Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004, known as the Detergents Regulation, establishes a harmonized legal framework within the European Union for the marketing and use of detergents and the surfactants they contain. This regulation is fundamental to ensuring that detergents are safe for human use and environmentally sustainable, protecting consumer health and ecosystem integrity. The objective of protecting the environment and human health is achieved through the regulation of the biodegradability of surfactants, product labeling, and restrictions on the use of hazardous substances.
One of the key aspects is improving the transparency of information available on detergent components (ingredients), enabling consumers to make more informed choices about the products they use.
The stakeholders involved under the Regulation are primarily Formulators (downstream users) and Importers of detergents, i.e., companies that formulate or import detergents in the EU market. Distributors and Retailers are also included. Consumers are the end-users of detergent products.
Flashpoint offers a range of services to support companies in applying the Detergents Regulation and other regulations applicable to these products, such as the REACH Regulation and the CLP Regulation. We always begin with legislative analysis, which, through audit services and telephone and document consulting, defines the client’s obligations and deadlines.
We continue with conformity assessments to evaluate whether the surfactants and other key ingredients used in detergents meet stringent biodegradability and safety requirements. We proceed with the review and drafting of detergent labels, ensuring that all mandatory information is present and clear regarding ingredients, usage precautions, surfactant quantities, and any hazard symbols related to detergents classified as hazardous under CLP. For such detergents, we also draft Safety Data Sheets (SDS) in accordance with REACH Annex II.
We assist companies in risk management and effective communication strategies to maintain transparency with consumers.