How are fragrance materials regulated?
Fragrance materials are regulated in the United States by a complex system of government bodies and self-regulation by the manufacturers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetics. Fragrance materials are also subject to a variety of environmental regulations administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The global fragrance industry has instituted self-regulation that is administered through IFRA of which FMA is a member. Fragrance material safety is assessed by the Expert Panel of the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) using state of the art scientific methods including but not limited to toxicology, biochemistry, and dermatology. The Panel is composed of independent scientists from public and private academic and research institutions. The IFRA Code of Practice is based on the conclusions of the Panel and is periodically re-evaluated and updated by the Panel to ensure that current safety considerations are incorporated. Members of IFRA ar
