Shemaine Bushnell Kyriakides
According to GIS, as of January 2021, companies introducing new products into EU countries that contain harmful chemicals must have a UFI code (Unique Formula Identifier). As for prodcuts launched into the EU market before 2021, companies will have until the beginning of 2025 to comply with this requirement.
This move will allow people to quickly and accurately identify the product used and allow authorities to effectively administer the appropriate treatment in cases of poisoning.
According to statistics, European Poison Centers have difficulty identifying the product used in about 40% of calls received. The UFI code allows the person in charge to locate the product on a database and have access to all the relevant information about the product. Information that can save a life in case of an accident.
Requirements state that the UFI code must always be in a visible place on the product label, either next to its brand name or warning section, and should not be placed on the bottom of the package.
Products that must bear the UFI code are cleaning and maintenance products that are used both indoors, such as kitchens or bathrooms, as well as outdoors or are cleaning products for cars, shoes, etc.
UFI's will also be required for laundry and dish detergents, fabric softeners, air fresheners, scented candles, paints used in crafts, correction fluids, adhesives, e-cigarette liquids, garden chemicals, fuels for lighters and lamps, inks and toners for printers, adhesives.
Cosmetics such as hair dyes, shampoos, hairsprays, or medicines are not required to have a UFI code as they are regulated by other regulatory bodies.
