Melamine: ECHA Recommends Inclusion in REACH Authorization List

The ECHA has proposed that the EU Commission include melamine in the REACH authorization list (Annex XIV). If the Commission adopts the proposal, companies will have to submit an authorization application if they wish to continue using the substance.

Melamine as a hazardous substance

The substance was added to the SVHC candidate list (REACH) on January 17, 2023. According to the ECHA, melamine poses a significant risk to humans and the environment as defined in Article 57 (f) of REACH. Since November 2023, melamine has also been harmonized as a suspected carcinogen. It also exhibits specific target-organ toxicity upon repeated exposure.

Lawsuit dismissed

In July of this year, the European Court of Justice dismissed a lawsuit filed by melamine manufacturers and downstream users. The dismissal confirmed the ECHA’s classification of melamine as a substance of very high concern (SVHC). The ruling sent a clear signal to companies to replace mass-produced melamine in the long term.

Widespread Concern

The impending restriction affects numerous industries, including the plastic, wood-based material, and paper industries. It also affects companies in the building material, electrical, and automotive industries.

Next Steps

The EU Commission is now working with member states and experts to determine if melamine will be included in Annex XIV. Doing so would trigger a series of automatic processes. The sunset date set by the EU will be decisive for companies. From this date forward, melamine may not be used without authorization for a specific use. However, the application process for this authorization is complex. The catalog of measures includes extensive documentation requirements, supply chain audits, and risk-control measures.

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