As the European Union continues its push for regulatory simplification, a concerning proposal has emerged from the European Commission—one that could permit known carcinogens in everyday cosmetics like toothpaste and mouthwash. Framed as part of a “simplification omnibus” for the chemical industry, this initiative threatens to undermine decades of progress in public health and consumer safety.
At a recent stakeholder workshop, the Commission’s Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and SMEs (DG GROW) floated the idea of loosening restrictions on chemicals classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMRs). One proposal would limit bans on these substances only when they pose a risk through skin contact, ignoring the dangers of ingestion or inhalation. In other words, a chemical known to cause cancer could still be allowed in products that we consume, provided it doesn’t harm the skin.
This is not simplification. It’s surrender.
Health organizations, including the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL), have rightly condemned the proposal as “unacceptable” and incompatible with the EU’s own Beating Cancer Plan.
How can Europe claim to lead the fight against cancer while simultaneously opening the door to carcinogens in personal care products?
Supporters of the proposal, such as France’s cosmetics industry association FEBEA, argue that these changes are necessary for competitiveness and sustainable innovation. Estonia’s chemical sector has even called for exemptions from automatic bans on CMRs, citing concerns over product availability and cultural identity.
However, these arguments overlook the key point: consumer safety is not a barrier to innovation—it is a prerequisite for trust and long-term success.
The Commission’s plan, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen on May 12, is expected to be finalized by summer.
There is still time to change course. Policymakers must listen to public health experts, not just industry lobbyists. Simplification should never come at the cost of safety.
Europe faces a choice: uphold its commitment to a toxic-free future or compromise it for the sake of convenience.
For more information:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/877/oj/eng
HEAL, press release on the workshop (19 May 2025)
FEBEA, reaction to the workshop (17 May 2025)
Chemical Watch, article on the Estonian chemical industry requests (19 May 2025)
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