New Methylisothiazolinone Labeling Requirement in the European Union

Consumer products containing methylisothiazolinone (MIT) will need to be labeled to indicate that the product contains an allergen  when the substance is present at greater than 0.0015%. This is based on a classification approved by the European Commission’s REACH committee on February 20, 2018.  Product labeling will be required to state, “Contains methylisothiazolinone.  May cause an allergic skin reaction.” These requirements are expected to become binding at the end of 2019.  The proposal must first be reviewed by the European Parliament.

Under existing classification, labeling, and packaging regulations, products containing MIT must be labeled as skin sensitizers when the substance is present at 1.0% or more.  The EU currently bans MIT in “leave on” cosmetic products, limits MIT in “rinse-off” products, and restricts the presence of the substance in toys.