Thailand Issues Clarification on Piperonal Use in Cosmetics Under Narcotics Exemption

On November 4, 2025, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) issued a notice reaffirming the exemption status of piperonal (CAS No. 120-57-0) when used in cosmetics. This follows the Ministry of Public Health's September 2025 Announcement on the Classification of Schedule IV Narcotic Drugs (No. 3), which introduced specific exemption conditions for certain products containing piperonal.

Previously, piperonal was listed as a Schedule IV narcotic drug under the Narcotics Code, without any exemptions. The latest MOPH Announcement establishes the conditions under which the substance may be legitimately used in cosmetics and other consumer products.

Exemption Conditions

Under the announcement, piperonal is exempt from classification as a Schedule IV narcotic drug when used under the following conditions:

• As a component in flavoring agents (under the food law), flavoring or skin-perfuming agents (under the cosmetics law), or flavoring agents (under the hazardous substances law), at a concentration not exceeding 10%.

• As an ingredient in finished food products, cosmetics, or household hazardous substances, at a concentration not exceeding 1%.

Compliance Requirements

To support compliance, the Thai FDA requires cosmetic notifiers of products containing piperonal to:

• Use the INCI name “HELIOTROPINE” or the technical name “PIPERONAL”; and

• Maintain detailed records in the Product Information File (PIF) demonstrating adherence to the exemption conditions, which shall be made available for inspection by officials.

Industry Implications

This move provides clear guidelines for the food, cosmetic, and chemical industries, allowing the lawful use of piperonal in consumer products within defined concentration limits while maintaining regulatory control over the substance.