ECHA Puts Butylparaben and Three Additional Chemicals on the REACH Candidate List
On June 25, 2020, the ECHA added four chemicals to the REACH Candidate List. The leading candidate is the preservative butyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (butylparaben). Because the substance has strong antibacterial properties, it is used in many cosmetics, including moisturizers, sunscreens, eyeshadow, and antiwrinkle creams. Butylparaben also acts as a mask to lessen the inherent odor of the product. According to Article 57 f of REACH, butylparaben is classified as an endocrine disruptor.
The other chemicals added to the candidate list are:
- 1-vinylimidazole, found in UV coatings, paints, and adhesives; used as reactive thinner; and employed in the manufacture of water-soluble polymers
- 2-methylimidazole, used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products
- Dibutylbis(pentane-2,4-dionato-O,O’)tin, used as a catalyst in the manufacture of polyurethanes
All three chemicals are classified as reprotoxic according to Article 57 c of REACH.
Special information obligations apply to manufacturers, importers, and/or vendors of these substances of very high concern (SVHC) regarding their use as such and when they are contained in mixtures and products. For background information, please see our entry from January 2020, REACH: Four Chemicals Added to Candidate List.
The current EU Waste Directive also requires the provision of information. In the future, companies that wish to market products containing SVHC must register the substances when they appear in a concentration equal to or greater than of 0.1% by weight. This mandatory registration applies to products marketed after January 5, 2021, as stated in Article 9, Section 1, letter i of the updated EU Waste Directive.
The REACH Candidate List contains more than 209 chemicals. As a rule, the list is updated twice a year. Six new SVHC were added in January 2019.
Do you deal with products that contain SVHC? Contact us at any time at reach@kft.de.
