Microbiological Safety of Cosmetics and the Role of Product Testing

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) reports that cosmetics sold in the United States are required to be safe when consumers use them according to directions in the labeling, or in the customary or expected way. These products must not be adulterated and are also required to not be prepared, packed, or stored in a way in which they may become contaminated or harmful to health.

Companies that manufacture or distribute cosmetics are legally responsible for the safety of their products, including making sure cosmetics are free of harmful microorganisms. Testing is one of the things manufacturers, importers and distributors can do to help ensure the microbiological safety of a cosmetic product.

The following is a list of some of the ways cosmetics may become contaminated with bacteria or fungi according to the FDA:

• Contaminated raw materials, water, or other ingredients
• Poor manufacturing conditions
• Ingredients that encourage growth of microorganisms, without an effective preservative system
• Packaging that doesn’t protect a product adequately
• Poor shipping or storage conditions
• Consumer use, such as the need to dip fingers into the product

MPL Laboratories is dedicated to helping manufacturers, importers, and distributors of cosmetics test for microbial contaminants that could put consumers at risk, jeopardize product shelf life and lead to costly recalls. Their scientists specialize in the microbiological analysis of soaps, shampoos, lotions, topicals, skin care, anti-aging, and beauty products. Testing services take place in MPL’s FDA registered, cGMP and ISO 17025 compliant laboratory to ensure the highest quality results.

To learn more about cosmetic or other personal care product testing services provided by MPL Laboratories, please visit www.MPLLaboratories.com, call (800) 548-1874 or email info@MPLLaboratories.com .

About MPL Laboratories

MPL Laboratories (formerly Marypaul Laboratories) was founded in 1985 as a full-service microbiology laboratory. It is cGMP compliant, FDA and DEA registered, ISO/IEC 17025 accredited by PJLA, and NJDEP certified. MPL’s staff includes M.S. and B.S. degreed microbiologists and other dedicated scientists. The microbiology testing laboratory serves the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, personal care and food industries. MPL aims to provide its clients with high quality, reliable test data in a timely manner. The laboratory is part of the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network of laboratories across the United States and Canada.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

MPL Laboratories

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail