Matthias Vey, Vice-President Scientific Affairs at IFRA, highlights the revision of the furocoumarins standard as a clear example of IFRA’s approach to product stewardship. Furocoumarins, naturally present in certain natural complex substances, most of them citrus oils, are known for their phototoxic properties and are regulated by both IFRA and public authorities.
The revised Standard was developed through a dedicated working group representing the full fragrance value chain including the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM), supported by a comprehensive review of available scientific findings established within IFRA. IFRA also engaged closely with regulators to align technical criteria and implementation as much as possible.
The process strengthened regulatory coherence, ensured high levels of consumer safety and set a benchmark for future Standards development, reinforcing IFRA’s leadership in science-based self-regulation.
