On February 11, 2026, the European Union officially published new regulations regarding detergents and surfactants (EU) 2026/405, aimed at fully replacing the previous regulations (EC) No 648/2004, which have been in effect for nearly twenty years. The new regulations establish minimum requirements for the biodegradability of surfactants, impose restrictions on the content of phosphates and other phosphate compounds in household laundry detergents and household automatic dishwasher detergents, and introduce the Digital Product Passport (DPP) along with new labeling rules, including provisions related to allergenic fragrances. Companies exporting detergents or surfactants to the EU will need to comply with these regulations.
Biodegradability
The new regulations impose strict requirements on the biodegradability of surfactants, mandating that biodegradability testing be conducted in accredited laboratories. Depending on the testing methods used, surfactants must achieve a biodegradation rate of 60% or more within 28 days.
The regulations also empower the European Commission to expand the biodegradability requirements in the future (post-transition period) to include other organic chemicals in detergent products (such as film-formers, capsule shells, etc.).
Restrictions on Phosphates and Other Phosphate Compounds
For household laundry detergents, the total phosphorus content for a standard washing machine load under hard water conditions should be less than 0.5 grams per use during the main washing cycle:
(i) For heavy-duty detergents (powder/liquid for tough stains), this refers to the recommended dosage for fabrics with "normal stains."
(ii) For gentle fabric detergents, this refers to the recommended dosage for fabrics with "light stains."
For household automatic dishwasher detergents, the total phosphorus content should be less than 0.3 grams per use.
Microbial Management Requirements
For the first time, products containing live microorganisms (such as probiotic detergents) are subject to regulation. The added microorganisms must meet specific safety requirements (non-pathogenic), and companies must demonstrate that the microorganisms are safe and do not develop antibiotic resistance.
Digital Product Passport (DPP) and Authorized Representatives
All detergents and surfactants entering the EU market must possess a Digital Product Passport. Non-EU manufacturers must designate an authorized representative within the EU, responsible for maintaining the Digital Product Passport and serving as a regulatory contact point.
New Labeling Rules
Companies may choose either physical labels or digital labels. The labels must include information such as the product name, trade name, batch number, Unique Formula Identifier (UFI), usage instructions, and the content of detergents or surfactants.
The new regulations allow some non-essential information (such as the complete ingredient list) to be moved to online digital labels. However, to protect allergic individuals and those lacking digital access, critical safety information (such as dosage instructions, allergens, and emergency handling) must still be retained on physical labels.
Ban on Animal Testing
The new regulations explicitly prohibit animal testing and encourage the use of alternative testing methods (NAMs).
Other Provisions
Claims regarding antibacterial or antimicrobial effects are prohibited unless the detergent complies with the EU Biocidal Products Regulation. Additionally, detergents and surfactants exported to the EU must also meet the relevant requirements of the EU REACH Regulation and the CLP Regulation.
CIRS Reminder
Companies exporting detergents or surfactants to the EU should closely monitor the implementation of the new regulations and prepare technical documentation in advance (such as compliance declarations, biodegradability reports for surfactants, new labels, and the Digital Product Passport).
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