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FDA GRAS Rule 2026: Key Changes, compliance & Industry Impact

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  FDA’s 2026 GRAS Proposal: A New Era of Food Ingredient Transparency By 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is expected to publish a proposed regulation that would require all Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) determinations to be formally notified to the agency. If implemented, this rule would mark a major shift in food safety oversight—effectively ending the long-standing practice of self-affirmed GRAS determinations and ushering in a new era defined by transparency, accountability, and regulatory visibility. Understanding GRAS and Its Regulatory Role The GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) framework has been a foundational element of U.S. food ingredient regulation under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. It allows substances to be used in food if they are generally recognized as safe by qualified experts, based on publicly available scientific evidence. Historically, companies have had two pathways: Submit a GRAS notification to the FDA ...
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PFAS in Cosmetics: Why They Are Being Banned Globally

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  The Global Shift Away from PFAS in Cosmetics The beauty industry is undergoing a profound global transformation. Across the United States, multiple states are moving to ban PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)—commonly known as “forever chemicals”—from cosmetic products. At the same time, Japan has taken a significant regulatory step by banning 138 PFAS under its Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL), effective January 10, 2025. This regulation prohibits the manufacture, import, and use of these substances in cosmetics unless specific exemptions apply. As consumer demand shifts toward cleaner and safer beauty products, regulators are tightening controls on ingredients associated with long-term environmental and health risks. But what exactly is driving PFAS out of makeup bags worldwide? What Makes PFAS Problematic? PFAS represent a vast group of more than 10,000 synthetic chemicals valued for their resistance to water, oil, and heat. These properties have made them...
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What Is PFAS? Meaning, Uses in Cosmetics & Risks

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  PFAS in Cosmetics: Uses, Risks, and Regulatory Implications Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a vast class of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals known for their exceptional resistance to water, oils, and heat. Their durability stems from strong carbon–fluorine bonds, which also make them highly persistent in the environment—earning them the label “forever chemicals.” Why PFAS Are Used in Cosmetics In the cosmetics industry, PFAS are valued for enhancing product performance. They help formulations become: Longer-lasting Smoother and more spreadable Resistant to smudging, oil, and moisture According to the FDA’s MoCRA-mandated report, PFAS are most commonly found in: Eye shadows Eyeliners Mascaras Foundations Face powders Leave-on facial products In these applications, PFAS improve texture, conditioning, and wear time. Common PFAS used in cosmetics include PTFE and other fluorinated compounds that c...
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What Is an SDS Update Trigger? Definition & Examples

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  SDS Update Triggers: Definition, Importance, and Key Drivers A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is not a static document—it must evolve as new information becomes available. This is where SDS update triggers play a critical role. Definition: What Is an SDS Update Trigger? An SDS update trigger is any event, change, or new information that requires a Safety Data Sheet to be reviewed and revised to ensure it remains accurate, compliant, and reliable. This ensures the SDS reflects the most current: Hazard information Chemical composition Regulatory requirements Safety and handling instructions These triggers are guided by global regulations and industry best practices. Why Are SDS Update Triggers Important? SDS update triggers help ensure that: Workers receive accurate and up-to-date hazard information Organizations remain compliant with regulatory requirements Supply chain partners rely on correct safety data Emer...
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PFAS in Cosmetics: Regulations, Bans & Industry Impact

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  PFAS Regulations Are Transforming the Cosmetics Industry The cosmetics industry is undergoing a significant transformation as new regulations targeting PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) emerge across the U.S. and globally. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have long been used for their smoothing, long-wear, and water-resistant properties. However, increasing scientific evidence linking PFAS to serious health and environmental concerns—including cancer, hormonal disruption, and immune system effects—has placed these substances under intense regulatory scrutiny. Since PFAS do not naturally degrade, policymakers are introducing sweeping bans, restrictions, and reporting requirements. Regulations Are Reshaping Product Formulation Starting in 2026, several U.S. states—including Connecticut, Maine, and Vermont—are enforcing PFAS-related regulations in cosmetics. These include: Product bans Mandatory labeling requirements Disclosure ...
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SDS Compliance Risks: Impact of Outdated Safety Data Sheets

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  Why Up-to-Date Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) Matter SafetyData Sheets (SDSs) are critical documents that communicate chemical hazards, safe handling practices, and emergency response measures. However, many organisations mistakenly treat SDSs as static documents. In reality, SDSs must be continuously updated to reflect: Evolving global regulations Changes in chemical formulations Newly identified hazard data Regulatory frameworks such as OSHA (US), REACH & CLP (EU), WHMIS (Canada), and GHS require SDSs to remain accurate and current. Under REACH, SDSs must be updated without delay when new information arises Under OSHA, updates must occur within 90 days of identifying new hazards Failure to maintain updated SDSs introduces serious, often hidden risks across global supply chains. Key Risks of Outdated SDSs 1. Worker Safety Risks Outdated SDSs may not reflect current hazard classifications or safety measures, lead...
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Cosmetic Ingredient Regulations 2026: How Brands Can Prepare

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  The year 2026 marks one of the most significant regulatory turning points for the cosmetics industry. Ingredient bans, stricter allergen disclosure rules, new chemical classifications, and heightened documentation requirements across the EU, GCC, Canada, and the U.S. are compelling brands to rethink formulation strategy and global compliance systems. Global ingredient restrictions now span banned substances, concentration limits, allergen disclosures, heavy metal checks, and safety documentation updates. In key markets such as the EU and GCC, regulators are expected to intensify inspections of banned and restricted substances, allergen labeling, preservative limits, and UV filter safety — all of which directly influence formulation decisions and product approvals. 1. Track New Regional Regulations Closely The EU is implementing major updates through its 2026 regulatory cycle under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, including the incorporation of newly clas...
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