2 minute read
Cannabis in the cosmetics industry
Maintaining GMP continues to be vital in the cosmetics industry. This is because one of its major objectives is to ensure the quality and safety of cosmetic products in circulation throughout the supply chain. To achieve this, companies involved manufacturing cosmetics and supplying the raw materials, as well as those distributing and selling finished products need to understand the implications of various legislations and how they impact the industry. By Andrea Mammes, Intertek lead auditor – cosmetics
The use of cannabidiol (CBD) found in cannabis and hemp plants has become a growing concern in the cosmetics industry, leaving most companies in disarray. This is because there is currently no international management for the use of CBD in cosmetic products globally.
Due to the nature of the raw material, each geographical region has developed its own regulations for the use of CBD in cosmetic products. In some countries, hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD oil) can easily be purchased on the internet, but the consequence of this may result in a product with reduced quality.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has advised that the use of extracted CBD or CBD isolate (pure CBD) is not permitted in cosmetics, in line with the amended schedules published in May 2020. This also means that CBD as an additive or ingredient is not permissible in processed products.
However, cosmetics made from the cannabis raw plant material and only containing the naturally occurring trace from the source material (i.e. not extracted) up to a maximum concentration of 00075% are permitted.
ASSURANCE, TESTING, INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES
Intertek offers cosmetics manufacturers in-depth knowledge on manufacturing processes and GMP codes. This allows companies to align themselves with legislations passed down by regulatory authorities such as SAHPRA. Intertek is accredited to award certifications such as ISO 22716:2007 to help companies meet their objectives, minimise risks and optimise their supply chains.
ISO 22716:2007 is an international standard for cosmetics GMP. A key benefit of this certificate includes the improvement of quality management systems. It also demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to the safety of cosmetic products and ensures their compliance with international guidelines.
With its global network of auditors, Intertek provides a full compliance solution for ISO 22716 including auditing and certification, training, and e-learning tools. The provider is also well-equipped to offer customers specialist expertise, support and services in the analysis of products, raw materials and consumer substrates through its network of laboratories located worldwide. As such, Intertek is an ideal partner to provide quality assured data to brands, retailers, manufacturers and suppliers, to help them understand and mitigate sources of product risk. •
Did you know?
Intertek offers cosmetics testing services. These include clinical studies, safety assessments, quality control, in vitro testing, product claims verification, screening for restricted substances, and supplier audits.
Intertek – www.intertek.com
