Fragrance allergens are a growing concern for both consumers and regulators. Widely used in cosmetics, personal care items, detergents, and home care products, these substances—while pleasant in scent—can trigger serious health reactions in sensitive individuals.
In response, global regulations are evolving to require more stringent disclosure and control. SGS Health & Nutrition Laboratory in Dubai is supporting manufacturers with advanced fragrance allergen testing to ensure compliance, reduce health risks, and uphold consumer trust.
Why Fragrance Allergen Testing Matters
Fragrance allergens can cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild irritation to allergic contact dermatitis or respiratory distress. With increased consumer awareness, product safety is under greater scrutiny. Testing for these substances is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting public health and brand integrity.
Regulatory Landscape: EU Regulation (EU) 2023/1545
In July 2023, the European Commission issued Regulation (EU) 2023/1545, amending the existing cosmetics regulation to include 56 additional fragrance allergens, bringing the total number of listed allergens to 82.
Key compliance thresholds:
- ≥ 0.001% in leave-on products
- ≥ 0.01% in rinse-off products
Compliance deadlines:
- New products: July 31, 2026
- Existing products: July 31, 2028
This regulation affects all cosmetic products entering or currently on the EU market, making accurate allergen detection a regulatory necessity.
SGS in UAE's Allergen Testing Capabilities for Fragrances
SGS Health & Nutrition Laboratory in Dubai offers robust testing solutions tailored for fragrance allergens, using validated, high-sensitivity methods to identify and quantify these substances, even at low concentrations. This enables manufacturers to comply with EU and other global regulations.
Regional Relevance: Supporting UAE and Middle East Manufacturers
For companies in the UAE and broader Middle East, fragrance allergen testing is key to unlocking export potential and building consumer confidence. SGS in the UAE provides local access to global expertise, enabling faster turnaround times and region-specific support for businesses looking to meet international standards.
Advantages of Fragrance Allergen Testing in the UAE
- Regulatory Compliance with EU Regulation (EU) 2023/1545
- Accurate Detection of low-concentration allergens using validated methods
- Enhanced Product Safety to protect sensitive consumers
- Improved Label Accuracy and consumer transparency
- Faster Market Access through timely and reliable results
- Local Expertise with global reach and regulatory insight
SGS is committed to helping manufacturers navigate complex regulatory environments while prioritizing consumer safety. With our science-led, quality-driven approach, we provide confidence at every stage of the product journey.
SGS – Science Inspired. Quality Driven.
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
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