European fragrance industry urges ambitious, science-based…

“Ensuring the safety of cosmetic and fragrance products is fundamental to our industry’s mission,” said Alexander Mohr, PhD, President of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). “A refined, rationalised, science-based regulatory framework does not weaken consumer protection; it enhances it.”

At present, the interaction between the Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation and the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR) can unintentionally trigger automatic bans on cosmetic ingredients based solely on hazard classifications, rather than actual risk assessments. This could lead to safe ingredients being unjustly removed from the market, reducing consumer choice and innovation without providing additional safety benefits.

“An ambitious Omnibus Regulation would lead to safer products for consumers, by making rules clearer and more consistent for companies of all sizes”, said Mr Mohr. “This is low hanging regulatory fruit for all parties: a more coherent framework would prevent unintended consequences, such as banning ingredients in cosmetics that are considered safe, and in many cases, even present in foods”.

The industries therefore call on EU decision-makers to adopt proportionate and workable revisions in the Omnibus proposal. Specifically, they advocate for adjustments in the Cosmetic Products Regulation, including a risk-based exemption pathway assessed by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), practical timelines for product reformulation, and clear recognition and protection of safe fragrance ingredients in cosmetic products.

“We seek balanced solutions that support innovation and competitiveness without compromising safety standards,” added Mr Mohr. “Our sector’s global leadership in safety, quality, and sustainability must be safeguarded by smart regulation”.

The fragrance, cosmetics, and essential oils sectors remain committed to close collaboration with EU institutions, ensuring Europe continues to set global benchmarks in safety, manufacturing, regulatory effectiveness and innovation.

To see the joint press statement by seven fragrance and cosmetics associations, please click: here

Notes for editors

Contact:

Charles de Lusignan
Global Communications Director
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA)

M: + 32 484 78 11 76 | cdelusignan@ifrafragrance.org | www.ifrafragrance.org
IFRA Headquarters: Rue de la Croix d’Or 3, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland
IFRA Operations: Avenue des Arts 6, 1210 Brussels, Belgium

About the International Fragrance Association (IFRA)

The International Fragrance Association, founded in 1973, represents the interests of the fragrance industry worldwide. IFRA comprises seven multinational Regular Members, 22 national associations in 24 countries spread over four global regions representing hundreds of small and medium-sized fragrance ingredient manufacturers, as well as supporting members. Its mission is to promote the safe and sustainable use of fragrance.

Fragrances are a key platform technology used by consumer goods companies – for fine fragrances, personal care and cosmetics products, household care and more.

IFRA’s flagship safe use program, the IFRA Standards, applies safety management measures based on scientific assessment and the evaluations of an independent Expert Panel. The program is at the heart of the IFRA Code of Practice, which applies to all IFRA members globally, including members of IFRA’s national associations. The Code also requires members to abide by local, national and international regulation, and to apply good manufacturing practices.

Published 03/07/2025 • Updated on 03/07/2025

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