On 18 October 2023, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published Hungary’s intention of CLH classification of Sodium Chlorite, an oxidising and oral care agent, as a category 2 mutagen. A threat to its use in cosmetics if the process goes ahead.
Sodium chlorite (CAS No.758-19-2; CE No.231-836-6; INCI: Sodium Chlorite) is an ingredient listed in the Cosing, with the functions: Oral care, Oxidising.
It is not currently regulated by Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, and is not listed in Annex VI to CLP Regulation 1272/2008 either.
Hungary proposes to classify the substance as follows:
• Ox. Sol. 1, H271 - May cause fire or explosion; strong oxidiser.
• Met. Corr. 1, H290 - May be corrosive to metals.
• Acute Tox. 3, H301 - Toxic if swallowed.
• Acute Tox. 2, H310 - Fatal in contact with skin.
• Skin Corr. 1, H314 - Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
• Eye Dam. 1, H318 - Causes serious eye damage.
• Muta. 2, H341 - Suspected of causing genetic defects.
• STOT RE 2, H373 - May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
• Hazardous to the aquatic environment.
If the process comes to an end and this classification becomes effective, Sodium Chlorite would therefore be listed as a CMR, the use of which, unless exempted, is prohibited in cosmetic products in Europe.
Sources
• ECHA Weekly - New proposal to harmonise classification and labelling, ECHA, 18 October …
