▪︎ Detergents Regulation

Detergents Regulation: Status quo and next steps

The mandate of the EU Council of Ministers for the Detergents Regulation was adopted in mid-June 2024. This move paves the way for the tripartite negotiations between the European Commission, the Parliament, and the Council.

The discussions to date have focused on the following topics:

Phosphorus limit as a sticking point

The EU Parliament advocated further restrictions on the phosphorus content in certain detergents, but the EU Council wants to maintain the current limits. According to the Council’s position, the EU Commission must investigate further before the limits can be tightened.

Detergents with microorganisms

Requirements are specified for all detergents containing microorganisms. Special requirements apply to those in spray form. Only manufacturers that can prove the safety of their product will be allowed to sell them. But the products would have to display the required warning, and manufacturers would have to provide instructions for safe use.

Harmonization with the Cosmetics Regulation

To harmonize the Detergents and Cosmetics Regulations, the Council updated the list of allergenic fragrances. The label must display the substances listed there.

Harmonization with the Biocidal Products Regulation

The EU Council advocates a revision clause that requires the EU Commission to assess the risks to health and the environment posed by the most harmful biocidal products.

Biodegradability

It is planned to extend the requirement of biodegradability to all organic ingredients of detergents.

As of October 2024, the newly elected parliament will take up its work and press ahead with the adoption of the revised law.

If you have any questions about detergents and cleaning agents and the new detergents regulation, please do not hesitate to contact us at sales@kft.de.

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