EU Revises Regulation (EU) 2026/405/EC on Detergents and Surfactants
BAAR, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / April 27, 2026 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 053.26, highlighting the EU’s adoption of Regulation (EU) 2026/405 on detergents and surfactants.
Published on March 2, 2026, Regulation (EU) 2026/405 modernizes and replaces the long-standing framework under Regulation (EC) 648/2004. This represents the most significant revision of EU detergent legislation in two decades.
Several new requirements have been introduced, including:
- Expanded scope to include detergents containing microbial ingredients, refill sales, online sales and digital tools
- Stricter biodegradability limits
- Wider biodegradability testing requirements, extending obligations to films, polymers and organic substances
- Updated labeling rules
- Option to use digital label
- Definition of acceptable IT solutions and alternative access methods under a digital labeling framework
- Alignment of fragrance allergen disclosure with Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009
- Mandatory use of validated non-animal testing methods
- Introduction of the Digital Product Passport (DPP)
- New conformity assessment procedures
- Enhanced market surveillance
Regulation (EU) 2026/405 came into force on March 22, 2026, and is applicable from September 23, 2029, with transitional arrangements in place. Certain biodegradability testing requirements will apply at a later stage. The update will affect manufacturers, importers, distributors and online sellers of detergents and surfactants sold in the EU.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 053.26 includes further information on the implementation timeline and the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2026/405.
Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 053.26 for more details.
SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EU Updates Regulation (EU) 2026/405/EC on Detergents and Surfactants SafeGuardS.
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For further information, contact Media Inquiries or:
Queenie Tse
Technical Service Manager
Tel: +852 2765 3672
Website: www.sgs.com/cosmetics
LinkedIn: Cosmetics & Personal Care
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