Tips for a Toxic-Free Halloween

Halloween is such a festive time for children and adults alike.

But nowadays, there are so many chemicals and artificial ingredients and colors in candy, not to mention the chemicals in costumes, make-up and body paints.

In this segment, Ron and Lisa Beres join Andrea and Lisa to share some tips for enjoying a non-toxic, non-wasteful Halloween.

Tip #1
If just half of the kids in the U.S. swapped costumes amongst each other instead of buying brand new, off-the-rack costumes from retail stores, we could save 6,250 tons -- the approximate weight of 2,500 mid-size cars -- from our landfills.

Tip #2
Plastic pumpkins generate more than 10 million tons of plastic waste each year, so opt for real pumpkins. You can reuse the insides of pumpkins for roasted seeds or desserts and soups. Go to your local farmer's market for your pumpkins, or if you're able, grow your own.

Tip #3
Avoid toxic Halloween body paints and make-up, which can emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). VOCs affect both the environment in terms of pollution and your health. Look for non-toxic options.

Tip #4
Choose cups and plates for your Halloween parties that are made from renewable resources.

Tip #5
Make sure you're serving organic chocolate candies, if at all possible. There are actually a number of brands that carry organic versions of the "typical" candy choices.

Listen in to learn more about which specific brands the experts like, as well as a few more tips for making your Halloween as healthy as it can be.