Commission calls for data on peanut oil and wheat proteins

The Commission has launched a public consultation which is open until November 10, and is calling all parties concerned to submit scientific data on the use of these ingredients.

“We are considering a consultation of the scientific committee on these ingredients and would like to invite all parties to contribute,”​ EU spokesperson for Enterprise and Industry Ton Van Lierop told CosmeticsDesign.

There are currently no specific regulations for these ingredients in the Cosmetics Directive and the consultation will help to determine whether further action is necessary.

Increased risk of developing allergies?​

In the case of peanut oil, concerns were raised about the use of the ingredient in products aimed at very young children.

An unexpected risk of food allergy to peanuts was reported in very young children where sensibilisation could have occurred through the use of peanut oil-containing cosmetics in the first six months of life, according to the Commission.

Peanut oil is used as a skin conditioning agent due to its ability to form a barrier and help prevent moisture loss from the skin.

Similarly, the concern over the use of hydrolysed wheat proteins is related to its potential to sensibilise consumers to the compound, which could lead to a higher risk of developing allergic reactions to it when ingested.

In addition, several cases of skin inflammation following contact with the ingredient have been reported (contact urticaria), according to the Commission.

In particular, the Commission is calling for data on the uses of peanut oil and hydrolysed wheat proteins in cosmetics and its potential link to sensibilisation, exposure data for the two ingredients and case reports on food and contact allergies.

For more information on where to send information, please click here​.