Salvatore d’Acunto, Head of Unit for Health Technology and Cosmetics at the EC outlined the following key areas as focuses for regulation discussions and action up ahead.
He voiced a sense that between the industry and the EC, he feels “a spirit of partnership - something we can always see even when some discussions become a bit more heated than others.”
Areas of regulatory focus for the EC:
- Hypoallergenic labelling
- Animal testing
- Preservatives - on this point, d’Acunto asserted that in the past three years, dialogue between industry and the scientific community has really progressed. Better procedures are allowing for clear interaction between the two.
- CMR substances. How we handle these is a situation that needs improvement, d’Acunto said. “We are convinced we will move forward in our discussions with all member states. Not everyone agrees that the ban on CMR substances is not problematic,” he acknowledged.
- Endocrine disruptors - the Commission is reflecting about the preparation of this review, said d’Acunto. We need a consistent approach on this, he noted - not isolating one sector or industry from the others.
- Microplastics - “I could feel the tension on this topic last year, I have a feeling we have moved from an emotional conversation to a more science-focussed debate,” said d’Acunto. “ECHA will continue to work on this restriction and prepare a dossier. A more scientific approach in this issue is welcome. We have a more serene debate on this today.”
- Fragrance allergens: labelling. The EC is about to conclude the preparatory stage, and will start the internal discussion soon, and the public consultation should take place this year. We are looking at a move from 26 allergens labelled today, to almost 100 of them.
- Nanomaterials: the EC is working on a set a different actions: the 2nd edition of its catalogue, but also a report and a review. These three actions can be brought together and it should happen this year.
- Lisbonisation
Antti Peltomaki, European Commission, Deputy Director-General of the Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs Directorate-General, also spoke at the CEAC conference.
He asserted that the EC looks for a spirit of cooperation with the industry on all of these fronts.
“On my side, I would very much emphasise the constant and constructive dialogue between the commission and the cosmetics and personal care industry,” he said.
“We won’t always be doing what you’re asking, but we really want to be aware of your concerns and input.”