The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safer Choice Program has announced significant updates to its Safer Chemical Ingredients List (SCIL), a valuable resource for manufacturers of cleaning products with preferred environmental, health, and safety profiles. The EPA has added 27 new chemicals to the list updated the listings of 23 existing chemicals, reflecting the latest scientific evidence, and centralized the listing of all fragrance ingredients in a Fragrance Palette.

Background.  SCIL is a list of chemical ingredients, arranged by functional-use class, that the Safer Choice Program has evaluated and determined to be safer than traditional chemical ingredients. This list is designed to help manufacturers find safer chemical alternatives to formulate cleaning products that meet the criteria of the EPA Safer Choice Program.

Key Updates:

• Expanded Chemical Database: The SCIL now includes a total of 957 chemicals, providing manufacturers with a wider range of options for creating safer and more environmentally benign cleaning products.
• Fragrances Moved to Separate Palette: To streamline the process for product manufacturers, EPA has moved fragrances from the SCIL to a dedicated Fragrance Palette. This palette offers a comprehensive list of approved fragrances that meet Safer Choice criteria.
• Updated Chemical Characterizations: The EPA has reevaluated 23 chemicals on the SCIL, adjusting their characterizations based on new scientific data. This ensures that the SCIL accurately reflects the current understanding of each chemical’s safety profile.
• Removal of Ethyl Lactate: EPA has designated ethyl lactate as a “grey square” chemical, indicating potential health concerns. If additional data does not justify its continued inclusion, ethyl lactate may be removed from the SCIL within 12 months.
• Encouraging Industry Innovation: The EPA is actively seeking submissions from manufacturers to expand the SCIL. By identifying and submitting safer chemicals, businesses can contribute to the development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

Benefits of the Safer Choice Program:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Safer Choice-certified products are designed to minimize harm to the environment.
• Improved Public Health: By using safer chemicals, manufacturers can help protect human health and well-being.
• Enhanced Customer Confidence: Institutional and household customers are increasingly seeking products that are made with safer ingredients. Safer Choice certification can help build trust and loyalty.

How to Learn More:

For more information on the EPA’s Safer Chemical Ingredients List and the Safer Choice program, please visit the EPA website: EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List website

By utilizing the resources provided by the EPA, businesses can make informed decisions about the chemicals they use in their products and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.