Bacteria in cosmetics endanger consumer health
Sep 24, 2019 - Cosmetics
Bacteria in cosmetics endanger consumer health
Cosmetics are repeatedly reported in the EU's Rapid Alert System (RAPEX) due to increased levels of microorganisms – usually bacteria. The result is usually the withdrawal of the product from the market or a public recall.
From a microbiological perspective, cosmetics must be safe and harmless. This includes compliance with the maximum levels of bacteria, yeasts, and molds stated in the DIN EN ISO 17516 standard, as well as the absence of the four so-called specified microorganisms in 1g of product:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Escherichia coli
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Candida albicans
However, other germs such as Burkholderia cepacia and Pluralibacter gergoviae (formerly Enterobacter gergoviae) can also pose a health hazard.
Last but not least, evidence of microbiological safety, including testing of microbiological stability using the preservative efficacy test (PET), is a central component of a product's safety report. This is required by the European Cosmetics Regulation VO (EU) 1223/2009.
All EU recalls can be found in the RAPEX rapid alert system at ec.europa.eu
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