On 2 March 2026, Regulation (EU) 2026/405 of the European Parliament and of the Council on detergents and surfactants was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. This Regulation repeals the former Regulation (EC) No 648/2004, making a new era for the detergent products industry.

Entry into Force and Application Dates

The Regulation will enter into force on 22 March 2026. To allow the industry sufficient time to adapt to these transformative changes, a transitional period has been established: most provisions will become mandatory starting 23 September 2029.

What Does the New Regulation Include?

The new regulatory framework introduces several key changes, particularly aligned with the Union’s green and digital transition objectives.

  • Refill Sales: To reduce packaging waste, the sale of detergents through refill stations is encouraged. Specific safety and labelling rules are introduced for this sales method to ensure consumer protection.
  • Detergents Containing Micro-organisms: Unlike traditional chemical detergents, cleaning products containing intentionally added living micro-organisms are now within the scope of the Regulation. To ensure safe use, these products are subject to specific identification, safety data, and risk assessment methodologies.
  • Extended Biodegradability Criteria: In addition to existing requirements for surfactants, new biodegradability criteria and test methods will be phased in for water-soluble polymeric films (detergent capsules) and other organic substances used in high concentrations.
  • Prohibition of Animal Testing: Testing on animals to meet the requirements of this Regulation is generally prohibited. The use of non-animal testing methods validated at the Union or international level is mandatory for conformity assessments.
  • Ingredients Data Sheets: For mixtures not classified as hazardous to human health, manufacturers must still provide an ingredients data sheet to appointed bodies for emergency health response purposes.
  • Digital Product Passport (DPP): A mandatory “digital identity” is introduced for detergents. This passport will declare the product’s compliance and allow market surveillance and customs authorities to access relevant data digitally.
  • Online Sales and Customs Controls: New rules have been established to enhance market surveillance for online sales. For imported products, an automatic verification system for the Digital Product Passport will be implemented at customs via the EU Customs Single Window.
  • Digital Labelling: Economic operators are granted the option to provide certain labelling information in a digital format. However, essential safety and health-related information must remain on the physical label.

You can examine the full text of the Regulation here: Regulation (EU) 2026/405 – EUR-Lex.

What Should Companies Do?

Companies are advised to begin assessing the impact of this Regulation immediately and utilize the transitional period wisely. It is recommended that firms start reviewing their product formulations, evaluating labelling obligations, and preparing their digital compliance systems (such as the DPP infrastructure).

Chemleg is ready to assist you throughout this process. You can fill out the form to schedule a meeting with our experts.