Buyer questions · Purchase decisions
When using biodegradable packaging and bio-based ingredients for cleansing products, how can a brand verify and meet environmental compliance claims in EU and US markets?
Environmental claims require distinguishing between regulations and voluntary standards. The EU Cosmetics Regulation does not directly govern 'biodegradable' claims, but it prohibits misleading environmental descriptions. US FTC 'Green Guides' regulate 'bio-based' and 'degradable' terminology. Claims of 'biodegradability' require specific composting or marine environment test data, citing standards like ISO 14855 or ASTM D6400. Brands must complete material certification and toxicological assessments before launch, per the latest official texts.
1EU Compliance & Misleading Claims
EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 prohibits misleading environmental claims to consumers. There is no mandatory legal standard specifically for 'biodegradable', but claims must be factually accurate and avoid vague terms like 'absolutely eco-friendly'. The Responsible Person must retain proof of ingredient origin to ensure INCI list accuracy.
2US FTC Environmental Claims
Per the US FTC 'Green Guides', 'biodegradable' requires proof of decomposition within a finite time under reasonable disposal conditions. If claiming 'compostable', provide test reports meeting ASTM D6400 or EN 13432. Packaging must specify degradation conditions (e.g., industrial composting) to prevent consumer misunderstanding.
3Bio-based Ingredient Verification
Claims of 'bio-based' must be based on percentage of bio-based content determined by ASTM D6866 or EN 16652. Bio-based ingredients must still comply with cosmetic safety standards (e.g., heavy metals, micro limits). BIOSPHERE can provide SGS reports to ensure dual compliance of ingredient safety and environmental claims.
Follow-up questions
- Q:What to watch for when listing 'biodegradable packaging' on Amazon US?
- A:Upload third-party certification (e.g., OK Compost) test reports to avoid being deemed misleading environmental marketing.
- Q:Are there extra compliance requirements for bio-based preservatives?
- A:No specific 'bio-based' regulations, but they must meet current prohibited/restricted lists and undergo preservative challenge tests (ISO 11930 / USP <51>).
Figures sourced from:各国法规 · 欧盟CosIng 化妆品成分数据库配方库质检体系
Updated 2026-09-18
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