Label Fun in the Summer Sun!

Labels Make for Safe Summer Fun!

It’s summer, and you probably have a lot of things on your mind. Things like the beach, popsicles, ice cream, fireworks, pool days, relaxing, and BBQs. If so, there is something else you should be thinking about: LABELS!

Summer is a time for fun, but it’s also a great time to make sure you are paying attention to labels that can keep you and your family safe and healthy.

Sunscreen labels are important

Not all sunscreens are created equally and you may be getting tricked by the label on yours. It’s not too late! Now is the time to take notice of sunscreen labels. Notice I said sunscreen, not sun block. That is because it is now against regulations to market it as sun block. Also no longer allowed, are “sweat-proof” and “water-proof” sunscreens. There is no product that blocks all UV rays, and there are no products that won’t need to be re-applied during a day of swimming.

Did you know some sunscreens contain harmful, potentially carcinogenic chemicals that get absorbed into one’s skin? I guess you now want to know what to look for, and what to avoid in sunscreens. Keep in mind though, that companies have until December of this year to get their products updated.  Check here for information about which chemicals to avoid and a list of best and worst sunscreens. And, as far as babies go, it’s actually best to avoid using sunscreen on them. Instead, keep babies out of direct sunlight.

Labels to look for when having a cookout

How about BBQs? That’s a bit more fun than sunscreen, right? I hope you get to enjoy plenty of fun summer cookouts with your family and friends. For those who like burgers and steaks on the grill, there is important label news for you too!

Meat labels may be a little trickier than you thought, but thanks to us you will soon know exactly what to look for. Important words to look for on the label are “hormone free” and “antibiotic free,” “free range,” and “certified organic.”

Some words that are frequently used on meat labels don’t carry much meaning. These are words that have no legal definitions in regards to using them on labels, or they are words that apply to all meats in general. These words are essentially meaningless on meat labels: “grass-fed” (implies the animal has eaten grass at some point), “humanely raised,” “local,” and “sustainable.”  You can read more about meat labels here.

Fireworks labels are important!

Who doesn’t love fireworks?! Fireworks can bring fun and excitement to a summer gathering, but only if they are used safely.  Make sure to read these safety tips if you will be using fireworks. It is very important to buy legal fireworks which will have a clear label with instructions as well as the manufacturer’s name. The label will also have information regarding safe storage of unused fireworks. Even if you think you know how to properly use the fireworks, make sure to review the label closely, and then enjoy the show!

I LOVE labels, but that doesn’t mean I want to EAT them!

One of my favorite things about summer is the abundance of yummy fruits and vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and it always leads to much more inspired cooking on my part than in the dreary winter months. I have a few tips to best enjoy your summer fruits and vegetables.

It’s very important to be careful to properly clean these fresh foods before enjoying them, also making sure to remove any labels at that time. Taking a few minutes to wash produce will get rid of most pesticides and bacteria. The best way to make sure that your produce is clean and healthy for you to eat is to rinse thoroughly with water and then spray with a mixture of 3 cups of water and 1 cup of white distilled vinegar. Then rinse again and eat raw or prepare your produce in some of my favorite ways.

I hope you have a fantastic summer full of fun! Keep in mind these important summer label tips to keep yourself and your family safely having fun in the sun.  For fun summer ideas take a look at our QuickLabel Pinterest boards.