Understanding Candle Labels and Fragrance Regulations

The CLP (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging) regulations were implemented in 2009 across the European Union (including the UK) to ensure consistent standards for the classification, labelling, and packaging of substances and mixtures. These regulations were agreed upon by the European Union and were extended to include the UK from June 1st, 2015.

One aspect of CLP is the use of standardized fire safety warnings, as outlined in EN15494, which many manufacturers choose to include on their candles. These warnings highlight the potential fire risk associated with using a candle.

It's important to note that CLP regulations specifically apply to home fragrancing products and not cosmetics, which fall under separate rules. This means that products such as reed diffusers, wax melts, scented sachets, room sprays, and candles, along with others in the same category, are subject to CLP requirements.

Many fragrance ingredients have the potential to irritate the eyes or skin, cause skin sensitization, or pose environmental hazards. If these ingredients are present in concentrations above specified cut-off values mentioned in section 16 of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), they trigger health or environmental warning statements and/or pictograms. These warnings and pictograms should be clearly stated on the product's labelling and packaging to inform consumers about potential health or environmental risks.

The CLP regulations have some exceptions for substances and mixtures that are packaged in small containers (usually less than 125ml) or containers that are difficult to label. This includes products like our sample tins and wax melts.

These exceptions allow the supplier to leave out certain hazard and precautionary statements or pictograms that are typically required under CLP regulations on the product label.

It's important to note that the information we provided is based on our current understanding of the new CLP legislation. We have simplified it as much as possible for your understanding, and we will continue to update our knowledge as we learn more about any additional requirements.

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) is an organization that represents the fragrance industry worldwide. It works to protect the interests of the industry and promotes the safe use of fragrances. IFRA was established in 1973 and has its main office in Geneva, Switzerland, with an operations center in Brussels, Belgium.

IFRA has 8 multinational companies, known as "Regular Members," and 21 national associations representing 23 countries as its members. Additionally, there are 8 "Supporting Members" from countries where IFRA doesn't have a national association. Together, these members form the collective voice of the fragrance industry and work together to ensure the responsible and safe use of fragrances.

The fragrance industry has created a set of guidelines called the IFRA Standards to ensure the safe use of fragrances. These rules are developed in collaboration with industry members and experts, following a transparent process. Independent experts oversee this process to ensure its integrity.

IFRA periodically updates these standards through "Amendments" based on the latest scientific evidence. They assess a wide range of fragrance ingredients, often referred to as "The perfumers Palette." IFRA sets the maximum allowed dosage of both natural and synthetic fragrance materials in the final product.

These amendments may lead to the removal or limitations on the use of certain commonly used fragrance ingredients. This is done to ensure the safety of consumers and to align with the latest scientific knowledge and understanding.