European Parliament questions the consequences of reclassifying ethanol  

A.I.S.E. is pleased to see that the European Parliament has submitted a written question to the European Commission on the potential reclassification of ethanol as part of the evaluation of biocidal active substances. The question has been presented by MEP Christine Singer and signed by 26 MEPs. This step is part of the democratic process between the European institutions, and the European Commission now has 6 weeks to reply in writing to the parliamentary question.

The question concerns the overall impact that the reclassification of ethanol as toxic to reproduction and carcinogenic (Category 1) would have not only on society and European industry, but also on competitiveness and the compatibility of such a reclassification with the Commission’s sustainability goals.

The potential classification could result in a de facto ban on its use in disinfectants, detergents, and cleaning products. Ethanol is a vital ingredient for these products, applied in daily use in products such as hand and surface sanitisers for healthcare and the food chain.

Such a reclassification could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the detergent industry but also for multiple other sectors. The Parliament’s questions emphasise the urgent need for action and the growing recognition of the challenges industry is facing.

Read the full text of the written question on the European Parliament’s website:

Read more about ethanol in A.I.S.E. newsroom: