News Brief
Recently, the Biocidal Products Committee (BPC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued an announcement declaring its support for the approval of Ethanol as an active substance for use in hand and general disinfectants. Although the Committee has not yet taken a position on whether ethanol is classified as a carcinogenic or reprotoxic substance, it confirmed that its safety for specific uses has been demonstrated.
The BPC adopted its opinion on ethanol during its meeting on February 24, 2026. This assessment focused on confirming whether ethanol demonstrates sufficient safety and efficacy in specific biocidal applications. Given the widespread application of ethanol in public health and industrial disinfection, this approval progress holds significant importance for the industry.
Recommended Product Types (PT 1, 2, & 4) for Approval and Hazard Classification Status
The BPC recommends approving ethanol as an active substance for use in the following three product types:
Product Type 1: Human hygiene (e.g., hand disinfectants);
Product Type 2: Disinfectants and algaecides not intended for direct application to humans or animals (i.e., general surface disinfection);
Product Type 4: Food and feed area disinfectants.
During this review process for ethanol, although certain data gaps remain, the BPC did not reach a final conclusion regarding the carcinogenicity or reproductive toxicity of ethanol in order to avoid delays in the approval process; consequently, no new hazard classification proposals were made.
Strategic Response Measures and Action Plan for the Industry
According to the procedures published by ECHA, enterprises involved in the ethanol business are advised to take the following response measures:
Monitor the Final Decision: The BPC opinion will be submitted to the European Commission. The Commission will draft a draft implementing regulation proposing approval or non-approval of the substance. Subsequently, EU Member States will vote within the Standing Committee on Biocidal Products. The decision becomes legally binding only after receiving a favorable vote and being formally adopted by the Commission.
Prepare for Product Authorisation: Once ethanol is formally approved, biocidal products containing ethanol must apply for authorisation under the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR). Companies may choose to apply for authorisation at the national level or apply for Union authorisation covering the entire EU.
Plan Ahead: It is recommended that companies begin compiling data on product efficacy, physical and chemical properties, and exposure now to prepare for upcoming product authorisation applications, ensuring they are not caught unprepared during the transition period following the regulation’s entry into force.
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