Intertek launches testing strategy for the determination of 57 allergens in cosmetics which is optimised for specificity, efficiency, and accuracy
Driving understanding of cosmetic raw materials, helping clients to fulfil regulatory obligations and ensure safer products.
March 23, 2021
Chalon sur Saône, FR: Intertek, a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide, is pleased to announce the launch of an advanced analytical testing service to determine allergens in cosmetics which is optimized for greater specificity, efficiency, and accuracy.
In Europe, Regulation (EC) N°1223/2009, enforces the obligation to inform consumers of the presence of 24 chemically-defined fragrance substances identified as potential allergens in cosmetic products. Following the publication of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety’s document (SCCS/1459/11), it was proposed by industry stakeholders to extend that to 57 fragrance substances. Accurate determination of the levels of these allergens in cosmetics is essential to allow suitable labelling for consumers, however, this testing is highly challenging for these complex sample types.
Intertek’s experts, who have over 15 years’ experience in developing analytical chromatography methods to meet the regulatory demands of the cosmetic industry, have developed a superior method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) to identify and quantify the volatile compounds which are suspected to be allergens in fragrances and raw materials used in cosmetic products.
Using an approach called Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM), Intertek’s method is optimized for the determination of 57 allergen substances present in cosmetic samples. In comparison to existing GC-MS methods, Intertek’s is more efficient to run (it uses only one chromatography column with a single injection) and also avoids the risk of false positives which might occur when the presence of other substances in the samples give rise to “matrix effects” during testing. Intertek’s method is fit-for-purpose over a wide range of concentration levels and accuracy can be demonstrated to ensure confidence in the results.
Sylvie Lebrat, Director, LaCoMeD Laboratory, Intertek, said “Our scientists have developed a unique approach to allergen determination in cosmetics which is optimised for specificity, efficiency and accuracy. The data we generate brings our clients confidence in the results, drives greater insight into understanding their raw materials and helps them to fulfil their regulatory obligations to ensure safer products.”
Intertek provides development and manufacturing support services for the global cosmetics industry, helping clients to overcome quality, safety, purity and innovation challenges through comprehensive analysis, clinical research, regulatory consultancy, auditing, and supply chain management solutions.
For Media Information
Please contact:
Lorna Kettle
Marketing Manager, Intertek Pharmaceutical Services
T: +44 161 721 1476
E: lorna.kettle@intertek.com
About Intertek
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Intertek is a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide. Our network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices in more than 100 countries, delivers innovative and bespoke Assurance, Testing, Inspection and Certification solutions for our customers' operations and supply chains. Intertek Total Quality Assurance expertise, delivered consistently with precision, pace and passion, enabling our customers to power ahead safely.
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