Ingredient Certifications

Our ingredients are the healthiest and freshest Ingredients from the best farms and sources in the world. We have a lot to say about what it takes to make the A-Grade for inclusion into a Stephen James Luxury Organics product.

Certifications assure you our products set the highest standards anywhere
.

Organic

The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) defines organic as follows:


Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.


OneCert

International Organic Standards includes six international standards for organic certification:

* USDA National Organic Program (NOP)
* European Organic Regulations (EC 834/2007)
* Japan Agricultural Standards (JAS)
* India National Standards for Organic Products (India NSOP)
* Canadian Organic Product Regulation (COPR)
* Quebec Organic Reference Standard (CAAQ)


Earth Kosher

The entire line of bars and bar ingredients offered by Stephen James Luxury Organics are Kosher certified by Earth Kosher.

Vegan Certified

Stephen James Luxury Organics products are certified Vegan under Earth Kosher’s Vegan Verified program. They inspect facilities and ingredients on a regular basis and have absolute confidence that these products contain no ingredients that are of an animal source or derivative.

The Buddha was once quoted saying that the best way to use words in describing the truth was through negation. By explaining what it was not, he would leave the questioner to intuitively realize his/her own enlightened nature.

What Our Bars Are NOT


We thought it might be good to answer some of our friends’ questions as to what Stephen James bars are NOT:
They are not created from nutritionist ideology.



"Nutritionism" (not in Webster's)



Defined recently in Michael Pollan's book "In Defense of Food." He makes it evident that we may have become blinded by the ideology of "nutritionism".

"In the case of nutritionism", Pollan scribes, "the widely shared but unexamined assumption is that the key to understanding food is indeed the nutrient. Put another way: Foods are essentially the sum of their nutrient parts. From this basic premise flow several others. Since nutrients, as compared with other foods, are invisible and therefore slightly mysterious, it falls to scientists (and to the journalists through whom the scientists reach the public) to explain the hidden reality of food to us. In form this is a quasi-religious idea, suggesting the visible world is not the one that really matters, which implies the need for a priest-hood. For to enter a world where your dietary salvation depends on unseen nutrients, you need plenty of expert help." Pollan expresses our views well: Finding the middle way of the whole foods message is what we are all about.

• No added chemicals, coloring agents, or artificial flavoring.
• No added "Vitamins" (which are usually inorganic and not very assimilable).
• No added "Aminos". Our aminos come in a living package: Nature's nuts and seeds.
• No added "fatty acids" such as Omega 3, Omega 6, DHA, etc. These oils when added to food look good on the package list but are generally rancid and don't boost nutrition, but instead increase the tendency for weight gain. The fatty acids in Stephen James bars are naturally occurring and plentiful, coming from Living Energy pre-sprouted flax, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, brazil nuts, and walnuts. They are present in their own “mothership”. Separately analyzed, they are a wonderful mix of omega 3, 6 and 9, but in nature's own package.
• No fillers: So many bars are made with high amounts of (up to 70% in some cases) fillers that make them the nutritional equivalent of a candy bar. Fillers only add to the manufacturer's bottom line and to your own waistline.
• No soy: "About 90% of all soy is genetically modified (GMO). Soy is also one of the top seven food allergens and is widely known to cause hyper-sensitivity reactions. While in the last 40 years soy has occupied an important place in the transition to healthier diets, it is time to upgrade our food choice to one having more benefits and fewer negative possibilities" - Gabriel Cousens, M.D., "The Tree of Life 21 Day + Program"
• No dairy products: We add no milks, cheeses, yoghurts or egg products
• Not cooked: Cooking nuts and seeds kills their life-force and causes the delicate fatty acids and proteins to "fold". This makes for a "full" feeling simply because they are difficult to digest.
• Not raw: Raw nut/seed bars have not had their inhibitors deactivated. This causes problems for digestion and can interfere with the absorption of minerals. Only soaking/wetting with water for 6 or more hours can deactivate the powerful inhibitors.
• No “Drag”: Whether you are an athlete or are recovering from a serious illness or you just want to feel better, “drag” caused in the body by difficult or slowed digestion causes a cascade of effects such as immune system response and blood acidosis. Being “drag-free” is critical to any aspirations of improved health and well-being.
• Not extraction process/mass produced: Many bars are made from a cookie-cutter/dough process and are mass produced. Stephen James bars are individually crafted by our chefs.
• Not Constipating. Yes, that’s right! They won’t bind you up. The pre-sprouted flax seed of all our bars are digestion enhancing. This helps you feel trimmer, healthier, and more comfortable throughout your day. This is “living” fiber; fiber at it’s best.
• No added minerals: Adding inorganic minerals like calcium and potassium might sound good, but again it is difficult for the body to recognize this form of mineral. Stephen James bars naturally occurring minerals are still in their "mothership": the nuts, seeds, fruits and herbs that they rode in on.
• No added "Whey": Whey is a controversial addition to energy and nutrition bars that carries the potential for an allergen reaction to cow’s milk. Whey is also very mucus forming, as it is a by-product of milk processing.
• No sugar: No sugar added. We use organic coconut flower nectar and raw organic fruits for our sweeteners.
• No peanuts: Our kitchens process no peanuts or peanut products.
• No Gluten: No grain products are used. No wheat, no oats, no gluten (Oats do not contain gluten but they are often processed with wheat and are therefore often tainted by it).
• Not a cereal bar: Cereal bars are generally cooked and filler-laden. Usually contain gluten.
• Not made in a laboratory or factory: We work with what nature provides us. The best ingredients then can naturally make the best bar for you. All Stephen James bars are produced individually with our proprietary process in the "Macau Kitchens". Our kitchens provide us with the advantage of using ancient Taoist techniques blended with modern drying and packaging technology.
• Not made with too many ingredients: Some bar makers, through best intentions, make a bar with a list of good ingredients that is a mile long. But great chefs, mothers and traditional Chinese medicine specialists generally agree: simple ingredients, synergetic mixes, and attentive preparation make for the best tasting and healthiest results. Too many ingredients cause confusion on the tongue and in the body.
• No Pesticides: Only made with organic and natural ingredients from the best farms and sources on earth.
• No Preservatives: Our process preserves the bar's goodness naturally.
• No Chemical Salt: We only use Saffron-Pink Himalayan Salt in our mixes. This salt is pure, natural, healthy and contains 84 trace minerals.
• Not Fortified: "Fortified" generally means that a chemically produced food/nutrient synalogue has been added to the bar. This defines "processed" and is certainly not natural or organic. Adding these types of chemicals can throw off the delicate balance of micronutrients in your body.
• No 'AGEs' (Advanced Glycosylating End Products) Glycosylation are built up in the body over time and cause oxidative stress, they are increased with high blood sugar and poor insulin control. Outside the body, it’s the browning effect of high-heat cooking which causes these molecules to form, putting strain on your internal organs when consumed. A moderate HDL fat intake can counteract high blood sugar levels, and in turn AGEs (Gabriel Cousens, Spiritual Nutrition). Extra reading: Neeper et al., 1992, Journal of Biological Chemistry.
• No Acrylamides: This one’s a no-brainer.  Acrylamides are toxins found in tobacco, and fats exposed to high heating, that accumulate in the body, putting strain on the liver and other vital organs.

Açai Berries

Grow on a species of palm indigenous to Central and South America. Contains beta-sitosterol, which reduce LDL cholesterol.

Almonds

Almonds originate from the Middle East and South Asia, and although are commonly misperceived as nuts, they are in fact, seeds. They are a very rich source of Vitamin E, an excellent source for B-complex vitamins, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc. Make sure to activate their Living Energy (soak them overnight) if you get ahold of them raw.

Apples

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is not just s saying. Apples are amazing fruits to keep your body clean from the inside out. Firstly, like other fruits they contain plenty of dietary fibre, which helps out your dietary tract, especially with weight loss; but apples can keep your skin clean and healthy too!

Basil

Known by the Ancients as good for the heart. 
Antioxidant, anti-bacterial. 

Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with a range of powerful antioxidants, some of which inhibit the spread of cancer cells, whilst others help with inflammations and repairing the body. They are high in Vitamins C, K and the mineral Manganese; but also have a healthy helping of many other vitamins and minerals!

Botija Olives

The highest ranking fruit in terms of minerals; calcium and magnesium especially. 
An alkaline source of plant fat. Perfect for building a beautiful, strong body. 
The highest mucus-dissolving qualities of any fruit.

Brazil Nuts

The richest food source of selenium, known as the “anti-Alzheimer’s” mineral. 
Contains relatively hard to acquire amino acid methionine (among nuts is only present in Brazil Nuts). Methionine is essential in fighting chronic illness and premature aging. 
High in fiber and omega 6 oils. To activate their Living Energy, they should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation.

Calimyrna Figs

Powerful detoxifier. 
One of the most alkalizing foods. 
Intestinal cleanser, promotes healthy bowel function. 
Contains “pectin”, a soluble fiber which mops up cholesterol as it transits the digestive system. The fiber in figs also helps to reduce weight and is recommended for any slimming program. 
Historically known as a treatment for sexual weakness.

Cashew Nuts

Another highly concentrated zinc source. 
Great for the complexion. Rich in beautifying omega 3, 6, 9. 
When in our pre-sprouted, Living Energy state, their skin enhancement properties are amazing. 
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation.

Cherries

Known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as one of the relatively few “warming” fruits. 

Increases Qi activity. 

A well known remedy for gout, arthritis and rheumatism.

Coconut Flower Nectar

Made from the sweet sap that drips from the cut buds of the coconut flower (not made from the water inside the coconut). 
Very low glycemic index.
(35, lower than agave nectar and honey) 
Low calorie, a perfect sweetener for those who want a long, slow energy boost but want to stay slim as well. 
Extremely rich in potassium. 
We have more to share about Coconut Flower Nectar here on this page.

Cranberries

A close relative of the blueberry, this superfood packs quite the antioxidant punch! Cranberries are high in the mineral Manganese and in Vitamins A, C and K. The antioxidants they contain help heal urinary tract infections, and have anti-cancer properties, whilst their high molecular weight may prevent tooth decay.

Fresh Lemons

According to Dr. David Jubb lemons are one of the six mono-atomic sources of food (super-energy state food). 
Helps prevent cold and flu with its famous high vitamin C content. 
Vitamin P in lemons strengthens the blood vessels. It is therefore highly useful in dealing with blood pressure. 
A blessing for the respiratory system. Sir. Edmund Hillary was quoted as saying that his victory over Mt. Everest was greatly due to lemons. 



Fresh Limes

Excellent source of vitamin C.
Contains phyto-chemicals that are high in anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. 
Strong anti-biotic effects. 
Contains the important phyto-chemical limonene. 
Limes and other citrus fruits have been associated with reducing cholesterol.

Ginger

One of the five essential elements for balancing the Chinese 5 Element System. 
It's warming properties have a therapeutic effect
against colds and flu.

Golden Flax Seeds

One of the best and most assimilable sources of protein. 
Flax seed is very high in omega 3 oils, a basic building block in the human body for many of its functions. 
Contains special fibers called lignins, which build the immune system and are anti-cancer, anti-viral and anti-fungal.
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted, giving you Living Energy.
We have more to share about Flax Seeds here on this page below.

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are high in oleic acid (omega 9), a monounsaturated fatty acid that helps to lower cholesterol.
Hazelnuts lower blood pressure because of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. 
Hazelnuts contain cardioprotective arginine, an amino acid that relaxes blood vessels.

Incan Berries

Incan berries have been used to treat a multitude of diseases and health problems for centuries. It is fabled that they were used to treat everything from cancer, to asthma, to rheumatism. Now we have the technology to see what’s inside, we find plenty of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and melatonin; which all work to counteract oxidative stress on the body!

Lucuma

Lucuma is a subtropical fruit native to Peru, Ecuador and Chile. It's bright yellow flesh made Lucuma known as the Gold of the Incas. The luscious sweet flavor of the fruit is so popular it is the best selling ice cream in Peru! Lucumas contain significant amounts of potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Its anti-inflammatory properties made this fruit a traditional remedy for several ailments. Skin problems such as wounds and wrinkles have shown to decrease significantly more when supplemented with Lucuma.

Medjool Dates

Enables smooth digestion. A “laxative” food. 
The nicotine content in dates is said to be beneficial for curing any kind of intestinal disorder. 
Reputed to enhance sexual stamina. 
High in natural fiber. 
Great source of phosphorous which is needed by the higher thinking centers of the brain. 
One of the best energy-boosting snacks. 

Nori

Nutmeg

Nutmeg has several beneficial psychological effects on the body. For instance, it is recommended to people with insomnia, anxiety, attention deficit, and male impotence. This spice helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, whilst improving circulation and digestion.

Oregano

Has been used historically by the Ancient Romans as an herbal remedy to treat respiratory disorders. 
Anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic.

Pecans

Pecans are a rich sources of energy and contain minerals like manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. They also contain protein, healthy fat, vitamin-E, beta-carotene and important B-complex vitamins. Although normally hard to digest, our pre-sprouting process assures you'll get everything your body needs without slowing your digestion. Best when pre-sprouted/soaked, giving you Living Energy.

Pumpkin Seeds

High in Zinc, good for the prostate, shown to have positive effects on BPH.
Pumpkin seeds are a true aphrodisiac because in men they pump the prostate full of Zinc, build seminal fluid and increase sperm count. In women they build hormones, activate the sexual organs and increase sexual fluid secretions. 
Zinc content is also excellent for promoting clear skin. When present it is a natural antibiotic for the pores. 
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation, giving you Living Energy.

Raspberries

Known in Traditional Chinese Medicine to enrich the blood and detoxify, treats anemia. 
Flavonoids called anthocyanins (which give them their rich red color) prevent candida. 
Also known as a regulator of the menstrual cycle. 
Antioxidants include a high amount of ellagic acid, which protects cells from damage. 
A rich source of magnesium and vitamin C.

Raw Cacao

Raw cacao is delicious and contains high levels of magnesium, iron, chromium, manganese and zinc.
It has powerful mood enhancing properties which work to alleviate feelings of depression and negativity.
Cacao helps the body function holistically. Magnesium in particular is great for the heart and circulatory system. With this in mind it is not surprising that the Aztecs used to refer to cacao as yollotl eztli. This literally means 'heart blood.'

Rosemary

Has a long medicinal history dating back to the ancient Romans and Greeks. 
Contains carnosic acid (CA) which fights off free radical damage in the brain (known to protect memory). 
As Shakespeare wrote: “There’s rosemary: that’s for rememberance.” 

Saffron-Pink Himalayan Salt


Contains a rainbow of 84 bio-available minerals in its natural crystal matrix. 
A virtual “software program” for the body to balance its mineral needs. 
This special salt balances body pH. Health resides in the pH balance of the body. 
Read more about our Saffron-Pink Himalayan Salt.



Sencha Tea Leaves

Anti-aging (High in Vitamin E and C). 
Anti-asthma helps keep lungs clear. 
Anti-microbial. 
Promotes healthy, clear skin.

Strawberries

Are not actually berries, but are accessory fruits; and the “seeds” you see, are not actually seeds, but the plant’s ovaries, each containing seeds. They are overflowing with vitamin C: 1 cup is more than 100% of your DRI. The perfect food to eat during flu season!

Sunflower Seeds

High in Zinc (must be raw), so good for the skin. 
Rich in potassium: helps to lower blood pressure. 
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation, giving you Living Energy.

Sun-dried Tomatoes

Silicon rich (good for the skin). 
Very high in lycopenes (red carotene) 
Excellent source of vitamin C. 
A potent blood purifier and detoxifier.

Thompson Raisins

A great source of boron, a micro-nutrient which is essential for bone health. 
A good source of magnesium and potassium. 
Very good for eye health. 
A good source of resveratrol. 
Stimulates libido, primarily due to the amino acid arginine. 

Unhulled Sesame Seeds

High in magnesium, a vitally important mineral that is destroyed when food is cooked. 
High in copper which when deficient in the diet can lead to early graying of the hair. 
The active magnesium along with a high calcium content is a perfect combination for bone strength and bone building.
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation, giving you Living Energy.

Vanilla Bean

A natural stress reliever. 
Anti-cancer, high in anti-oxidants. 
A menstrual cycle regulator which also has aphrodisiac properties.

Walnuts

Excellent source of omega-3s.  Rich in protein, vitamin B, vitamin E and magnesium, calcium, potassium and manganese. 
Known in the Far East as being essential for brain development and peak mental functioning. 
Rich in fiber. 
Rich in tryptophan, can help to fight depression.
Should be soaked/pre-sprouted for maximum assimilation, giving you Living Energy.

"Wherever flaxseed becomes a regular food item among the people, there will be better health"
~ Mahatma Gandhi

Organic Flax Seeds vs. “Fish Oils”


Here are five advantages that pre-sprouted flax seeds (the basis for all of our bars) have as a natural, healthy oil source over fish oil.


Flax seed contains 18-24 percent omega-3, as compared with the low content found in fish of only 0-2 percent. Omega-3 is a basic building block in the human body for many functions, only one of which is to make EPA (eicosa pentaenoic acid). EPA is one of several kinds of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils. Fish oil doesn’t supply omega-3; it supplies the EPA and therefore limits the body’s options to make what it needs from the omega-3. Thus, the omega-3 of flax seed is a more flexible nutritional source than the high EPA found in fish oil.)

• Fiber comes from flax seeds. Fish has no fiber. Flax also contains lignans which are associated with reduced rates of colon and breast cancer
• Fish and fish oil are high in cholesterol.
• Fish are often high in toxic residues because they live in polluted waters. Toxins are concentrated in the oils of the fish.
• Fish oil is rich in Vitamins A and D, which can be toxic in high doses ( they are oil soluble and build up in the body). Please note that the vitamin A in plant food is in the form of provitamin carotene, which does not build up toxins like animal sourced vitamin A.

Our Himalayan Salt

Saffron-Pink Himalayan Salt 

Its taste is soft and splendid. It adds dimension to any food you’re working with. This salt has a pleasant WOW factor, melting softly in your mouth.

“Saffron-Pink” refers to its special pink-orange color – the result of a unique combination of bio-available iron and a kaleidoscope of natural organic minerals contained in a crystal matrix.

The crystals are arranged in a lattice made by nature over hundreds of millions of years. They perfectly align themselves with the living crystal water which naturally exists in your body.

Our own laboratory has identified a rainbow of 84 essential minerals in this salt. The particles of these minerals are tiny (angstrom-sized). They have the ability to enhance the cells of your body that need it, and pass through those that don’t. Your cells are smart! They take what they need to thrive if you give them the chance.

Crystals carry information as well as energy. You could call this “intelligent” salt, which has your best interests in mind, helping you to maintain your good health.

Himalayan Salt is known in the East for stimulating circulation and balancing blood pressure. Hence, it can help you keep the “pink” in your cheeks.

If you are a Master Chef, your abilities and talents will be enhanced by using Saffron-Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt. This is a priceless food preparation secret.

Coconut Flower Nectar

After 3 years of testing various sweetening modalities (honey, agave, etc.) we found that not only is coconut flower nectar’s taste superior, but it is better for you. Our goal was to create the world’s tastiest, as well as, healthiest energy/snack bar.

Macro-Micro Nutritional Information

The Philippine Food and Nutrition Research Institute released the information about their analysis of nutritive values found in coconut flower nectar. The original comparison only contained coconut nectar, brown sugar and refined white sugar. To give you a broader picture we compared light agave syrup, honey and maple syrup. 

Coconut flower nectar is loaded with minerals. It also comes in at about 35 on the GI (glycemic index), whereas, below 55 is considered good. This compares favorably with honey and agave nectar. Low GI diets have been shown to be useful in preventing diabetes and have an anti-aging effect.

Micro-Macro Nutritional Information

The Philippine Food and Nutrition Institute released the following about their analysis of nutritive values found in Coconut Flower Nectar.

Remember that data can change from product to product and batch to batch and season to season. This is an averaging of available data bases. We do feel that this provides a reliable and authentic comparison.

Sources: Comparison of the elemental content of 3 sources of edible sweetener – Analyzed PCA TAL Sept 11, 2000 (MI secretaria et al, 2003) In parts per million (PPP or mg/l) www.nutritiondata.com