The EPA announced significant updates to its Safer Chemical Ingredients List (SCIL), a critical resource for manufacturers seeking safer alternatives for product formulations. The agency has added 27 new chemicals, bringing the total number of chemicals on the SCIL to 957. These additions, which include solvents, polymers, surfactants, and preservatives, are aimed at encouraging innovation in safer product development and improving transparency for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Expanding the SCIL
The Safer Chemical Ingredients List is a vital tool in the EPA’s Safer Choice programme, which certifies products that meet stringent human health and environmental safety criteria. With the latest additions, the SCIL now provides manufacturers with an even broader range of options when developing cleaning products, colourants, and other formulations that meet high safety standards.
According to the EPA, the newly added chemicals include preservatives, processing aids, colourants, and solvents, among other categories, all of which have been evaluated for their safety. These chemicals offer manufacturers a greater variety of safer ingredients to produce high-performing, environmentally friendly products that can still meet the performance expectations of consumers.
Fragrances Moved to Comprehensive Safer Choice Fragrances Palette
In a move aimed at simplifying the process for manufacturers, the EPA has shifted all fragrance chemicals from the SCIL to the Safer Choice Fragrances Palette. The Palette serves as a more comprehensive and user-friendly list of all fragrances approved for use in Safer Choice-certified products.
Previously, only a subset of fragrances was listed on the SCIL. By consolidating all approved fragrances into one comprehensive resource, the EPA has made it easier for manufacturers to identify which fragrance ingredients are acceptable for use in products that meet Safer Choice standards. Fragrances that meet the programme's criteria remain acceptable, and the Fragrance-Free Safer Choice label will still be available for products that qualify.
There are currently approximately 300 fragrance-free Safer Choice-certified products available to consumers, catering to those who prefer or require products without added fragrances.
Reevaluation of Existing Chemicals
In addition to adding new chemicals, the EPA has reassessed the safety status of 23 existing chemicals on the SCIL. Based on the latest scientific data, some chemicals have had their status adjusted to reflect a more accurate understanding of their potential risks. For example, 20 solvents that were previously characterised as “full green circles” or “yellow triangles” have now been reclassified as “half-green circles,” indicating that while they are still considered relatively safe, further data is needed to strengthen the EPA’s confidence in their low hazard status.
One notable update is the reclassification of the solvent propyl acetate (CASRN 109-60-4) from a “full green circle” to a “yellow triangle,” meaning it meets the Safer Choice Criteria but has some concerns related to human health or environmental impact. Propyl acetate, while still one of the safest solvents available, represents an area where further innovation is encouraged to develop even safer alternatives.
Another significant change is the designation of ethyl lactate (CASRN 97-64-3) as a “grey square,” indicating that it may be removed from the SCIL within 12 months. Ethyl lactate is under review due to emerging concerns about its potential health effects. If further data cannot justify its continued inclusion, the chemical will be removed after the 12-month period. Currently, no Safer Choice-certified products use ethyl lactate.
A Commitment to Safer Chemistry
The EPA’s Safer Chemical Ingredients List is continuously updated to reflect the latest scientific findings and innovations in safer chemistry. This regular maintenance ensures that manufacturers and consumers can trust that products carrying the Safer Choice label are formulated with the safest available ingredients. By encouraging manufacturers to submit their chemicals for evaluation, the EPA helps drive progress in the development of safer, high-performing products that protect human health and the environment.
