News
Oct 28, 2025 - Cosmetics
Pharma Germany publishes position paper on ethanol
In a current position paper dated 17.10.2025, the Pharma Germany Association explains the indispensability of ethanol and the possible consequences of improper classification.
A ban on ethanol would have far-reaching consequences not only in the pharmaceutical sector but also in the cosmetics and medical device sectors. Ethanol has been used safely in these products for decades. The position paper includes the following demands, among others:
- Reliable evidence of the CMR properties of ethanol in dermal exposure must first be provided
- The assessment must be risk-based and may not be based solely on data on oral alcohol consumption
- Possible consequences, for example for patients, due to the loss of therapeutic options must be considered
The background is two ongoing procedures concerning ethanol: one procedure under the EU Biocidal Products Regulation and a second concerning classification according to CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging).
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