The European Union updates its detergents legislation: new obligations, digital formats and expanded biodegradability requirements

On 2 March 2026, Regulation (EU) 2026/405 was published, repealing Regulation (EC) 648/2004 and establishing a fully updated framework for detergents and surfactants in the European Union. The new regulation promotes sustainability, innovation and digitalisation, introducing broader definitions, specific rules for detergents containing microorganisms, the Digital Product Passport and new biodegradability requirements.

Regulation 2026/405 — What is its purpose?

The regulation modernises the European framework to reflect a rapidly evolving market in which new types of products and practices such as detergents containing microorganisms or refill-based sales, did not fit within the previous legislation. It also aims to remove duplications, improve traceability and leverage digital tools, while aligning with the sustainability objectives of the European Green Deal.

Regulation 2026/405 — What are the key new elements?

A broader definition of “detergent”

The new definition covers products that were not previously fully regulated. Detergents now also include products containing intentionally added microorganisms, washing auxiliaries such as odour modifiers, products applied to food-contact surfaces (including fruit and vegetables), or those marketed through refill systems. This significantly expands the regulatory scope compared with the 2004 framework.

Specific rules for detergents containing microorganisms

The Regulation recognises that detergents with microorganisms present different risks from traditional chemical-based detergents, as microorganisms may survive, reproduce and generate metabolites. As a result, clear taxonomic identification, safety evidence and the development of a harmonised risk assessment methodology by the Commission are required.

Progressive extension of biodegradability requirements

The regulation adopts a much broader perspective on biodegradability. First, by 2032, specific criteria will apply to water soluble polymer films used in formats such as single dose capsules. Then, by 2034, the requirements will also cover other organic substances added at concentrations of 10% w/w or higher. This represents a major shift compared with the previous framework, which focused solely on surfactants.

Digital Product Passport (DPP)

The introduction of the Digital Product Passport is one of the most impactful changes. This system will consolidate all essential information about the detergent or surfactant intended for end users, including an image of the packaging, full list of ingredients and microorganisms, and traceability data, within a single digital space. It must be accessible prior to purchase, including in online sales. Its aim is to strengthen transparency, facilitate market surveillance and improve access to information across the value chain.

Complementary digital labelling

The regulation allows certain mandatory information to be provided in a digital format. Essential safety information must always remain on the physical label, while other details may be accessed via a link or code. The Commission will define specific technical requirements before 1 October 2028.

Regulation of refill based sales

For the first time, the European Union sets a regulatory framework for detergents supplied through refill systems. Basic safety requirements for refill stations are established, and products must meet the same information and compliance obligations as packaged products. This integrates refilling into the legal framework and supports more circular and sustainable consumption models.

Regulation 2026/405 — Who is affected?

The regulation applies to all operators involved in the marketing of detergents and surfactants: manufacturers, importers, distributors and refill operators. It has particular impact on those manufacturing detergents containing microorganisms or using water soluble capsules, as well as on companies that must implement the new Digital Product Passport. Indirectly, suppliers of raw materials used in detergents may also be affected due to new customer requirements arising from the regulation.

Regulation 2026/405 — When does it apply?

The general application date is 23 September 2029, with a broad transition period. Detergents placed on the market before that date in compliance with Regulation 648/2004 may continue to be sold without a time limit. Those introduced between 22 September 2029 and 23 September 2030 may be sold until the latter date. Biodegradability requirements for films and organic substances will apply progressively until 2032 and 2034.

At Siam, we help chemical companies interpret and apply Regulation (EU) 2026/405. In addition to supporting all aspects related to safety data sheets, labelling and ingredient listings, we are adapting our SdSArea tool so it can operate as a data support platform for the creation of mandatory Digital Product Passports, thus enabling full compliance under the new regulation.