Precision Scoring: The R3 Scientific Framework

Our multi-axis scoring methodology integrates toxicological risk assessment, evidence-tiering for efficacy, and lifecycle value analysis.

Updated: 2026-02-06Intent: informationalUnique words: 290

Answer First

The R3 Scientific Framework evaluates products across three weighted dimensions: Safety (40% - quantified via toxicological hazard indexing), Efficacy (30% - validated by hierarchical evidence-tiering), and Value (30% - assessed via lifecycle cost analysis). We prioritize cumulative exposure risk over mere regulatory compliance, often benchmarking against the world's strictest standards (EU REACH) rather than just US EPA/FDA minimums.

Safety: Toxicological Hazard Indexing (THI)

Safety is our primary weight (40%) and is governed by our Toxicological Hazard Index. Unlike traditional reviews that check only for "BPA-Free" labels, we analyze the entire molecular profile of materials and ingredients.

Our assessment is grounded in the principles of dose-response relationships and cumulative toxicity. We specifically look for:

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Analyzing pathways where synthetic compounds mimic or block natural hormones (e.g., BPA/BPS, Phthalates, PFAS).
Carcinogenic Mapping: Cross-referencing ingredients against IARC (Group 1-2B) and California's Prop 65 lists.
Bioaccumulation Potential: Identifying substances that persist in human tissue or the environment (PBT substances).
Contaminant Detection Limits: Evaluating if a product's testing sensitivity meets EWG Health Guidelines, which are often 10-100x more stringent than federal MCLs (Maximum Contaminant Levels).

Efficacy: Hierarchical Evidence Validation

Efficacy (30%) is not determined by manufacturer claims. We use a "Hierarchical Evidence Model" to validate if a product performs its intended function.

Tier 1 (Gold Standard): Independent, double-blind, peer-reviewed studies published in high-impact journals (e.g., Nature, The Lancet).
Tier 2 (Certified Performance): Third-party lab certifications from accredited bodies like NSF International (e.g., NSF 53 for lead), IAPMO, or GREENGUARD Gold.
Tier 3 (Material Analysis): Verification of material properties (e.g., 304 vs 316L stainless steel porosity) and manufacturing transparency.

Value: Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCA)

Value (30%) is a measure of "Total Cost of Safety" over the product’s expected lifespan. We prioritize longevity and health-savings over low sticker prices.

Durability Multiplier: Assessing material fatigue (e.g., ceramic coating degradation vs. cast iron longevity).
Maintenance Overhead: Factoring in required filter replacements, special cleaning agents, or energy consumption.
Health Externality Savings: The long-term economic value of reducing exposure to neurotoxins or endocrine disruptors.

Regulatory Comparison: US EPA vs. EU REACH

Trust is built on transparency about where regulations fall short. R3 frequently defaults to the EU REACH "Precautionary Principle." If a substance is banned in the EU but legal in the US (like many cosmetic preservatives and water contaminants), R3 issues a "Methodology Warning" or scoring penalty.

Evidence and Citations

FAQ

Why does R3 ignore FDA/EPA "Safe" designations?

Federal limits (MCLs) are often balanced between public health and economic feasibility for utilities. R3 prioritizes health-first guidelines (MCLGs), which are set at levels where no known health effects occur, even if those levels are currently unenforceable by the government.

How do you handle "Proprietary Blends"?

Any lack of full transparency results in an automatic "Transparency Penalty." We believe that for conscious families, an unknown ingredient is a potential hazard until proven otherwise.

Answer First

Safety: Toxicological Hazard Indexing (THI)

Our assessment is grounded in the principles of dose-response relationships and cumulative toxicity. We specifically look for:

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Analyzing pathways where synthetic compounds mimic or block natural hormones (e.g., BPA/BPS, Phthalates, PFAS).

Carcinogenic Mapping: Cross-referencing ingredients against IARC (Group 1-2B) and California's Prop 65 lists.

Bioaccumulation Potential: Identifying substances that persist in human tissue or the environment (PBT substances).

Contaminant Detection Limits: Evaluating if a product's testing sensitivity meets EWG Health Guidelines, which are often 10-100x more stringent than federal MCLs (Maximum Contaminant Levels).

Efficacy: Hierarchical Evidence Validation

Efficacy (30%) is not determined by manufacturer claims. We use a "Hierarchical Evidence Model" to validate if a product performs its intended function.

Tier 1 (Gold Standard): Independent, double-blind, peer-reviewed studies published in high-impact journals (e.g., Nature, The Lancet).

Tier 2 (Certified Performance): Third-party lab certifications from accredited bodies like NSF International (e.g., NSF 53 for lead), IAPMO, or GREENGUARD Gold.

Tier 3 (Material Analysis): Verification of material properties (e.g., 304 vs 316L stainless steel porosity) and manufacturing transparency.

Value: Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCA)

Value (30%) is a measure of "Total Cost of Safety" over the product’s expected lifespan. We prioritize longevity and health-savings over low sticker prices.

Durability Multiplier: Assessing material fatigue (e.g., ceramic coating degradation vs. cast iron longevity).

Maintenance Overhead: Factoring in required filter replacements, special cleaning agents, or energy consumption.

Health Externality Savings: The long-term economic value of reducing exposure to neurotoxins or endocrine disruptors.

Regulatory Comparison: US EPA vs. EU REACH

FAQ

Why does R3 ignore FDA/EPA "Safe" designations?

How do you handle "Proprietary Blends"?

Any lack of full transparency results in an automatic "Transparency Penalty." We believe that for conscious families, an unknown ingredient is a potential hazard until proven otherwise.

Precision Scoring: The R3 Scientific Framework

Answer First

Safety: Toxicological Hazard Indexing (THI)

Efficacy: Hierarchical Evidence Validation

Value: Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCA)

Regulatory Comparison: US EPA vs. EU REACH

Evidence and Citations

FAQ

Related Pages

Precision Scoring: The R3 Scientific Framework

Answer First

Safety: Toxicological Hazard Indexing (THI)

Efficacy: Hierarchical Evidence Validation

Value: Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCA)

Regulatory Comparison: US EPA vs. EU REACH

Evidence and Citations

FAQ

Related Pages