead of trying to just bash your competition. Awareness is the key, whether you use Ava or not.
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Jan 25, 2016 @ 23:33:38
You think I’m going to stop here? No way. If you have a list of companies that have ingredient lists that absolutely don’t add up, please share, I’ll be on it. I’ve been reviewing products & companies for 4 years now, I’ve not come across one that is nearly as shady as this one was. Please fill me in…. Exactly what am I pushing in the article?!
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Jun 19, 2015 @ 12:51:51
What a load of crap and I am so tired of bloggers creating so called “educational blogs” when clearly you are promoting your own company (i.e.: Poufy Organics). Unfortunately more people will believe your information vs. research it for themselves and they won’t see you only want them to buy the product you sell. What a real unethical drag.
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Jun 19, 2015 @ 12:52:58
And I’m sure I won’t see MY comment appear on your blog – how very convenient eco friendly mama. I just find it super sad that you are being manipulative like this. I truly hope you would consider removing this entire post…karma!
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Jun 22, 2015 @ 20:25:06
Just adding both your comments now. They don’t show up in my inbox like they used to, but in my ‘social’ folder which quickly buries them. I’m a firm believer in karma myself, and believe the day will come soon that Ava Anderson will have karma come back on them 1,000,000 fold. I’m super, duper proud of my work & spreading the messages I do every day about the safest products on the market. Manipulative? What a joke. I know it’s hard to read things you disagree with, but that doesn’t make my statements untrue. Why would I remove this post? That would be ridiculous!
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Jun 22, 2015 @ 20:40:16
How quick to jump to conclusions. I had a very busy weekend & don’t sit here waiting for comments to pop up. Just getting caught up while my 2 little one’s nap. I’m happy to approve your comment so others can see the type of comments I get from Ava supporters. Karma is right!
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Jul 01, 2015 @ 03:14:09
I am grateful this article is here. I have been doing research because I too wondered why Ava Anderson Non Toxic didn’t have a certification. Last week when I was introduced to Ava’s Products I thought I had found an answer to every questionable product I once owned, until I started to wonder why there was no certification. I saw that there was extensive ingredients that were ‘organic’ but can’t seem to find a label. I’m glad this article is here because it makes me feel sane knowing I’m not the only one who questions everything in order to find the right thing. Looks like I will continue to make my own products at home like I have been doing. It’s the safest way to know what’s in there.
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Jul 01, 2015 @ 19:25:57
Hi Mel! Thanks for your comments, I’m so thrilled to know others are asking the tough questions as well, and believe me I do hear from many such as yourself who do value the organic certification & the oversight it provides! I too make many of my own products, but many who live very busy lives don’t have the time or desire to do so, which is why I’m thrilled to have a pretty extensive “approved” list covering all the needs one could have for their home & body.
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Jun 22, 2015 @ 20:22:48
I’m just seeing this now & my #1 motto is do your own research. Please do! Please spend years reading labels as I have & if you come to a different conclusion that’s great! Did you look at my ‘approved’ list which has a dozen+ companies that I’m very happy to support & promote, doesn’t sound like it. Anger is a typical reaction when you read something you don’t like, I understand that.
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Jul 01, 2015 @ 03:19:40
I don’t plan on buy any product which was mentioned here. She didn’t twist my arm, she only educated me on a question I have been trying to find an answer to for a few days. I was looking to see if Ava Anderson Non Toxic had a certification for using “organic” ingredients in their products. She gave me insight on a burning question. I’m also curious to know if their Palm Oil is sustainable seeing I avoid products with that in it. The Orangoutang are a very important part of their habitat. Palm Oil is destroying their lives.
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Jul 01, 2015 @ 19:26:39
I’m curious about the palm oil too, if anyone has more info on the sourcing of that I’d love to know!
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Jul 01, 2015 @ 20:46:56
This comment should have been in response or reply to a post from Liz in June. I don’t know why it was at the bottom of the page.
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Jul 06, 2015 @ 11:48:58
I question the integrity of any company that creates a blog to bash another line in order to sell their own. I believed you at first, and am so glad I read to the bottom of your post where you suddenly say, “if you want the best, sell Poofy.” Definitely not unbiased in my opinion. I’m also glad I did additional research and came across several blog posts on Baby Center about how you are the good friend of the Poofy’s founder, and yes, certainly do have a hidden agenda, as well as a personal grudge against Ava Anderson, specifically. I also researched Environmental Working Group’s site and found that some of the ingredients you use are not the safest. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/company/Poofy_Organics/
I’m doubtful this will make the page, but I do hope that you include it for others like myself who are looking for an OBJECTIVE opinion, which this most certainly is not. And yes, I decided to go with Ava Anderson products, and yes, it was after reading this blog (and the other Baby Center posts that talk about it). To be honest, I’m trying other lines, too, but specifically avoiding Poofy because of your questionable business ethics and tactics.
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Jul 06, 2015 @ 13:16:57
I’m happy to include it Jill. For the record, I have never met Kristina, the owner of Poofy, so to say we’re “friends” is a bit of a stretch as I really don’t consider someone I’ve never met my friend… And yes, I do have a grudge against AANT, a HUGE one, for all the issues outlined in this article. I feel they’re duping their customers & they bash the organic certification but are trying to cater to the organic crowd at the same time. I was banned from the AANT FB page after asking tough questions they couldn’t answer, and they continue to hide any post, question, comment that isn’t positive on their page every day! After 2 years of using Poofy products daily & recommending them on my Fb page without making a cent, I decided I might as well make some income for what I was already doing. I understand you think I’m a bad person for doing so, but I could not be happier with my decision & only wish I’d officially became a Guide sooner. https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/2014/06/16/my-decision-to-become-a-diva-with-poofy-organics/
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Jul 06, 2015 @ 13:20:20
Also, while I use EWG a lot, it’s not perfect. Poofy lists every, single ingredient in every, single product. There are NO unspecified anything, that’s a flaw in EWG’s database. I hope you find a line you’re happy with!
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Jul 06, 2015 @ 13:23:08
One last thing 🙂 The reason I include that at the bottom (the link to the Poofy info) is because many people find me by Googling “Ava Anderson vs Poofy Organics” so that post comes back. It’s one of the most frequently viewed blog posts I’ve written, and I average 500 visits to my page daily. In general, the feedback is 99.9% positive, people actually thank me for the info I’m sharing, can you believe it? But occasionally I get a response such as yours, and I’m fine with it! If you’re fine with the issues surrounding Ava Anderson & would ignore the safest line on the market that is USDA certified (the USDA would never allow for ‘unspecified flavor/oils), then we obviously have different criteria for what’s best for our family. And interesting on the Baby Center info, I’ll have to check that out!
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Jul 07, 2015 @ 17:37:04
Oh, someone on Baby Center pointed out this specific blog and said that you were friends with the owner of Poofy. Regardless, I thought you should know that your blog post is having the opposite of its intended affect. I’m open to trying anything, but I won’t try Poofy, specifically because of this post. I’ve talked to some of my friends that are just trying natural cosmetic lines now and they agreed with me after seeing this. It reads very much like you will support “work at home moms” and anyone personally creating their own lines, but not anyone large enough to be considered a threat or competition to your Poofy sales.
To be honest, if you were going on the Ava Anderson Facebook page and stretching the truth to make false claims and accusations, as you are here, I’m not surprised you were banned from the page and/or they chose not to engage you. That does not change my opinion of them–at all. I’m glad that I did my own research into each of the issues you shared above. And that I made the choice to try Ava Anderson, anyway–I love it, it’s working well for me, and I believe in their integrity, despite the attempt to try to sway me (and everyone else) otherwise. I initially came to this page not searching on Ava Anderson vs. Poofy (I had never even heard of Poofy before!). I came because I was researching Ava Anderson after hearing from several other moms and friends that the diaper cream works and I wanted to try it for my sons. And it has helped them! And my own skin, as well as that of my dad and friends who have cancer and cannot use conventional products.
You have the same overall goal, so it is hard to understand your motives, but this post is akin to a political ad, and I’m not buying it. And I thought you should know you are doing a disservice to the own line you are trying to sell. And to people overall who are trying to weed through the muck of marketing claims. It is hard enough to know who to trust without this kind of stuff out there.
Thank you for including my comment. I hope that others, like me, will scroll down to read the comments and then take the time to do their own research.
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:30:18
I have no idea who the person writing the Baby Center comments is, but they know nothing about me & are making things up apparently…. And you choose to automatically believe what they say about me? Sorry, but no it is not having the opposite effect I’ve intended for. For every comment such as yours I receive 10X as many from people who, gasp, agree with me, and, gasp, THANK me… You have no idea how many people have left Ava Anderson for Poofy both in terms of customers & those looking to own their own business & have joined my Poofy team. Here is one of MANY recent emails, titled THANK YOU FOR YOUR BLOG: ” I was about to sell and use ava Anderson products when I came across one of your blogs. Anyway, I also was not happy with the fact that it was not usda certified and also that a third party certification is not used. I am comfortable using and selling the Poofy brand. I like that they are rated on skin deep which I have been familiar with for many years.” It goes on & on. You can see my best of the best list for many other brands that I ‘approve’ of, and several are made by WAHM’s. I do not consider Ava competition. They are a multi-million dollar, huge company making their products on assembly lines. There are 7,000+ Ava Reps. Poofy is a small, family-run company making everything by hand & provides 3rd party verification that they are using the best ingredients on the market via the USDA organic certification process. There are ~400 of us Guides now, and there will be a cap on enrollment when Poofy gets to the point that making things by hand is a stretch. It’s not about competition. It’s about truth, and call me a whistle-blower if you may, I won’t apologize for this article EVER. The EO comments I shared in the article, those were all immediately hidden on their page. Why? They have something to hide…Those who use Poofy LOVE it, and I have very happy customers as well as a very happy team of other (mostly) WAHM’s who couldn’t be happier. I was asking legitimate questions on the AANT page, like many others do daily & they will hide them all. I’m happy to include your comments!
You’re trying to make me out to be a terrible person for sharing my perspective on a company I feel is pulling the wool over everyone’s eyes. I hear the same from Melaleuca-devotees, they do everything they can to discredit me too. Since I’m selling Poofy that’s why I think Melaleuca is awful… WRONG! If you were me, and you were recommending products daily to a crowd of thousands who were buying & using those products, I can just about guarantee you’d make the same decision I did. I have no apologies for the fact that being an independent Poofy Guide is allowing me to stay home & raise my children! That doesn’t mean I can’t comment & raise valid, legitimate concerns on other lines. Please, if you have time, go to my main FB page & scroll back a couple years (which you can easily do via timeline) & you’ll see that I raised all these concerns about AANT BEFORE I became a Poofy affiliate 1 year ago. It’s all there for the record.
I’m also an affiliate of My Green Mattress. Does that mean I can’t comment about mattresses I wouldn’t recommend that are flame retardant-laden?
Here’s my FB page, if you’re interested in learning more: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eco-friendly-babyfamily-products-MADE-in-the-USA/397517646930548?ref=hl
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:31:33
And that approved list for your convenience: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/safe-products/
And feel free to use any of the other resources I’ve spent countless hours putting together for your convenience.
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 15:18:54
Did you happen to read this comment above, does this not bother you? It should: “I used to be an Ava Anderson rep. I immediately questioned their labeling, as they eluded to the fact that their FRAGRANCE oils are ESSENTIAL oils. Absolutely untrue. When I questioned, I was assured the labeling would be changed. It wasn’t. I do like the products, but the integrity is not there.”
I would LOVE to get together the funds to have their products tested, as many KNOW, just know they are using fragrance oils, not EO’s as the labels list, but it costs 10’s of thousands of dollars so unfortunately they will continue to get away with inaccurate labeling. Why? They are not certified organic….
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:37:03
From a different email: “Almost signed up with Ava Anderson but thanks to your reviews, you had shed some light on that subject. I wanted a product that a future client or family member can use with confidence that if I say it’s organic and toxic free, they can take that to the bank. I would be pretty embarrassed and upset if they found out otherwise.”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:38:53
This one made my day: “I was invited to an “Ava” party a few weeks ago by a friend of mine and I wanted to scream. I don’t understand how a mother (kim-) with a wealthy husband created this company under the pretense that it is actually her daughter running it. It’s absolute nonsense. Neither of these people have any idea what they are talking about- they just have access to a lot of money. As a business owner, this irritates me. I’ve been reading a lot of Wayne Dyer lately and was hoping to find some peace with this company, but I can’t. I’m a label reader and have my own animal rights/vegetarian agenda as well for a desire to use and promote natural, safe products for my family.
I was SO angry to have been invited to this AANT party and I came across an excellent blog post you wrote. There has to be more that people can do to uncover the truth behind this company…..
Anyway- I’m glad I came across your blog and Poofy products. I’ve been using mostly Intelligent Nutrients and body butters made by my hair stylist who is an aromatherapist. Other than that it’s just organic products at Target and I often question these companies…. Yours seems to have strong moral standards and I like that everything is made on site in the USA. I will spread the word about Poofy products and hopefully people open their eyes about AANT.”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:40:38
This is why I include the Poofy link, you don’t know how many people find me this way: “I was looking up info on Ava Anderson Non Toxic and found your info on Poofy. I agree with your blog post 100% & want to thank you for the time & effort you’ve put into getting this important info out there. I will be signing up to join your Poofy team ASAP.”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 13:42:01
Last one, I need to get out the door soon. “I came across your page because I googled poofy organics vs. ava anderson to see what I can find, and boy did I find what I was looking for!
I discovered Ava Anderson from Foodbabe (which I find to be a trusted source ) . She had recommended AANT mascara. SO when I came across a woman selling AANT at a Holistic mom conference I was excited. Her booth was directly across from poofy organics ( which I have used in the past because they sell it at my kids pediatrician’s office ) . It then occurred to me that there are so many products out there now that claim to be all natural or organic, so what was the real difference and which was better? The rep from AANT told me that their products were rated 0-1 on the EWG and while they aren’t certified organic , their ingredients were 100% organic . She then told me pretty much everything I read on your blog. That yes poofy is USDA certified organic , but that it only required 60% ingredients being organic?! and that their ratings on the EWG can range all the way up to a 7. Anyway, I believed it and went on my way. I didn’t buy any AANT products that day, but did see a sign that they were hiring and considered working for them , being that I am a SAHM and would love to have some extra income right about now! The rep had recently called me and we discussed a position with them. I have yet to try any of their products , so that it when my research began and I am so happy to have come across your page.
For obvious reasons I have decided that I will NOT be working for AANT, however working for poofy has peaked my interest. Can you tell me a little more about how it works as well as how it differs from working for AANT? I know with AANT if someone orders products from there website, the sales will go to the closest rep in that area. One of my questions is what stops someone from ordering products directly from Poofy’s website as oppose to a rep?
I appreciate any insight you may offer me about working for Poofy. I am PASSIONATE about natural living, and products. I am not computer savvy or really into being a sales person, so I am trying to figure out if this is right for me. Thanks for your help and for providing such great information on your page!”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 16:18:29
Yes, using fragrance oils claimed as essential oils would bother me…but that’s just it. That’s one of the items that I researched on my own that is an outright lie. It looks like you are saying that only to dissuade customers from Ava Anderson and get them to buy Poofy instead. Which in my book, is an ethical issue and clearly wrong.
Look, I’m not going to change your mind (and to be honest, I don’t even have the time to try…I’m a work at home mom with two young children), and you certainly aren’t going to change mine. Because you are stretching the truth and lying about one thing–or make that two that I see here and can verify using public information: 1) that Poofy uses all safe-rated ingredients (they don’t according to EWG) and 2) that Ava Anderson uses fragrance rather than essential oils (they don’t, also according to EWG and talking directly to the Anderson’s myself)–it makes me question what else you are lying about. So what you are accusing them of, is what you are in fact doing yourself. The people who are thanking you might simply be believing what you are saying, which is a shame.
I’m probably not the only one who has thought this (in fact, I know I’m not because I’ve talked to friends in person who came across this blog and felt the same). I’m probably one of the only few who took the time to tell you. I’m sure you’ve lost many more customers this way than me.
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 18:29:16
1 final point, on EWG & Poofy ratings: Yes, the do use clove oil in a few products, with any EO concern, dilution is key & Kristina is a certified aromatherapist who knows proper dilution. If you’re not OK with clove oil, skip those few products. Next ingredient of concern listed: flavor oil, it lists 3 products & all were old formulations (click on the link that says 3 products). Next listing: Unspecified Oils, click on the link that says 4 products & you’ll see it lists the Artemis products, which were discontinued a year or so ago. Carbon= yes it’s in the eye liner, I personally don’t wear make-up, but know you need carbon to make eyeliner. Overall, the eye liner scores a 2. No other ingredient scores above a 2. I just want to make sure everyone understands EWG is not perfect. If AANT products list EO’s on the label, that’s what EWG will list also, they don’t do independent testing, just input what is on the label. I literally laughed out loud at the fact that you use the word of the Anderson’s to go by regarding the use of EO’s. Of course they wouldn’t admit it to you if it weren’t true. And just like when the diaper cream indeed was determined to contain zinc oxide after they denied it, if the truth does come out they’ll blame the manufacturer: ” well, they told us they were using EO’s (or weren’t using zinc in the diaper cream), how were we to know”… I see EWG lists a whole 12 Ava products (to Poofy’s 189). Interesting. I thought they had more than that…. Out of those 12, I see 3’s & 4’s. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/company/Ava_Anderson_NonToxic/
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 17:00:32
From Amanda: “I came across your blog and post about Poofy Organics and also your concerns with Ava Anderson. I am currently an Ava Anderson Representative. I started with them in October, so still fairly new but have already accomplished so much. You helped shed some light on some issues with Ava. When I joined I was concerned that they didn’t have the USDA organic certification. They told me that all there ingredients are usda certified organic by the manufacturers that they purchase the ingredients from. I asked them for a list of those companies and they couldn’t do that because they said it was business confidentiality thing which i could understand but i was still a bit unsettled. After reading your post about Poofy, I was like if they can be certified why not Ava Anderson, I feel like there shouldn’t be an excuse right!?
So now I feel like I want to jump ship! This is so scary for me but I feel like my customers would understand!”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 17:03:16
From Kelly: “I came across your site looking for Ava Anderson reviews- a friend started using a lot of her products and recommended them. I am not a huge researcher on each individual ingredient so you’re site is awesome for someone like me!”
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 17:05:50
Phone call, will have to resume this later. In a couple days… As you said, I hope people will take the time to read the comments so I want to make sure I share all the positive ones, which tend to be emailed I guess since people have questions for me as well, which I’m always happy to answer. I don’t consider losing someone over this issue a problem, it’s their loss, not mine.
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 17:14:09
You must be an Ava Rep, right? I don’t think many people have the occasion to “talk directly to the Anderson’s themselves”. And I get accused of being “friends” with the owner of Poofy. I could turn around & question everything about you as well. But I’m so ready to move on & enjoy this beautiful Summer day with my family 🙂 I hope you do the same!
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Jul 08, 2015 @ 21:44:21
I’m fine with dissenting points of view that further the conversation. I’m not fine with being called a liar & a terrible person. Please move on to a different blogger you disagree with. Thank you.
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Jul 09, 2015 @ 07:48:34
I appreciate all the research and keeping our best interest at heart! I was also with a “so-called certified organic” company (not Ava Anderson) and when I found that to be untrue, I bailed! I cannot sell to family and friends and tell them knowing what I know now. I just couldn’t do it in good conscience so I am so thankful I found your website! There are always going to be people who are in denial and believe me I know what that is all about. I have a relative who tried to sign me with Melaluca and she thinks they are the greatest, non-toxic, organic company out there because she is in love with all their products. People need to be open to the fact that it’s possible a company is not who they say they are and just because you love the products, it doesn’t change the facts. There were plenty of products I loved with my former company I was with but the truth is the truth, and it was time for me to go!
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Jul 09, 2015 @ 12:16:43
I have noticed that some brands (some mentioned in you green washing article) do not list their ingredients. I would love to know which ingredients are toxic in this Ava Anderson product. I can’t seem to see any, BUT what do you think?
I am more upset vy reading reviews from people using renew, which is FULL of carcinogens after having mastectomies ……
avaSCENT love .33 oz.
Item #: OIL02
Our beautiful scents are formulated with pure essential oils and extracts from around the world. Apply these scents to pulse points on your body (wrists and neck). Love fragrance contains sweet scents of sambac jasmine, rose and iris with a touch of jacaranda wood and madagascar vanilla.
Your Price: $19.95
Apply to pulse points on wrist and neck. Ingredients: cocos nucifera (coconut) carrier oil, iris pallid (iris) rhizomes, jacaranda mimosifolia (jacaranda wood) essential oil, jasminum officinale (jasmine) absolute via enfleurage, cryptocaryo massoio (massoia bark) essential oil, brachyleana hutchinsii (muhuhu) nature identical, citrus aurantium (neroli) essential oil, evernia prunastri (oakmoss) essential oil, rosa centifolia (rose) essential oil, vanilla planifolia (vanilla) essential oil, geranium macrorrhizum (zdravets) essential oil
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Jul 09, 2015 @ 12:35:48
I see nothing concerning there, except that is a LOT of EO to be putting on your body. AS long as you don’t have a reaction to any of them, and I’m sure you’d just be using a spritz or 2, that’s all it is EO’s & a carrier oil. Assuming they’re really using what they say they are & nothing more or les….
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Jul 11, 2015 @ 02:30:31
I became highly suspicious of Ava Anderson and her products after watching the intro of her Ted talk where she claimed that she couldn’t find any products at all that were safe to use. With that outrageous BS as her foundation, I felt I couldn’t trust anything else she was saying and quickly stopped watching. I’ve been seeking out safe products for over 15 years and while it’s not always easy and you do have to be a careful label reader, it’s been possible to find good alternatives to most products for at least a decade. Honestly, it’s getting easier all the time. I’ll never buy from a company that’s so patently disingenuous from the get go.
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Jul 11, 2015 @ 16:43:47
Good points! I wasn’t aware of the TED talk!
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Jul 17, 2015 @ 04:05:48
Would you be willing to share some of the brands you have found? I’m currently using Ava on my little one and am curious about other options! Thanks!!
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Jul 17, 2015 @ 12:25:30
Absolutely, here’s my ‘approved’ list: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/safe-products/
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Aug 12, 2015 @ 16:12:37
Well, I took it upon myself to do the research into safe products. You really CAN’T find any that are really 100% safe. (If someone wants to get technical and pull a single product out of a line, she is talking about product lines and companies as a whole as she makes very clear on her site) Even Poofy Organics is not 100% safe as ecofriendlymama has admitted in the replies. It’s worth watching the whole Ted talk and not shorting yourself on an initial statement.
Ava also has no motivation to dupe consumers into buying her products be it that up until last year she was non-profit and still takes no commission in sales, but puts all profit back into the company. Her purpose is to educate people about the dangers of toxins, not to blindside people.
I’m a kind of person who likes factual scientific links. If ecofriendlymama would like to post links to her sources for her claims or her research, I would like to see them. Otherwise, noone should buy into it. …and I mean links that are not in some way connected back to her. Ava would like to know too be it that when presented with factual information, she will change the product to be safer if found unsafe.
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Aug 12, 2015 @ 23:22:37
Certified organic= safer, and the oversight to provide the peace of mind consumers like myself (and many, many others) desire. If she really cared, she’d certified the whole line. She does not take a commission because her family is independently wealthy. And at the same time, they claim the certification is too costly & laborious…
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Aug 13, 2015 @ 00:26:04
Well, I hadn’t even mentioned the “organic” issue, but seeing as you brought it up, I found this quote directly from the FDA.gov website: “FDA doesn’t have regulations defining “natural” or “organic” for cosmetics.”
Therefore how is the term “organic” printed on a cosmetic label guaranteeing safety?
It doesn’t! With a quick google search I found certified organic products with PEG, parfum and many ingredients I won’t attempt to re type without misspelling them. The term “organic” on cosmetic products is as useful as “pure”, “natural” or “clean”.
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Aug 14, 2015 @ 01:00:41
Certified organic products CANNOT contain PEG, parfum, etc.. that is completely incorrect. And, although they may not have regulations on the term “organic”, they CERTAINLY have regulations on the USDA CERTIFIED ORGANIC SEAL. Poofy’s cosmetics, which you refer to above, are not certified organic. While they are made with many certified organic ingredients, certain ingredients cannot be certified, even though they come from the earth, like micas. Nail polish, not certified organic, eye shadow, mascara, etc…. This blog post explains it quite well: http://poofyorganics.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-rules-of-being-usda-certified.html
Also, can someone please pass this along to someone at Ava Anderson, since they claim they can’t afford the certification process, from Kristina, the owner of Poofy: “the USDA has covered more than HALF of our certification fees for three years in a row. They WANT people to become certified organic! They’re even paying for it!”
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 20:11:12
I just went to double check & make sure the “organic kelp extract” was still listed on the dish soap (interesting fact is that the ingredient does not exist via the approved USDA suppliers list). Also interesting that no other dish soap on the market uses it, nor have any of the many soap makers I’ve asked about this ingredient ever heard of it. I notice it lists my consultant off to the right, who should that be but Ava: https://extranet.securefreedom.com/Ava/Shopping/ShoppingCart.asp?Cat=avaPRODUCTS%20-%20all%20products&ProductID=
Also, I’ve been told by those who have jumped ship from Ava to Poofy (more & more all the time) that the company enrolls Reps under Ava. But you’re saying she does not keep a dime of this, correct?
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Jul 18, 2015 @ 15:34:46
I’ve been thinking of joining Ava to get discounts on products but I do not see their certification on their website.
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Jul 18, 2015 @ 17:14:20
Because they’re not certified….
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Jul 20, 2015 @ 14:52:29
Thank you.
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Jul 18, 2015 @ 15:36:18
I don’t buy that getting certified is too expensive for a big company.
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Jul 18, 2015 @ 17:15:47
It would be a drop in a bucket for them. It’s the most ridiculous excuse imaginable.
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Aug 14, 2015 @ 12:29:39
Also, I shared this in another comment, but just learned this interesting fact from Kristina, the owner of Poofy: “the USDA has covered more than HALF of our certification fees for three years in a row. They WANT people to become certified organic! They’re even paying for it!” So, looks like Ava could set up a payment plan with the USDA 🙂
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Aug 14, 2015 @ 15:16:27
I had contacted the USDA for information on regulations. I just got an email back with the detailed PDF. the 95% claim is right to be “organic”. Though they can claim an organic cert. with only 70% organic ingredients. They just can’t claim completely organic.
The other non organic ingredients have to comply with the national list of cosmetic ingredients. We both know that list is extensive and does include toxic ingredients.
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 11:56:00
The USDA seal is for things 95% organic+. The other 5% is a very strict list, including things like baking soda & other elements from the earth (not plant life which is what can be certified). It does NOT include things like parfum, PEG’s, etc. It is a safe, small list. Please don’t tell me what we both know, I completely disagree with your points & your effort to bash the seal, which many who support Ava try to do, to make themselves feel better about not having it.
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 12:45:07
You don’t read anything I say do you? And you’ve never read the list I’m willing to bet.
How about this. If you do have the list, please list for me all the ingredients Ava currently uses that are not allowed on the National List. I have the list. I asked the USDA to send me the PDF. So let’s see what we have.
Btw, you should look up the products that are allowed to be used to sanitize packaging. The ewg lists one of them as an organ toxin.
Just in case you want to claim I’m making it up, look up this one. cyclohexylamine. This is on the list as an allowed synthetic substance. This list is also current as of Aug. 13, 2015.
I’m done with this at this point. Ignorance doesn’t lead to safe choices. I’m just glad you at least chose a safer product than most.
I really don’t care that you like or support Ava or not. I figured I could educate you a bit on some realities so you’re not steering others wrong. I can see you’re just going to do what you want regardless of truth.
The truth cannot be told to you unless you’re willing to hear it.
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 15:07:06
Nick, here’s my main point (& yes, I have read every word), WITHOUT the certification, there is NO guarantee that Ava’s products contain what they actually say they do, nothing more or less. If you read my post, you’d have learned about when they came out & said “oops, I guess our diaper cream does actually contain zinc oxide, sorry about that”. This is after many people knew it did contain it, but they denied it. Since the weren’t making it themselves, they were clueless, and the manufacturer finally claim clean. If my child had a life-threatening zinc oxide allergy, obviously it would be an issue. There is NO oversight, NO guarantee of anything without the certification. The dish soap that bubbles amazingly well, with no glucosides in it (which are totally safe), they claim the organic sea kelp does that. I’ve not found a single soap maker that agrees that the dish soap label adds up to an effective product. BUT it takes tens of thousands of dollars to test products to find out if indeed there is something extra added. If they were to get certified, everything would have to add up. This is the truth, I hope you’re willing to hear it. What you consider the truth doesn’t mean it actually is. Ignorance?! Yeah, good one Nick… Just because you don’t agree with me, doesn’t mean I’m wrong. I’m asking tough questions that Ava Anderson folks can’t answer, they just turn to bashing the process.
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Jul 30, 2015 @ 18:25:58
I am a cloth diaper user and know that zinc oxide does not cause diapers to repel. The reason zinc oxide is discouraged is because it stains. Petroleum products are what causes cloth diapers to repel.
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Jul 30, 2015 @ 23:51:43
I am a cloth diapering Mama of 4 years now, and personally would never use it on cloth, many manufacturers of the diapers as well as creams state NOT to use zinc oxide with cloth diapers. It depends on the inserts as well, but many, many cloth diapering parents have reported that creams that contain zinc oxide have turned their diapers into leakers.
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Aug 14, 2015 @ 15:05:40
I wish you would link your sources. I’ve looked into both the FDA and the USDA sites. I couldn’t find the regs from the USDA site, but the FDA site explicitly states that they have the same standards for all products and that it is the USDAs responsibility to uphold the certification. If a company is inspected by the FDA or affiliate, they are inspecting for overall compliance and not organic compliance. From what I did find on the USDA site, they just make sure the “agricultural ingredients” used Comply as well as that there is a certain amount in the product. There is nothing anywhere that says it regulates at least what the other ingredients are. Unless you want to show me a link to that particular claim by the USDA.
Ava knows the regulation would not determine that her products are safe or not. She educates all her consumers so they can be intelligent enough to figure it out for themselves. There are rules in place that make it obvious when hidden toxins are in the product. Once you are educated through an Ava hour, certifications and greenwashing doesn’t matter anymore. You can find everything you need. They teach that when you can’t find something about a product that it is a big red flag.
I know you have this big grudge against Ava, but the organics cert. is a weak stance to go on. I need actual links from you, not ones that go back to your own sources.
Another thing. Ava isn’t about bringing down other companies, she wants companies like Poofy Organics and others like hers to prevail over the industry standard. That’s her whole mission. Your whole mission seems to be trying to compete with hers. Your approach here on this blog has been hurting Poofy Organics. Not helping them. Some people might buy what you say. Most I’ve come across don’t buy into your hype and have a negative view of Poofy Organics because of it despite how good that company is. They’re not bad, but you’re giving them a bad name by attacking another specific company with the same mission. So either both are bad and should be avoided, or both are good and should be promoted. Which is it?
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 14:27:33
I agree. I think we should be happy there are choices and several complainies who are trying to change the game in the beauty/cosmetic industry. I love Ava’s mission and her dedication to changing policy but I do wonder why she hasn’t taken the last step to certify her finished products or at least disclose the certification for her ingredients. With that, I use multiple ‘safe’ products and being “organic” is only part of the issue for my family. We strive to use products that are also “fair trade certified” guaranteeing families who provided ingredients get fair compensation, such as coffee and Shea butter and that our money didn’t contribute to child labor such as the chocolate industry. I’m glad there are so many individuals looking for safer products. People are waking up and regardless of what safer soap you use, Ava, Poofy, or Dr. Bronners, I’m glad people are choosing wisely. Good point Nick!
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 15:07:40
All Poofy ingredients that come from abroad are indeed Fair Trade, so you know. That’s very important to us as well!
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 15:50:23
thank you. Ava labels each ingredient as organic if it is certified. Most of her ingredients are.
And I am all about fair trade, not tested on animals and safe for people and the environment. We try to continue buying products that can adhere to all of the above. We continue to learn more each day.
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 19:37:41
Certified by WHO?
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Aug 15, 2015 @ 23:43:04
There are only 3 sources in the U.S. That can certify things as organic: NSF/ANSI, OASIS, and of course the USDA. Unlike the lax rules on the label itself, there are strict rules as to what is or is not listed as ingredients. In order to list an ingredient in the United States as “organic” it would have had to have been certified by one of the three certifiable sources. Be it that not all Ava’s ingredients came from the same source, we can’t claim they were certified by just one of those sources. It would depend on the agricultural source. I think most however are through ANSI.
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 12:45:18
I think we could go back & forth indefinitely. My final statement is this, I believe they are talking the talk, but not walking the walk. Having their final product certified means it’s produced in a USDA approved facility & there’s is not. They will shut me up in a second & I can take this post down & move them to my Best of the best list the second they get certified. I WANT to be wrong about them. I want organic sea kelp to be an awesome bubble making ingredient so more organic dish soaps can be made. The second they get certified & no ingredients change in their products you’ll see a huge post & apology that I doubted them. Until then, I will continue to be extremely doubtful of many things. I appreciate you being mostly civil & respectful Nick. I’m not adverse to having my opinion challenged whatsoever, what I am adverse to is words like ignorant & when things start to get less than civil. I think we did pretty good here 🙂
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 15:44:06
Just for the record, I claimed that “ignorance doesn’t lead to safe choices”. I never called you ignorant. if you want to be assured of Ava’s safety, just do what I asked. She can’t by law not list something that is in her products. She can’t by law call something organic in her ingredients list without it being certified by an official entity I listed. I challenged you to list all the ingredients she uses that would not be allowed by the USDA certification. You chose not to.
I challenged you to research an allowed chemical on the national list that has been linked to organ toxicity yet can be in certified organic products. You again chose not to address it. I feel that if you really cared to prove it to yourself and to others without them taking the certification steps, you easily could. You choose not to. This is why I said ignorance doesn’t lead to safe choices. You are choosing to ignore the tools out there that can prove a product is either safe or not and are relying on a system that is still flawed to a degree. Yes organic products are saf “er” but are not necessarily completely safe. This is part of the education Ava asks all her consumers to understand. Again, you should be thrilled there’s another company out there that wants to take toxins out of cosmetics and educate people on the dangers of toxins in products. At least, you should not be trying to confuse the process further. You assume the term “certified organic” is the cure all. If it was, companies like poofy and Ava would have nothing to go on, but instead it’s still a flawed system where companies like poofy, dr. Bonner, and Ava still need to go in their own direction and try to steer people away from the American standard for toxic cosmetics. Ava says to vote with your wallet. She is supportive of any company that strives to be pure and true. You should be too if you really want to live up to your internet name.
You have a good name, it screams honesty and reliability. So people will see ecofriendlymama and automatically trust you. I appreciate your concern over companies and their claims, but with such a reliable name like you have, do the homework. When people ask, have links to the national list, to the appropriate sections of the USDA and FDA sites. If you have a concern about a company. Solidify it by having proof that there is something to be concerned about, don’t make assumptions that things were there that weren’t, or that they cannot be as good as they claim because of certification choices. Companies like that need support of people like you to allow the mission of disrupting the corporate American toxic movement. One company can’t do it by itself. Ava needs other companies like poofy and dr. Bonner to be successful too. Poofy needs other companies like them. It’s how the word is going to get out. The overall cause and reason for these companies being should be your number one priority. I fear it’s not. That is going to hurt the movement more than help. You are trusted. Take that responsibility seriously.
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 16:56:00
You are correct, that ingredient is allowed as a sanitizer. My point, ethical companies won’t use it. Poofy does not. Sucks that it is allowed, yes, but those that support the organic movement would never, ever use it. My question: who is Ava answering to? Who is checking to make sure the products contain everything exactly as labeled? NO ONE, no govt agency, no oversight. Yes, they are SUPPOSED to label everything, but as the zinc oxide incident shows, that did not happen at one point. Also, if not familiar, Google “CA baby reformulation scandal” (one link here for convenience, there are many more: http://non-toxickids.net/2012/01/california-baby-reformulation-trouble.html)& you’ll find plenty of articles from a couple years ago about how they reformulated but said nothing changed. Many kids suddenly started getting rashes & burns even, CA baby still denied they changed anything. THEN suddenly they came out & said, oh yes, we did add sodium benzoate (from memory, it’s been a few years now). This kind of ridiculous stuff happens even though it shouldn’t. I do take sharing my opinion via my blog, Fb page & group very seriously. 3 1/2 years in now & many families trust my opinion very much. I can assure you the truth will come out some day, and I welcome that day very much! And believe me, Poofy is not hurting in the slightest from this. Yes in the Ava circle there will always be the Poofy vs Ava debate. But to the consumer that cares about the oversight that the USDA label provides, Ava will never be good enough. Those that will settle for less are welcome to use whatever they want. Again, let me post my Best of the Best list, many companies make the certification a priority, and those are who I will support with my dollars, and also encourage those who read what I have to say to do as well: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/safe-products/
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 17:36:44
Nick, I am a proponent of all things organic. My company has gone through the process of becoming certified because we wanted our customers to be sure we were “walking the walk”. It’s a seal I look for with my own family. The fact that Jess questions companies such as AANT shows JUST how serious she is towards her responsibility to the public. Is AANT as bad as some of the other guys- absolutely not. However, as a company who makes themselves out to be a “pioneer in the industry” and the “best of the best”, I’m sorry, but they are not. When a company lies to their customers claiming that USDA certification is “too expensive”, I have a problem with that. When a company states that they are just as good as certified organic yet knows absolutely NOTHING about the process and goes out of their way to bash it, I have a problem with that. When a company puts out a product that smells like fragrance and lists “essential oils” as an ingredient, I have an issue with that. When a company lies on its list of ingredients that is a red flag! There is NO such thing as vanilla essential oil, “fatty acids from plants” is not an ingredient and I’ve been asked by several people how the Bug Spray does not separate its water/oils. Lastly, customers wrote in and asked about their Baby Lotion stating that the emulsifier was obviously missing and they were ignored. So, when a company is lead by someone who did nothing to learn the foundational processes of personal care products or how they are made and chose to have others do it for her, I definitely have a problem with that as well. How can you possibly be sure that your 2nd-party manufacturers are including the ingredients you approve of, if you have no idea how they are made? How can you check on that quality assurance? You cannot.
I can list many companies that I would consider to be “in line” with being truly organic and leaders in the industry. You are correct, NO product is absolutely 100% completely safe. There are even those who are allergic to water; however, when it comes to the SAFEST, you can be sure USDA certified organic products are on the top of the list! If AANT can get certified organic, then they should do so, and I would certainly welcome them to the club with open arms. You want to give your customers something that they can trust? Have someone come into your facility and show them JUST HOW ORGANIC you really are! THEN you can claim you are a PIONEER in this industry! Otherwise, it is just hearsay!
Also, Nick, I definitely suggest you contact the USDA to take a look at their application process. I do not believe you are seeing the entire story. You may see bits and pieces by “googling”; however, if you really read all that was involved in the process, you’d realize how truly in depth it is. This is why companies get their certifications taken away- because the 3rd-party certifiers are doing their jobs with inspections! They hold the companies accountable! Here is a snippet of what we go through daily!
http://www.poofyorganics.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-rules-of-being-usda-certified.html
I wish you success with any company you choose to represent; however, always be sure that company TRULY has your best interests at heart!
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 00:35:08
Also the FDA inspects all companies to make sure they are compliant with rules and standards. If Ava is an authorized retailer of cosmetic products, she must go through yearly inspections and surprise inspections outlined in the FDA website. This would include compliance with accurately listing ingredients and appropriate protocol.
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 19:28:30
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Aug 16, 2015 @ 23:55:18
I looked into the zinc oxide issue. Everyone I’ve talked to that either used or sold the product has affirmed that the diaper cream did not have zinc oxide in it prior to it being on the label. The product was modified which is something Ava is doing consistently. Believe it if you want. Don’t it you don’t.
The toxic ingredient I listed was one of several allowed in organically certified products. You should read the list.
I have talked to the USDA directly. They sent me the PDF of their full application and requirements document which includes the follow up processes. I also got the list which is a part of a hundred page document of rules, regs and procedures of all aspects of the organic product lines.
List Ava’s ingredients that do not comply. And explain the motivation Ava Anderson has to dupe the public into buying a product she made for the sole purpose of offering a safe alternative to the toxins.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 12:36:04
Nick, I’m not making the zinc issue up. It happened ~2 years ago, as I mentioned I’m 3 1/2 years into my blog now. I witnessed it take place.
Why dupe people, exact same reason every other company does==MONEY! I hear the “she doesn’t take a salary” but I don’t buy it for a second. Her already wealthy family is getting wealthier by the second. And that’s OK, that’s capitalism & I’m all for it. But please don’t try to spin it into something other than what it obviously is.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 12:54:50
On the article you referenced with the FDA complaint. A quick Google search shows that is was dismissed and filed by a woman who apparently makes a habit of filing FDA complaints against every line except the one she is selling (NYR). She accidentally left her full name at the bottom of her FDA letter, if you’d like to check for yourself. Don’t worry, I’m sure her Poofy complaint is forthcoming. She has a clear conflict of interest, similar to the Poofy sales author of this article. I agree with the above poster that I need to see actual, objective evidence to the claims you are making. I can find none. EWG.org, Healthy Child, Healthy World and other independent organizations do not substantiate any of the above claims. You share letters from random people. How do we know you are not the one writing them? I actually heard you DO delete comments. The very thing you are so incensed about Ava Anderson doing to you (if they even are). I noticed you include only small lines on your best of the best. Why is that? Is the grudge against Ava Anderson because they are growing larger? They started as a small line, too. It is not their fault people like the products so much.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:30:42
I noticed reading through the comments that you claim you never met Kristina, the owner of Poofy, and wouldn’t call yourself friends. Yet, is that her commenting directly below where you say that? And you are direct quoting her in your other replies. But yet you are not friends and have never met. That is fishy.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:40:14
She is the owner of Poofy Organics. I am an independent Guide of Poofy Organics. No one knows the rules of the USDA certification process better than her, so I asked her about one of the claims Nick made which she verified. She’s aware of this post, and commented, which any & all are welcome to do. We have never met. I live in WI, her in NJ. No doubt we’d be great friends if we had the opportunity.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:42:38
I’m sorry, I do see that you have one larger line, Badger. But noticed how you point out their items coming from South Asia. Which is good info to have. Except I am doubtful that we will ever see a line you recommend that offers a direct sales component. Why? Because it competes with Poofy is the only real reasonable explanation. And you couldn’t recommend a line that would take away from your own business. So the USDA certification (which is clearly not perfect, as people have taken the time to point out, but you choose to ignore), even though all of her ingredients are certified organic, is the only leg you have to stand on. I completely agree with Nick that you are missing the point and should not be knocking down other companies with the same goal, simply to promote your own. I do hope you choose to include my comments (and not simply pick and choose those that you’d like to include, as a friend pointed out you did to her), but I’m doubtful.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:46:37
Lovely Lady has direct sales. I’ve never used them, but they’re certified organic. And great, you agree with Nick. That’s fine. I don’t. This is my blog. I share MY thoughts here. Feel free to start your own to share your thoughts. You are so, so wrong about me, but that’s OK, I’m used to people jumping to conclusions. You can go to my Fb page, and do 3 1/2 years worth of scrolling & read every post. You’ll see I was using & recommending Poofy daily for a couple years before I joined the team one year ago. I understand what you’re trying to allege, but it’s totally wrong. Here’s a post I did when I announced it, and you can read what my audience had to say in the FB link archived at the bottom. https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/2014/06/16/my-decision-to-become-a-diva-with-poofy-organics/
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:43:34
I wouldn’t call Earth Mama Angel Baby, Dr. Bronner’s, Redmond Trading or some of the others small lines. Fine for you to disagree. Have a great day!
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 13:57:44
I saw the larger lines (see comment above), but again they aren’t really competition for Poofy… I fear you may be missing my point. But that doesn’t really matter. It matters moreso that you are misguiding your readership. And people are catching on. That must not feel great. I did look at the Facebook link and it simply reiterates what you say here. So it is no validation.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:22:42
Again, wrong! The positive outpouring of love & support for Poofy is amazing! People are so thrilled to finally find a line they can trust! And you don’t know how many have jumped ship from Ava, it feels great! I assure you, none of the messages are made up by me. As a super busy Mom of 2 young ones, with several successful businesses, I don’t have time to sit around & fabricate positive messages, they come all on their own, thanks for the concern! I am a very happy, very loving, very kind Wisconsin gal. I don’t know many people happier than I am, I am very grateful for every day. Occasionally I get a negative message(s) such as yours, but they’re easy to forget because the positive FAR outweigh the negative. The internet if full of opinions you may not agree with, that’s the reality. Not sure why you’re trying to make me feel bad, that’s kind of sad.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:28:47
Poofy is tiny by the way, way smaller than any of the lines I mentioned. There are 400 of us Guides in the entire country. How many is Ava up to? 8,000+. The other lines are ALL competition as they are the safest options on the market, and many are certified organic. I share that list every, single day. Some choose Poofy, some choose Earth Mama, etc. I can’t believe you would claim I’m misguiding anyone. Reminder of my mission: “to find the safest lines on the market, for my family & yours”. It is MY OPINION based on what I would use on my own family. I wouldn’t recommend any line I wouldn’t personally use. Ava is not on my list. Sorry for the bad news that my opinion doesn’t match yours. But it does not mean mine is wrong in any way.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:29:13
In response to your comment:”there is no such thing as vanilla essential oil” https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/vanilla-essential-oil.html.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:37:16
I found that too Nick, I’ve asked Kristina about it.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:57:42
http://www.lgbotanicals.com/Vanilla-Pure-Essential-Oil–No-Such-Thing_b_27.html#.VdH2WB3bLzJ
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:41:19
Also kelp is on the list as a product allowed to be used in organic products. Kelp is non organically processed but is allowed. Section 205.606.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 14:51:29
It’s listed as organic kelp. Also, find one other product using it to make bubbles please? Also, find a supplier that offers it please.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 15:26:32
It is not listed as organic kelp. Section 205.606 is ; “non organically produced agricultural products allowed as ingredients in or on processed products labeled as organic”. Read the section I referenced. Either way, refutes your claim that it is not allowed by your own admission here. I think we’re done. Unless you want to try at another ingredient.
The big point. Your claim that organically certified products are the only products that are completely safe is repeatedly refuted with the ingredient I listed and proof that the very things you claim aren’t allowed actually are. there’s nothing more to say really. You have this personal thing against Ava and her family and that’s fine. Don’t hurt the consumers and their children by bringing the purity issue into the toxic free product lines. Poofy is doing their best to be safe and toxic free and have used the USDA seal to try and assure their consumers they’re safe. Ava has educated her consumers and is doing her best to make sure not only are her products toxin free, but environmentally safe, and as allergen free as possible. Both companies are doing the best job they know how to do to vote with their wallet and products to educate others and rebell against corporate America and their allowance of dangerous chemicals in our everyday products. Jump on that bandwagon.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 15:34:54
https://extranet.securefreedom.com/Ava/Shopping/ShoppingCart_Detail.asp?PriceID=4581&Cat=avaHOME – home cleaning|ALL&Qty=1
laminaria hyperborea (organic kelp) extract is listed.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 18:33:21
Actually Nick, AANT DOES list it as “organic kelp”. Please take a look at their Dish Liquid: laminaria hyperborea (organic kelp) extract.
Also, this statement is false: “Also the FDA inspects all companies to make sure they are compliant with rules and standards. If Ava is an authorized retailer of cosmetic products, she must go through yearly inspections and surprise inspections outlined in the FDA website” The FDA does NOT inspect all companies. The FDA inspects PHARMACEUTICAL manufacturing facilities The USDA (under the FDA) is the only governing body that has come to inspect our facility and that is because they were invited in when we applied for certification and therefore can now surprise us with inspections. If we gave up our USDA certification, we’d never see them again.
Again, if you are going to put yourself out there as a company that is “doing the best”, then “be the best”. There should not be any margin of error and questions where your ingredients are concerned. I can assure you, you will not find any inconsistencies with our ingredients or our products!
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 15:34:32
Regarding the zinc oxide issue, it was a DEFINITE issue. I happen to be one of the people who realized it when someone brought a jar into my store. It was obvious that zinc oxide (or titanium dioxide) was used in the product, yet NOT listed on the label. Again, this points to seriously NOT understanding the foundation of making a personal care product. Anyone with experience would have seen the issue right away. So, how long was the product being sold with this issue?
Bookgirl, my question to you is how do you know all AANT’s ingredients are certified organic? Because they say so? And how do THEY know? Are they there when the product is being made and packaged? Is there a trace of paperwork to be sure? Is a 3rd party certifying this? If not, but I’m sorry, they can say “certified organic” all day long and it may not be true! That is where accountability comes in!
Jessica was a proponent of Poofy for years prior to joining. She is also a proponent of Bubble & Bee and any other company that she feels falls in line with HER standards. There is nothing wrong with that. Some people have higher standards than non-toxic and that is their prerogative. That is where Poofy comes in. If you are happy with AANT, that’s great. But, please do not bash a woman who has made it her mission to find the SAFEST products and write about them. Jessica has educated thousands of people into making better choices for their families and it was MY persistence after years of doing so that made her choose to FINALLY make some money from that. THAT is the American dream. Finding something you TRULY believe in and are passionate about and being able to make money doing so. If THAT makes her a bad person, then you are just as bad as she is for doing the same. I’m willing to bet you don’t go recommending NYR Organic products on your Facebook page!
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 20:35:11
I was talking about the USDA standards for organic which would explain my section reference to the National List. If Ava is using organic kelp, then she’s one step above the organic standards of the USDA for that product. Good for her.
As for Zinc oxide, do you have a link to the reports?
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 21:07:31
Oh no, they long since deleted the whole zinc debacle from their Fb page, as they do any comment or question they don’t want to answer. In hindsight, I wish I had taken screen shots of course, I don’t think I even knew what screen shots were then! I find your statement hilarious & totally infuriating at the same time. Good for her?! One step above organic standards? Wow. Definitely disagree with you more than ever. Which is fine, I’m ok with it 🙂 You think she’s setting the gold standard, I think you’re being duped big time… How lucky they are to have people like you that believe what they say, with no proof of anything, just their word. I agree to disagree, and move on at this time.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 20:41:05
I don’t recommend any products on my Facebook page. I recommend everyone do their homework and realize the unregulated dangers that are cosmetic products.
I recommend people think for themselves and not take the word of others including myself. I recommend supporting all companies that have the same mission as Poofy and Ava who both happen to have the same mission. I recommend not confusing the consumer anymore than they already are.
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Aug 17, 2015 @ 21:04:12
I recommend the exact same. I urge EVERYONE to do their own research. Some will agree with me, some will not. And that’s life!
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Aug 18, 2015 @ 21:49:04
I don’t think anyone here is being negative against Ava and her message about the many toxic ingredients out there. It’s a huge part of what Ava is and she is greatly appreciated and admired for the hard work she does. The main problem that many of us have is simply transparency.
I am not with any company, but am currently looking (which brought me to this site). Like other people, I have been misled by companies in the past – they were not what they advertised to be. There continues to be a LOT of misleading information out there these days, so it’s only natural that people want to have verification of what is being advertised.
If a company is going to advertise that they are using organic ingredients, then they need to have something available to customers (and their consultants) that proves they are in fact using organic ingredients. Without it, you are asking people to go on blind faith… and that’s a hard sell for those of us who have been burned in the past.
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Aug 18, 2015 @ 22:57:11
THANK YOU for taking the time to write Sam. I so needed a pick me up on this thread!!! I think you may have summed up my entire premise better in a few sentences better than I’ve been able to do in paragraph after paragraph. You’re exactly right! Companies will say ANYTHING to make a buck. I need to see the proof, I’m not taking anyone’s word that they’re the best of the best!
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Aug 18, 2015 @ 23:52:30
Ava would say, “it’s all about the ingredients”. There are strict rules as to how ingredients are listed, though a lot of companies like to use blanket terms for their products. Basically those are terms like “fragrance” which under that name can be hundreds of chemicals. She warns against any company using blanket terms. Also you cannot claim to have anything in your product that is not there on the ingredients list. Anything that Ava has that is organic is clear on the ingredients list. She cannot call an ingredient organic legally unless it has been certified organic by one of the 3 certifying companies. Not to be confused with companies that claim a product is organic with few organic ingredients and a lot of chemicals. There are many companies who try to “greenwash” you by sounding good on the label, but again the truth is in the ingredients which has to be listed in order from most volume to least and must have a term for every ingredient. This is where blanket terms come in to hide lists of ingredients that companies claim are a “trade secret” which is very suspect. You have a right to know what’s in your products and whether those ingredients are safe or not. Ava, poofy and beautycounter all have a list of ingredients to avoid if you check out their websites. Be it that there are over 85,000 chemicals out there being used in products, neither list is exhaustive, but cover many of the blanket terms and most dangerous chemicals. Check out their ingredients lists and check the ewg.com ranking for the companies. Even cleaner companies and organic companies can have harmful chemicals in their products.
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 00:43:34
Yes, which is why I’m on a mission to out Greenwashers, maybe you haven’t seen my other works? https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/greenwashers/
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 00:43:36
Nick, I think you are missing the big picture regarding the true concern that is expressed with Ava Anderson. That is deceptive labeling. She can say, “It’s all about the ingredients”, however her past practice has been to deceptively label her products.
I am a label reader, who is always searching for the safest and most effective products for my family. I have tried many different natural, organic, and non-toxic brands. In the past, I purchased a lot of Ava Anderson products. I purchased them from a rep I respected and thought the world of. A rep that I identified with as we both had the same concerns for finding safe products for our family. I did what I was supposed to do as an educated consumer, I read the label and made an informed choice. I was so impressed with how Ava could make a natural shampoo that lathered like conventional shampoo, dish soap that filled my sink with bubbles with minimal ingredients, and perfume that smelled just like the expensive stuff they try to dose you with at department stores. I did my part as a smart consumer, I read the label and checked ingredients and those products made their way into my home because they passed my strict standards. What I failed to do was listen to my gut. If I would have listened to my gut, I would have heard it telling me those ingredients just don’t add up to the performance of the product. There is a reason why it lathers like a conventional product, there’s a reason why it smells like the phthalate filled synthetic fragrance, and there’s a reason why this company does not pursue the organic certification.
Since learning about Ava’s deceptive labeling from this blog regarding the zinc oxide in the diaper cream and the Geo Guard Ultra in the other products, I became suspicious but still used the products. It wasn’t until Ava announced their own line of USDA Certified Organic Essential Oils that my opinion completely changed. I followed a Facebook thread on Ava’s page and was alarmed at Kim Anderson’s responses, as well as the deletion of comments. Consumers were ecstatic to see Ava finally carrying USDA certification and began to ask questions about their certifying agencies. All things the company must legally supply when making a certified organic claim. The thread became a hot mess with Kim Anderson talking in circles claiming the products were USDA certified organic, then chastising the USDA certification in the next response.
Since that facebook thread, I took another look at those ingredients on my dish soap and discovered there is absolutely nothing in the ingredients that would explain how the product makes bubbles. I looked at my “100% essential oil” perfume and realized the ingredients listed as essential oils don’t even exist as an essential oil (ex. Vanilla). I took my perfume to an experienced aromatherapist and she was quickly able to point out with a sniff test that the fragrance was not from essential oils. This now totals 5 instances in which I am aware that Ava has deceptively labeled a product. I was duped! I did my part as a consumer, I read the ingredients. I have more respect for a company like Avon or Mary Kay that uses ingredients of concern but labels their product correctly, so I as a consumer can make an informed choice. What Ava has done is taken away my informed consent as a consumer. What is much more aggravating is they have done that under a premise of concern for my family’s well being.
I know there are reps out there who have built a healthy living selling Ava. For the most part, they are a lot like me, just wanting to find the safest products for their friends, customers and family. What those well intentioned reps don’t have is the ability to separate themselves from the company’s hoopla and ask the real questions, listen to their gut and approach a situation without defending. Certified organic or not, I just want companies to label truthfully. I’ll do the work as a consumer, but I can’t advocate for my family when I am being lied to on the label. 5 times you have done this, Ava!….you don’t deserve my dollars or anyone else’s that makes their families health their first priority.
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 11:55:35
Amen. MANY certified aromatherapists know the second they sniff the products they are using fragrance oils. Nick wants links. He wants proof. I have none at this time. Why? It costs tens of thousands of dollars to submit products to be tested to see if they match the label. Believe me, I want to launch a campaign to raise those funds, and then I’d have the proof. Until that happens, yes, it’s speculation, but more & more people are coming forward with EXACTLY your concerns Maria. They are not playing fair. If organic sea kelp extract made dish soap bubble like Dawn (which it does, they sent it to me to sample way back & it worked wayyyy too good for an organic soap, as you stated), then many more soapmakers would be using it. That is just not the case. I’m so, so sorry that you were duped, I know it feels HORRIBLE. But when you know better, you can do better. I want to THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to share your experience, it means a lot to me!
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 12:21:32
I’m not sure what has been with Ava. If what you say is true, it would have made headline news due to the legality concerns of falsely listing ingredients. It’s a federal crime and Ava would have likely been shut down. Especially if they later changed it. Where are the news articles? You don’t need scientific proof for something to make headline news. Also I’ve already shown you how vanilla essential oil is real with a link. You cannot use that excuse anymore. They did use that other stabilizer when they first started. Just like any company, they were trying to figure out how to make it shelf stable. Her problem is she needed to do it safely. She has changed that a while ago. She originally did not oversee the manufacturing of the products. She does now.
I find it interesting you claim her products work so well, yet a surfactant like kelp extract supposedly can’t foam up like dawn. Consider that when mixed with certain oils its viscosity and foaminess would be magnified. Seems she found the right balance.
Instead of spending thousands of dollars to dissect the product, federal inspectors can just go to the factory and demand the ingredients. By law they have to comply. All companies do, otherwise there would be no point in using blanket terms or greenwashing. They could all right out lie and nothing would happen.
I’m sorry to say that all companies are inspected generally in order to be a legal cosmetic company in the U.S. She cannot lie on the ingredients list without facing a threat of severe federal fines and jail time. It’s the law.
You may have a hard time accepting that, but I don’t think that she figured out how to be more savvy than the big companies like proctor and gamble and J and J. If they can’t lie on the ingredients list, neither can Ava.
We buy essential oils and Ava products. Our essential oils smell just like Ava’s scents.
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 12:37:44
Maybe you missed the link I shared that states there is no such thing as vanilla EO? “Caution should be given to any source that claims to offer Vanilla labeled Pure Essential Oil. The best advice to not be duped is to READ the description for the Vanilla being sold and find out if it is a Co2 select or total extract, solvent extracted Absolute, tincture, or dilution. Because of the cost (and strength) of a true Co2 Total extract or solvent extracted Absolute some sources will dilute a Co2 extract or Absolute to make it more affordable. This is an acceptable practice provided it is labeled accordingly, e.g. Vanilla Absolute 20% in Jojoba, Vanilla Co2 Total – 30% in Fractionated Coconut, and so forth. ” http://www.lgbotanicals.com/Vanilla-Pure-Essential-Oil–No-Such-Thing_b_27.html#.VdR3ih3bLzJ
I’ve talked to many, many soap makers, they don’t buy the ingredient lists for the dish soap or bubble bath for a single second. So yes, I’ll take their word over the notion that the Ava team came up with a miracle product. I’m becoming more & more in awe of your ability to defend every concern, I hope you will take some time to consider the notion that you just could be wrong, but I doubt that will happen
And your nose telling you that your EO’s match the Ava scents is not the point. Certified aromatherapists have trained noses, and they can smell scent oils a mile away. Again, you’re willing to defend Ava indefinitely, that’s fine. But that doesn’t make my & others concerns any less valid. Please, do me a favor & find out when was the last time the FDA came & inspected each of the facilities making Ava’s products, and please get me a copy of the reports that resulted from that. You’re all about links, and report, please provide some evidence that they have been inspected & the labels & ingredients verified. If this is true: “all companies are inspected generally”, show me the proof….
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Aug 19, 2015 @ 20:40:41
This thread is now closed for comments.
I hope you will take the time to get familiar with the huge assortment of resources this site offers, all shared with good will & intent.
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Jan 25, 2016 @ 19:16:57
So this article is very interesting to me considering I just joined Them. Their name is being changed, and we are not aloud to us the AA name. Here are a few points that were made out. We still have no indication as to why we are no longer able to use the name. Packaging, labels, all have to be redone.
From an email:
•As you know, we have added three highly respected scientists to our senior team, including a Senior Compounder, a Chief Chemist/Formulator (with years of experience at a top organic brand) and an Ingredient Efficacy Specialist, who is a PhD Researcher and a member of the teaching staff at Harvard Medical School. These scientists working with our manufacturing team are helping us ramp up quickly, using the very best and safest ingredients.
•We are also in the process of working towards USDA certification of our facility.
•Also underway is a thorough testing protocol to test every single ingredient coming in to our facility.
•We are awaiting the results of independent product testing and will share information when it becomes
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Jan 25, 2016 @ 21:36:10
I am/was a Ava Anderson consultant until today! With no notice the Anderson family has shut down the company! You can read their letter at avaandersonnontoxic.com
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Jan 26, 2016 @ 02:37:52
Wow. This is too bad because I find their products to be amazing. I have suffered from excema for a long time due to toxic chemicals in products and their products are the only ones I can use! I will continue to shop their products. Getting an organic label on your product is outrageously expensive and it ends up costing ‘natural, organic’ companies crazy $ when it isn’t necessary. Big names can do it because they have the profits. Their products are amazing!!!
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Jan 26, 2016 @ 05:04:02
Actually, it’s a lot more affordable than most think. It’s based on your revenue, and capped at $5mil+. I’ve read that AANT boasted $20mil in sales in 2014, the fees are a drop in the bucket. They didn’t get certified because they never could’ve, the money was an excuse. The USDA actually wants more companies to get certified & even has programs in place to help with the fees. I know several very small vendors who’ve gotten certified, it’s completely doable.
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Jan 26, 2016 @ 15:30:30
The Anderson family has chose to step away from the company but the company will stay open with a new name. Same great products that will be certified organic (the process has already started) and 95% of products made in house. We hope to have the ball rolling by February 1st. I can’t believe for s second that Ava actually knew that her products had synthetics in them. I do however think it strange how fast they pulled the plug and that the letter wasn’t from her who is a grown adult now but from her family…. I am s consultant and love Ava products and will continue to stand with my company.
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Jan 26, 2016 @ 06:44:34
You’ve been right all along. 🙂 Great job. Never stop. They decided to shut the company down, start it back up with new owners/current employees, and slap another label/name on it. My up line is/was Kirsten Ransom Finley. She is related to the Anderson family by marriage. It’s sad they have dragged their extended family into this lie and they are swallowing it whole. On Kirsten’s Facebook page, she’s all excited that Ava Anderson is getting a NEW NAME and bringing all their products in house. She forgot to tell everyone they CLOSED DOWN FOR GOOD OVERNIGHT WITHOUT NOTICE because it was discovered they were selling a lie due to the toxic findings in their products. They were unwilling to expose the truth about their toxic findings to the public or on any social forum. Corporate stated they just felt social media wasn’t the best place to inform the public. They requested all consultants remain silent, too. You know, as they say, To protect the brand they have ALL worked so hard to build and protect. The company shut down overnight without any prior warning *unless you’ve been watching the signs all along *then you knew they were going down*, have refused to offer consultants/customers their money back, and actually sold the products and positive image of their company up until the moment they closed and sent everyone a letter via email. They had the ability to do what was right from the beginning. Be honest, open, learn from their mistakes, and make things right. However, they decided to jump ship and leave the less than wealthy abandoned at sea, hanging on to their Ava Anderson Non Toxic-TOXIC products. I should correct that statement, Ava Anderson isn’t jumping ship…she’s on a yacht on her Facebook profile photo with her hand in the air, feeling the breeze of all the gullible ignorance swirling around her. She’s sailing carefree with everyone else’s money waiting for her next money pot to reopen! What will she name it? It’s anyone’s guess. Let’s wait and see!
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Jan 26, 2016 @ 06:48:48
I’m confused, Katie. You’ll shop under their new name, right? The Ava Anderson company no longer exists. Let’s see how long it takes them to open their new company with the same products, just another label. The timing will shine light on how long this has been in the works. Remember, they needed to wait and suck in all the extra money from the Walt Disney World trip last week before sending the SHUT DOWN “I’m bullied and clueless” email to everyone. Timing is everything.
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Jan 28, 2016 @ 07:45:25
Great write up! I used to love them.. Until I was using AvaScent to find out its filled with toxins, Hand Santizier that is mislabeled and sold as hand santizer & is not! Love the products but it’s so sad that it ended this way. Funny how their new executives worked for toxic companies before. I think they care about money & money. I was shocked this week!! I use the baby products everyday! Was also told the organic oils I bought a few months back are not certified organic, BUT STATED CERTIFIED organic when I bought them. It’s sad she let money take over the vision. I’ll certainly use up my product but will not purchase anything more or support an unethical & untrustworthy business.
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Jan 29, 2016 @ 12:45:49
You SLANDER others to promote your own line! It is clear you are the owner of Poofy.
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Jan 29, 2016 @ 18:28:52
You are completely incorrect. I, Jessica Brandt, the owner of this page & whistleblower in this case am an independent Poofy Guide since 6/2014. Kristina Wilson is the owner of Poofy Organics, totally unrelated to this page.
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