Labeling guide

GHS labels for fragrance mixtures

A fragrance compound is classified as a mixture: hazards are added up from the composition using the calculation rules (OSHA HCS 2024 in the US, CLP in the EU). The label then carries the pictograms, signal word, hazard and precautionary statements that follow from that classification, plus the product identifier and supplier details.

• Use the composition of the grades actually used, including the components of each natural.
• Skin sensitisers trigger at 1% (0.1% for category 1A substances in the EU).
• Aquatic toxicity often drives the environmental pictogram for compounds rich in terpenes.

Make a free SDS to see the classification for your composition.

Fragrance allergens in the ingredient list

In the EU, each labelled allergen must be named in the ingredient list when it is above 0.001% in leave-on or 0.01% in rinse-off products. Regulation (EU) 2023/1545 extended the list; the UK has its own timetable under the GB cosmetics regulation.

Use the allergen calculator.

Fragrance under MoCRA

US cosmetic labels may declare “fragrance” or “parfum” as one term. MoCRA requires FDA to set rules for naming fragrance allergens on labels; check the current status of that rule before finalising artwork. Some states also require disclosure of certain fragrance ingredients.

Naming flavors

• Natural flavor: all flavoring comes from the named food or other natural sources.
• “Natural strawberry flavor with other natural flavors” (WONF): some of the natural flavor comes from sources other than strawberry.
• From the named food (FTNF): flavor entirely derived from the food named, for example “natural lemon flavor” sourced only from lemon.
• Artificial flavor: contains any flavoring not from a natural source. The product name must say “artificially flavored” where required.
• Natural and artificial flavor: both kinds are present.

Solvents, carriers and other non-flavoring ingredients in a flavor supplied to a manufacturer are declared in descending order of predominance.

Proposition 65 warnings

A warning is needed when a product can expose consumers to a listed chemical above its safe harbor level, unless an exemption applies. Short-form warnings are allowed on small labels; the content is set by the OEHHA regulations. Find Prop 65 substances.

Transport labels

• UN1266 Perfumery products, Class 3, for flammable fragrances.
• UN1197 Extracts, liquid, for flavour or aroma, Class 3, for flammable flavors.
• Combustible liquid (US DOT): a flammable liquid with a flash point of 38 °C (100 °F) or above that meets no other hazard class can be reclassified and is not regulated in non-bulk packaging (49 CFR 173.120(b)(2), 173.150(f)).