Revision of the European Detergents Regulation: key points for the fragrance sector
The revision of the European detergents regulation marks a significant shift for the chemical and fragrance industries. The new text will replace Regulation (EC) No 648/2004.
In June 2025, the Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council reached a final political agreement. Official publication is expected in January 2026.
Objective of the new Detergents Regulation
The revision of the European detergents regulation harmonises market placement conditions across the EU. It aims to protect human health and the environment.
The text ensures the free circulation of detergents and surfactants within the European market.
Main regulatory updates
The new regulation strengthens biodegradability requirements beyond surfactants.
- Introduces an expanded list of 104 fragrance allergens.
- Creates the Digital Product Passport and consolidates digital labelling.
- Specifically regulates detergents containing microorganisms.
- Reinforces the ban on animal testing in detergency.
- Updates documentation obligations to align with REACH, CLP, and biocides legislation.
Impact on fragrance houses
The revision of the European detergents regulation does not introduce additional ingredient blacklists. No new prohibitions are added beyond REACH and CLP.
IFRA has actively participated in the regulatory negotiations. Its goal was to avoid an overly restrictive Generic Risk Approach. It also defended consistency with cosmetics legislation on allergens.
Biodegradability: what really changes
All surfactants must be “ultimately biodegradable”. Clear quantitative criteria apply under Annex I.
- Within six years, soluble films must meet specific requirements.
- Within eight years, criteria will extend to other organic ingredients ≥10%.
Perfume ingredients are usually well below the 10% threshold. Therefore, the direct impact on fragrance palettes is expected to be limited.
New allergen list and labelling
Annex V includes 104 fragrance allergens. Classic substances such as HICC, atranol, and chloroatranol are included.
Any allergen intentionally added above 0.01% must be labelled. INCI nomenclature will be used where applicable.
The revision of the European detergents regulation maintains consistency with cosmetics. Changes to Regulation 1223/2009 will automatically apply to detergents.
Digital Product Passport (DPP)
The DPP will be mandatory before products are placed on the market.
- It will be linked to a unique identifier, such as a QR code.
- Will include operator details, packaging images, and the declaration of conformity.
- It will also display the full list of intentionally added substances.
- The DPP must be interoperable with other EU digital product passports.
Detergents containing microorganisms
The new regulation prohibits known pathogenic microorganisms. It requires minimum viability throughout the product’s shelf life.
Antimicrobial claims will not be allowed without full compliance with the Biocidal Products Regulation.
Animal testing and sustainability
The revision of the European detergents regulation bans new animal testing. Only existing historical data may be used.
Current phosphorus limits remain in place. The Commission will assess future reductions and extensions to new categories.
Obligations for manufacturers, importers, and distributors
Manufacturers must ensure compliance and retain documentation for ten years. They must also manage the DPP and correct labelling.
Importers may only place compliant products on the EU market.
Distributors must cooperate with market surveillance activities.
If they change the formula, packaging, or brand, they assume manufacturer responsibilities.
Early preparation is essential
The new regulation will apply after a long transitional period. Up to 54 months will be available for full adaptation.
Early action will help preserve innovation and olfactory creativity. The revision of the European detergents regulation requires strategy and technical expertise.
👉 Do you need expert support to adapt your fragrances to the new legal framework? Contact us and secure your regulatory compliance with confidence!
Source: EU
