Happy

Earth Day 2011!

Declare your commitment to a preserving the planet by using all-natural products all year long

Sure. You recycle. You conserve natural resources by turning off lights when not in use, in addition to using those screwy-looking bulbs that use less wattage. You take shorter showers, and don’t run the dish washer unless it is completely full.

This year, why not take your conservation goals up another notch or two? You can do so with the help of J.R. Watkins, one of this country’s first “green” companies. 

For more than 140 years, Watkins has been one of America´s pioneers in natural living, using only the finest natural ingredients in its products.  Whether you are looking for personal care, home care or gourmet food products, Watkins has what you want to feel better and live healthier, AND protect the planet at the same time.

J.R. Watkins Naturals are produced using ingredients made from renewable resources, avoiding chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. It is one of the very few companies in the United States and Canada certified by the Natural Products Association.  To gain certification, products must be formulated with at least 95% natural ingredients from renewable resources. Watkins is one of the first companies in the United States and Canada to gain this coveted certification.  

Back in the 1860s, people on the Minnesota prairie didn't have ready access to doctors, and most couldn't afford to see one anyway.  J.R. Watkins Apothecary provided quality products folks could rely on to make them feel better and keep them feeling better. And unlike some of the "snake oil" vendors out there, J.R. backed his products with a money-back guarantee.

Of course, Watkins wasn’t the only apothecary company back then - but it’s the only one left!  With Watkins, you don't just get a glimpse into the past; you get real tried-and-true products that have been helping people for more than 140 years.

Watkins proudly formulates with natural raw materials such as:

• Menthol
• Capsicum
• Thymol
• Eucalyptus Oil

Natural Freedom Code - 95% Natural and Above:

• Benzene Free
• Boron Free
• Dye Free
• Formaldehyde Free
• Isopropanol Free
• Paraben Free
• Phthalate Free
• DEA/TEA Free
• Propylene Glycol Free
• Silicone Free
• Sulfate Free

They are also:

• Biodegradable
• Non-toxic
• Not tested on animals

Natural cleaners have also been a large part of its diverse product mix as far back as 1917, when the company first introduced Natural Vegetable Oil Soap made with pure vegetable oils and no animal bi-products, fillers or colors. Almost a century ago its advertisements boasted "Just pure soap, that's all"... and "Pure enough to eat!" As globally-minded as its customers, Watkins now aims to make household chores a little easier with its newest line of J.R. Watkins Natural Home Care cleaning products. Made with refreshing lemon and lavender oils and highly effective plant derived surfactants, Watkins diverse line of cleaners are safe and effective for your home and your family.

Responsible manufacturing processes are as important as its commitment to providing natural, consumable items for everyday life. By utilizing gravity-fed filling, biodegradable packing materials, as well as recycling programs and much more, Watkins is devoted to leaving the smallest environmental footprint possible.

As we tell folks who stop by the Big Bear Farmer’s Market and ask us about Watkins’ commitment to quality and the environment, any company that has been around for more than 140 years must be doing something right! You could almost call Watkins itself a natural resource!