Recently I decided my brain needed a news break and I’ve been listening to Spotify- the free version.  I’ve enjoyed how their playlist or "radio" takes you from a familiar artist to a new one but the ads can be super annoying.  One in particular that I've heard a thousand times is pitching a hand sanitizer designed in an aerodynamic bird shape.  It’s a plastic bird that squirts sanitizer.  The sanitizer is made with only “conscious ingredients”. WTF is a conscious ingredient?  To be conscious is to be aware of one’s environment.   We pick flowers and dry them to use in our skin care products but I never think of a dried flower petal as being a conscious ingredient. 

When a company sits down and makes a list of adjectives that appeal to a certain type of customer it’s called “green washing”.  It can be very effective.  When we hear certain words- reusable, refillable, clean fragrances we use our frame of reference and values to make a decision about a product.  Green washing happens in the world of beauty and fashion, and its insidious.  When you are getting ready to make a purchase, pause, because how we spend our money is a vote for the world we want to inhabit.

We had the chance to shop European awhile back.  That’s how we discovered Ritonka Chocolate from Austria.  I’m guessing the chocolate will only be available for a limited time due to world circumstances and while the ingredients aren’t “conscious” they are extraordinary.  The bars are beautiful and have unique garden based flavors and include many of our favorite flowers.  Rose, Marigold, Bee Balm, Cornflower and more.  We have dark, milk and white chocolate bars.  Honestly, I am not a fan of white chocolate, in general, it’s just too sweet.  Ritonka’s white chocolate bar is yummy!  It’s topped with lavender buds- it's not an overly floral, soapy taste but instead a delightful crunch. The dried black currents  give the bar a cool sour explosion in your mouth. 

We take time and care with our products but also with researching products made by other companies.  We love to discover new brands that are making  thoughtful decisions when creating.  It’s quite a bit of work because we have high standards and values.  We know you will enjoy this chocolate, it’s a perfect Easter or spring basket goody or just a treat for yourself. 

Let us know what you think about "conscious ingredients" or your favorite way to eat flowers.