New SCCS Opinion on the Safety of Silver in
Cosmetics
On June 20, 2024, the SCCS issued its final opinion regarding the use of silver, classified as a CMR category 2 reproductive toxicant. The SCCS determined that the use of silver microparticles is not safe at concentrations exceeding 0.2% in rinse-off cosmetics and 0.3% in leave-on products when used in combination.
However, the SCCS specifies that the use of these particles is safe in eyeshadows, oral exposure products, and certain shampoos, provided the following concentration limits are respected:
– Cutaneous exposure (Eyeshadows): up to 0.2%
– Oral exposure (Lip balm, Adult/Child toothpaste, Mouthwash):
* Lip balm: up to 0.2%
* Adult toothpaste: up to 0.05%
* Child toothpaste: up to 0.05%
* Mouthwash: up to 0.05%
[Source: SCCS Opinion on the safety of Silver (CAS/EC No. 7440-22-4/231-131-3) used in cosmetic products 03/07/2024].
European Commission Updates List of Substances Subject to Restriction
On June 20, 2024, the SCCS issued its final opinion regarding the use of silver, classified as a CMR category 2 reproductive toxicant. On July 1st, the European Commission updated the list of substances subject to restriction. This update is the first since the roadmap was launched in April 2022. The roadmap, part of REACH and the EU’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, prioritizes restrictions for the most harmful substances to human health and the environment. The Rolling List is divided into three groups:
– Group 0: Substances already in the restriction pipeline (e.g., PFAS, PAHs, BPA)
– Group 1: Substances with restrictions in preparation, highly advanced (e.g., PVC, organophosphate flame retardants)
– Group 2: Substances under discussion but awaiting decisions (e.g., formaldehyde, lead)
The implementation will require the collaboration of Member States, the Commission, and ECHA.
[Source : Rolling List of (groups of) substances for restriction updating Annex I tothe Restrictions Roadmap under the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability SWD(2022)128 – European Commission
03.07.2024].
A new compound in the SVHC list?
On the 27 of June 2024 ECHA added Bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl) peroxyde in the Candidate List of substances of very high concerns (SVHC). On top of being flammable, toxic to aquatic life with long
lasting effects and irritant for the skin and the eyes, it is possible that this chemical is toxic for reproduction damaging unborn child. This chemical is used in the formulation of polymers for plastic andrubber products. For example, we can find it in furniture, toys, but also in dishes and food packaging. Once the chemical enters the Candidate List companies have legal obligation to update the chemical’ safety data sheet.
To ensure consumer safety, EXPERTOX Laboratory performs content and container interaction tests to make sure the product is not contaminated by its packaging. [Source : ECHA adds one hazardous
chemical to the Candidate List 27/06/2024 ; Substance Info Card 100.001.164].
Ban on smoke flavors in foodstuffs
On April 24, 2024, the member states of the European Union approved a proposal by the European Commission not to renew the authorization of eight smoke flavors for foodstuffs during a meeting of the « Novel Food and Toxicological Safety of the Food Chain » group. This decision is based on assessments carried out in 2023 by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which confirmed
or could not exclude the genotoxicity risks of these flavors, which may increase the risk of developing cancers and hereditary diseases.
The regulation stipulates a gradual withdrawal from the EU over 2 years when the flavoring is added to enhance flavor (chips, sauces, soups…) and over 5 years when it replaces traditional smoking (hams, fish…). Please note that this ban does not apply to smoked products labelled “natural flavourings”.
[Source : Les Etats membres approuvent le retrait des arômes de fumée du marché de l’UE, Commission européenne, 25 avril 2024 ; Arômes de fumée, EFSA, 16 novembre 2023 ; Compte rendu de la réunion du groupe « Novel Food et Sécurité Toxicologique de la chaîne alimentaire », CPVADAAA, Commission Européenne, 14 juin 2024] .