The initiative includes regulatory, toxicological and contaminant review testing, along with label claim verification and compliance to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
Executives at the NSF point out that, although standards are very high, to match consumer expectations in this highly competitive sector, products are still not highly regulated, which makes validating quality and safety all the more important.
Filling the gap in regulation requirements
The global NSF International team are aiming to fill this gap in the market and provide consumers with a recognizable assurance that all safety and quality requirements are fulfilled.
“NSF International’s cosmetic product verification service provides manufacturers, brand owners and retailers with a way to demonstrate to consumers that their cosmetic products have been evaluated for safety, tested for harmful contaminants and potential adulterants, and had the label ingredient claims confirmed,” said Casey Coy, Manager of Cosmetics and Personal Care Services, NSF International.
“The on-package NSF Product Verified mark helps guide consumers to these tested cosmetic products.”
Official listing
The vigorous process required to use the verification mark includes also extends beyond product safety and quality testing to include production facility audits.
That verification process also goes one extra step, as all product that are granted compliance will ultimately appear on the NSF product listing guide.
The service is available to both retailers and cosmetic and personal care manufacturers, and NSF is aiming to make its verification mark a widely recognized addition to product labels that stands consumer assurance.