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Realfoodology

Fighting Against Toxic Chemicals, Eating Organic, + Government Regulations | Ken Cook of the EWG

Jul 30, 2024
01:10:47

EP. 206: In today's episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Ken Cook, the president and cofounder of the Environmental Working Group, or EWG. You might know them for their Skin Deep database that helps you check the safety of household and skincare products, or their tap water database—both of which I've relied on for years. Ken and I explore how EWG is tackling the growing problem of toxins in our daily lives and discuss practical steps we can take to make safer choices. Plus, Ken shares some incredible actionable advice on how we can influence regulatory changes for the better. Don't miss this insightful conversation about safeguarding our health and making a difference!


Topics Discussed


  • 08:26 - EWG & healthcare professionals
  • 10:45 - EWG’s databases 
  • 14:53 - Legal doesn’t equal safe 
  • 18:50 - The FDA & brominated vegetable oil 
  • 21:21 - It takes science 17 years to catch up 
  • 22:34 - Studying dangerous chemicals & industry pushback
  • 25:34 - Centering people in the regulatory process 
  • 32:07 - Consumer impact and organic products 
  • 37:25 - The cultural impact of environmental health 
  • 38:38 - Products that you don’t know are having an effect on your health 
  • 42:11 - Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good 
  • 44:42 - Choosing safer options 
  • 50:05 - Regulation & lobbying 
  • 56:08 - Calling your representative 
  • 58:22 - Staying motivated and positive 
  • 01:02:20 - The people making change 
  • 01:05:51 - Ken’s health non-negotiables


Check Out The Environmental Working Group



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Produced By: Drake Peterson

Edited By: Mike Frey

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