[Updated] EU SCCS Finalizes the Opinion on Silver Zinc Zeolite

On April 4, 2023, EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) published the preliminary opinion on the use of Silver Zinc Zeolite (CAS No. 130328-20-0) in cosmetics.¹ Following the feedback received during the commenting period, SCCS issued the final opinion on December 22, 2023.²

CMR substances are those classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction. To thoroughly protect human health, as a general principle, CMR substances are banned for use in cosmetics. In May 2017, Silver Zinc Zeolite was included into Regulation 1272/2008 on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixture (CLP Regulation) as a CMR substance. In light of this, Silver Zinc Zeolite was later added to the prohibited ingredient list in Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (Cosmetics Regulation) in May 2019. In August 2020, the European Commission received a dossier from the industry concerning the use of Silver Zinc Zeolite in cosmetics, particularly in spray deodorant and powder foundation. In response to it, the Commission mandated SCCS to carry out a safety assessment for this substance. 

Based on all available information, SCCS concludes in the opinion that when functioning as a preservative in spray deodorant and powder foundation, the use of Silver Zinc Zeolite (incorporating a maximum silver content of 2.5%) is safe at the proposed concentration of 1%. 

Further Reading

• EU SCCS Finalizes the Opinion as to Hydroxyapatite (nano)

• EU SCCS Finalizes Opinion on Aluminium