Cosmetic Brands: Are Your “Natural” or “Organic” Claims Actually Legal?

In this short video, FDA compliance attorney Lisa Capote of Capote Law Firm covers natural and organic labeling claims for cosmetic brands. Watch below, then read the full transcript.

Full Transcript

“Natural” and “organic” are among the most popular marketing claims in the beauty industry — but misusing them can expose your brand to regulatory risk. Under federal law, “organic” claims on cosmetic products must comply with USDA National Organic Program (NOP) certification standards. Using “organic” without certification is not just misleading — it can trigger FTC and USDA enforcement.

“Natural” is different. The FDA has not formally defined “natural” for cosmetics, but claims must not mislead consumers. If your formula contains synthetic preservatives, artificial fragrances, or petrochemical-derived ingredients, calling it “100% natural” is risky and could trigger enforcement.

Before printing your next batch of labels, review every claim touching “natural,” “organic,” “clean,” or “pure.” A proactive label review is far less expensive than a warning letter, class action, or recall.

👉 Contact Capote Law Firm today for expert guidance on cosmetic labeling claims and FDA compliance.