updated on 27.10.2026
Use of heliotropin in perfumes - final SCCS assessment is available
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) considers heliotropin in perfumes for adults to be safe at concentrations of up to 1.8%. An official safety assessment for other cosmetic uses is still pending. The findings could affect the future regulation of the fragrance ingredient.
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updated on 23.10.2026
Acrylamide in Noodle Chips from the Air Fryer: Four Noodle Varieties Tested
How much acrylamide is formed when preparing noodle chips in the air fryer? The CVUA Stuttgart examined four types of noodles — with encouraging results. Find out what role pre-cooking can play in the formation of acrylamide.
read more – Acrylamide in Noodle Chips from the Air Fryer: Four Noodle Varieties Tested
updated on 22.10.2026
Microbiological Quality Management (MQM) for cosmetics – a key pillar of product safety
Effective microbiological quality management (MQM) is crucial for the safety of cosmetic products. From raw material control and hygiene monitoring to preservative challenge testing – learn which measures are important and how microbiological risks can be detected at an early stage.
read more – Microbiological Quality Management (MQM) for cosmetics – a key pillar of product safety
updated on 21.10.2026
Pest control products: EU changes lead to more restrictions in food establishments
New regulations further restrict the use of rodenticides in food businesses. Preventive measures and modern monitoring systems are therefore becoming increasingly important.
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updated on 20.10.2026
Use of talc in cosmetics: EU classification as carcinogenic remains undecided
The possible classification of talc as carcinogenic continues to provoke debate at EU level. While ECHA stands by its recommendation, other scientific assessments reach different conclusions. What consequences could a final classification have for the cosmetics industry?
read more – Use of talc in cosmetics: EU classification as carcinogenic remains undecided
updated on 19.10.2026
Food contact materials: Wood — a questionable candidate
Wood may be used in the food sector under certain conditions. The revised DIN 10528 takes into account new scientific findings and the traditional use of wood, for example in dairies and bakeries. Proper cleaning, care and hygienic use are crucial. Extra caution is advised for particularly sensitive foods.
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updated on 16.10.2026
Clostridium botulinum – Invisible threat in pumpkin products
Pumpkin products such as pumpkin purée or pumpkin juice can pose a serious health risk if improperly preserved: the bacterium Clostridium botulinum can produce the potentially fatal botulinum toxin under certain conditions. A recent recall of pumpkin juice underscores the importance of safe production processes and reliable microbiological testing.
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updated on 15.10.2026
Aluminium in cosmetics: New EU maximum limits also affect mineral raw materials
Regulation (EU) 2026/909 establishes new maximum concentrations for aluminium in cosmetic products. Products containing natural mineral raw materials such as kaolin or bentonite may also be affected — the BAV Institute supports manufacturers with targeted aluminium analyses.
read more – Aluminium in cosmetics: New EU maximum limits also affect mineral raw materials
updated on 14.10.2026
Cereulide in infant formula: another recall of Aptamil and Milumil
Another recall of infant formula due to possible contamination with cereulide. The BAV Institute supports food manufacturers with fast and reliable testing for the heat-stable bacterial toxin.
read more – Cereulide in infant formula: another recall of Aptamil and Milumil
updated on 13.10.2026
Microbiological safety of toys: New DIN EN 71-20 for water-containing play materials
Whether slime, finger paints or certain water-filled squishies – toys containing accessible aqueous media must meet special requirements for microbiological quality. The new DIN EN 71-20:2026-02 specifies test methods and assessment criteria for this. Published in February 2026, DIN EN 71-20:2026-02 (based on EN 71-20:2025) describes the requirements for microbiological testing of toys that contain accessible aqueous media. The aim is to detect potential microbial contamination and minimize health risks to children. Which toys are affected? The standard is particularly relevant for manufacturers of toys that contain water-based materials with which children may come into contact during play. These include, for example: - Slime and water-containing modeling compounds - Finger paints and other water-based play materials - Bubble solutions - Certain squishies and other toys with accessible water-containing fillings Whether a product falls within the scope of the standard depends on its composition, the accessibility of the aqueous medium and the intended use. Not every water-filled or soft toy is automatically covered. Which microbiological tests are envisaged? For microbiological testing, DIN EN 71-20 refers to established test methods from cosmetics and pharmaceutical analysis. These include, among others: - EN ISO 21149: Enumeration of aerobic mesophilic bacteria - EN ISO 21150: Detection of Escherichia coli - EN ISO 22717: Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa - EN ISO 22718: Detection of Staphylococcus aureus - EN ISO 18416: Detection of Candida albicans In addition, the standard takes into account testing for gram-negative, bile salt-tolerant bacteria according to methods of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.). The requirements for assessing microbiological quality are specified in Chapter 6 of EN 71-20:2025. What does the new standard mean for toy manufacturers? For manufacturers and those placing water-containing toys on the market, the standard provides an important basis for verifying the microbiological quality of their products. In particular, unsuitable production conditions, raw materials or inadequate preservation of water-based play materials can promote the growth of microorganisms. The new EU Toy Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 foresees general application of its essential requirements from August 2030. Manufacturers should therefore familiarise themselves early with the relevant microbiological requirements and appropriate test methods. BAV Institute – your partner for microbiological testing The BAV Institute has many years of experience in microbiological testing of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The test methods used also form an essential basis of the new toy standard. We are happy to advise you on suitable microbiological testing for your water-containing toy products. Contact us — we will support you quickly and reliably! Sources: DIN EN 71-20:2026-02 – DIN Media Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 – EUR-Lex
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