Noticeable cosmetic products in the European rapid alert system RAPEX

Jun 25, 2019 - Cosmetics

Noticeable cosmetic products in the European rapid alert system RAPEX

In the past two weeks, both microbiologically and chemically conspicuous cosmetics have been listed in the European Union's rapid alert system.

The microbiologically conspicuous products showed a significantly increased total germ count, which is well above the values of DIN EN ISO 17516 (standard for microbiological limits). In one product, the germ Pseudmonas putida was detected. This germ is mostly found in water and can also form biofilms.

The chemically conspicuous products are decorative cosmetics, with significantly increased levels of antimony detected. Antimony, along with other metals such as arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury, is listed as a prohibited substance according to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. This metal may only be present in cosmetics in health-safe and technologically unavoidable amounts.

Check the quality of your products! Whether it’s the microbiological quality according to DIN EN ISO 17516 or other contaminants such as heavy metals, phthalates, nitrosamines, etc.