There is a new organization that aims to form a coalition of natural, organic and “green” product manufacturers and retailers, while educating consumers – the non-profit Natural Advisory Council (NAC).  

The NAC will advocate for consumer protection legislation to define the term “natural,” and foster collaboration within the industry to create a meaningful standard for natural products. Public education and engagement will also play an important role in the council’s advocacy efforts.

The NAC’s Founder, Jessica Iclisoy

The NAC was founded this month by Jessica Iclisoy, founder and CEO of natural skincare brand California Baby. (Iclisoy is shown above.)

Iclisoy comments, “As the popularity of “natural” and “green” products has skyrocketed, so has the proliferation of green washing via clever labeling and misleading brand names. Our aim is to create real, meaningful and lasting change in the naturals market, and ensure that consumers are armed with the information they need to make informed purchases.”

Iclisoy has been a pioneer in the natural skincare industry for more than 20 years, and consistently maintains a level of control over her products, from farm, to bottle, to shelf. California Baby owns and operates an FDA-registered, certified organic, solar powered and sustainable manufacturing facility in Los Angeles, as well as an organic farm where organic calendula flowers and other botanicals are grown.

The NAC’s Board

Iclisoy is joined on the NAC board by Dr. Jan Jänichen, managing director of Dr. Straetmans GmbH, and Christopher H. Johnson, founder of Kinetik Technologies.

Dr. Jänichen brings 20 years of research and development experience to the NAC board. He graduated as an organic chemist from the University of Hamburg, and completed his post-doctorate work at Stanford University.

Johnson has worked with cosmetic ingredients for more than 20 years. He earned his BS in Biology from Rowan University, while simultaneously achieving certification to teach biological sciences.