New Product Legislation

Terry.yeates@avecia.com

PETS International Magazine (ISSUE 2,2004)

New European legislation covering the use of biocides will have a significant impact on some of the pet care products and accessories currently on sale

Many of the chemicals now used in products seen on the shelves of retail outlets will no longer be permitted. Whilst these ingredients do not carry any immediate health or safety hazard it has been recognized that a full and extensive evaluation of such hazards to health and the environment needs to be considered. Consequently, European Legislation has been enforced to investigate such effects. The end result will be a rationalisationa rationalization of the chemicals being used, permitting only those proven to have an acceptable risk on human health and the environment.

What type of products will be affected?

The legislation will impact upon a wide range of products. Pet hygiene and antimicrobial cleansing products such as antibacterial hutch and cage cleaners, pet wipes, shampoos, disinfectants and sprays will be affected, as will some plastic accessories, cat litter and bedding products.

How will it affect the products on sale?

Manufacturers will have to review the active biocidal ingredients used in their product formulation against lists in recently published EU legislation (Regulation 2032/2003). Should the product formulation include an ingredient that is not on these lists, the manufacturer will be required to either re-formulate the product to conform to the new regulations, or eventually to with draw the product from sale.

By 2010 it is anticipated that a large proportion (possibly high as 60% across all product types) of the ingredients currently used in pet care products and accessories will be withdrawn from the market.

Advertising and Packaging

For biocidal products, such as disinfectant cage cleaners, the use of terms such as "low risk", "non-toxic", or "harmless" will no longer be permitted.

What are the manufacturers doing?

Already responsible manufacturers are addressing the issue. This enforced review of their products has been seen by some as an opportunity to develop new and improved lines. There are already biocidal actives available such as Avecia's Vantocil™，and Cosmocil™ antimicrobials that can be used in a range of antibacterial products as well as being incorporated into materials used to manufacture plastic accessories such as cages and carriers. Such products open a raft of possibilities for improving the hygiene of the pet environment to the benefit of both animal and owner.

How will it affect my business?

Over time manufacturers will be forced to withdraw products or re-formulate them using approved ingredients. An obvious effect will be the non-availability of some exiting products as they cease production. Less obvious will be a reformulation of other products to conform to the new legislation. In some cases this will be seen by manufacturers as an opportunity to re-launch the product with new packaging or labeling.

How can I prepare for this change?

By reading this article you are already preparing by becoming informed about the reasons for these changes. You are in a good position to explain to your customers that the reason for the changes is because we are becoming more conscious of the long-term effects of these products on the overall well being of humans and the environment and are seeking to minimize the impact that we have on human health and the eco-system.

By taking a little time to become aware of theses changes you will be able to help and reassure your customers, thereby adding value to the service you provide and helping create a long term relationship.