Guangdong FDA Cosmetic Random Inspection Campaign

Takehome: Guangdong FDA has recently been conducting a campaign of unannounced spot checks on a number of cosmetic manufacturers and operators within its jurisdiction.

Six inspection teams were assigned to the campaign which targeted skin-whitening, freckle-removing and acne-removing products. The focus was on finding any prohibited substances or excessive use of restricted substances.

The on-site inspection collected product samples and examined the record keeping and product registration documentation. The inspection is ongoing and statistics and information will be published shortly after its conclusion.

Guangdong FDA has been a pioneer in the battle against illegal use of prohibited substances in cosmetic products. In its annual inspection plan, three rounds of random spot checks are scheduled for skin-whitening, freckle-removing and acne-removing products at different periods throughout 2015.

Random inspection is utilized by local FDA as a disincentive for companies involved in illegal use of cosmetics ingredients, unlawful distribution or those violating basic regulatory compliance requirements.