East African Countries Notify WTO of Draft Standard for Deodorants and Antiperspirants

On September 26, 2024, five countries from the East African Community (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda) jointly notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a Draft East African Standard for the use of deodorants and antiperspirants (DEAS 960:2024). This Draft Standard aims to ensure consumer safety and product utility by establishing clear requirements. The notification is open for comments for 60 days from the date of notification. 

East African Standard  

The East African Standard is necessary to harmonize product quality within the East African Community. These standards are subject to regular review to keep pace with technological advances. Users are expected to maintain access to the latest versions of the standards they implement. 

Draft Standard for Deodorants and Antiperspirants 

In an effort to enhance consumer safety and product utility, the East African Draft Standard (DEAS 960:2024) has been introduced to provide detailed specifications for the requirements, packaging, labeling, and sampling of deodorants and antiperspirants. 

Key Points of the Draft Standard 

- Scope: This draft standard specifies the requirements, sampling, and test methods for deodorants and antiperspirants. 

- Normative References: Refers to other standards required by ISO and EAS, including those for requirements, labeling, sampling, testing, and packaging. 

- Terms and Definitions: Defined in accordance with draft EAS 846, covering terms like deodorants, antiperspirants and roll balls. 

- Requirements: 

• Ingredient Compliance: All ingredients, including dyes and pigments, must meet EAS 377 standards. 

• General Requirements: Products must be safe for consumers when used as directed and must comply with ISO 22716 for production and handling. 

• Specific Testing Requirements: Stability of smell, pH levels, and non-volatile matter must meet specified criteria. Aerosol products have additional requirements regarding delivery rates and leakage tests. 

• Heavy Metal Contaminants: Limits for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury, are established to ensure consumer safety in accordance with EAS 847-16. 

• Microbiological Standards: Products must meet stringent microbiological limits, including total viable counts and specific pathogen testing according to ISO standards. 

- Packaging: Deodorants and antiperspirants should be packaged as roll-ons, aerosols, squeezable tubes, stick products, or any suitable container that protects the contents from contamination and reactions. If a roll ball is used, it must be made of plastic, allow controlled release, and leave a thin layer of product on the skin during application. 

- Labeling: Labels must conform to EAS 346. Product identification must clearly state “Deodorant” or “Antiperspirant.” Warnings for products containing aluminum zirconium compounds must state: “Do not apply to irritated or damaged skin.” Appropriate safety symbols must follow ISO 7010 standards. 

- Sampling: Sampling shall conform to ISO 24153. 

- Annexes: The Annexes include methods for: 

• Determination of stability of smell 

• Determination of non-volatile matter 

• Determination of delivery rate of dispensers 

• Determination of propellant composition 

• Net weight delivery 

• Spray tests 

Conclusion 

The introduction of DEAS 960:2024 is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and quality of deodorants and antiperspirants in East Africa. By establishing comprehensive guidelines for formulation, packaging, labeling and testing, this standard aims to protect consumers while promoting uniformity across the region. Manufacturers and consumers alike will benefit from clearer expectations and enhanced product integrity, promoting confidence and safety in personal care products.