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May 28, 2021 - Cosmetics

Residues of pesticides in cosmetic products and raw materials

When using plant-based ingredients such as herbs, oils, fats, etc., as raw materials, residues of plant protection products (pesticides) can enter cosmetics. Due to the fact that more plant-based ingredients for natural cosmetics are entering the market, this issue is very current.

It is the responsibility of the manufacturer or retailer to minimize residues of plant protection products in cosmetics as part of quality assurance. This is achieved by appropriate selection and control of suppliers as well as by regular testing of raw materials and finished products.

The assessment of possible residues is subject to the EU Cosmetics Regulation VO (EC) 1223/2009. It must be checked whether the residues are harmless to health and technically unavoidable (safety report). Last but not least, consumer expectations regarding possible residues in natural cosmetic products are certainly higher than for conventional products. This is also in light of the Claims Regulation VO (EU) 655/2013.

Individual pesticide active substances are also listed in Annex 2 of VO (EC) 1223/2009 as prohibited substances.

The BAV Institute, as part of the international Tentamus Laboratory Group, conducts this testing for plant protection product residues using the latest LC and GC methods down to the trace range for you. More than 600 active substances are included in this testing spectrum.

Do you have questions about the analysis and evaluation of pesticide residues or other residues such as heavy metals, PAHs, etc.?