EPA Updates Safer Chemical Ingredients List with Addition of 27 New Chemicals

On September 30, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated the Safer Chemical Ingredients List (SCIL) to promote transparency and support safer product innovation. The update includes the addition of 27 chemicals, updates to 23 listings, and a planned removal of one chemical after 12 months. Fragrances have also been moved to a more comprehensive list to help manufacturers find approved options for Safer Choice-certified products.

Introduction

The Safer Chemical Ingredients List (SCIL) is a comprehensive compilation of chemicals evaluated by EPA’s Safer Choice program that meet stringent safety criteria. With this latest update, the SCIL now includes 957 chemicals recognized as some of the safest for their intended uses. This list helps manufacturers identify suitable chemicals for products aiming for Safer Choice certification.

Additions to the SCIL

EPA has added 27 new chemicals to the SCIL, increasing the total for 2024 to 29. These additions include colorants, preservatives, processing aids, additives, polymers, solvents, and surfactants, providing manufacturers with more options for creating high-performance products using safer chemicals.

Moving Fragrances from the SCIL

Fragrances may be used in Safer Choice-certified products if they meet the Safer Choice Criteria for Fragrances. EPA is moving fragrances previously listed on the Safer Choice Ingredients List (SCIL) to the Safer Choice Fragrances Palette, which will now serve as the comprehensive source of approved fragrances. The criteria remain unchanged, allowing any fragrance that meets these standards in Safer Choice-certified products. Additionally, for those seeking fragrance-free options, EPA will maintain the Fragrance-Free Safer Choice label on qualifying products, with approximately 300 fragrance-free products currently certified.

Updating SCIL Listings

EPA is updating the status of 23 chemicals on the Safer Chemical Ingredient List (SCIL), using color codes to indicate confidence levels in their safety. As part of this routine maintenance, 20 solvents previously classified as "full green circles" or "yellow triangles" are now reclassified as "half-green circles," indicating low concern but needing more data to bolster their safer status. Additionally, propyl acetate is now designated as a "yellow triangle," meaning it meets Safer Choice Criteria but still has some health and environmental concerns.

EPA has also reclassified methyl ethyl ketone as a specialized industrial chemical, consistent with other chemicals in its hazard profile. Furthermore, ethyl lactate has been changed to a "grey square" status and may be removed from the list in one year if health concerns are not addressed, as no Safer Choice-certified products currently contain this chemical.

EPA is dedicated to regularly updating the SCIL with safer chemical options. They encourage manufacturers to submit their safer chemicals for review and potential inclusion on the SCIL, which will be updated at least annually to reflect advances in safer chemistry.