Global technology company Genesis Biosciences has welcomed the revised EU Detergents Regulation (EU) 2026/405 which has explicitly recognised detergents containing microorganisms for the first time.
Genesis Biosciences, whose European technical facility is located in Cardiff, has created and delivered innovative, environmentally responsible and scientifically validated microbial solutions for over two decades.
Microbial products use microorganisms such as Bacillus as functional raw materials and active ingredients. Despite being commonplace for several decades, microbial-based cleaning products have reshaped the market in recent years, emerging as a green alternative to chemical-based cleaning products.
The updated legislative framework governs the safety, composition, labelling and environmental impact of detergent products placed on the European market and now reflects the advances in cleaning, including the growing use of microbial and enzyme-based formulations.
Dr Emma Saunders, General Manager at Genesis Biosciences, said: “We are pleased to see the new provisions introduced in the regulation include microbial ingredients. This change acknowledges that microbial-based cleaning products are now a significant part of the mainstream market, reflecting innovation in cleaning technologies and a shift towards environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional chemical surfactants.”
The new requirements for detergents containing intentionally added microorganisms include the ability to be identified and characterised using whole genome sequence analysis and taxonomic information, no genetic modification, and standard plate count and shelf life conditions. Detergents containing microorganisms will only be placed on the market if safe use for humans and the environment is demonstrated in accordance with the microbial risk assessment methodology and all claims regarding actions and performance can be substantiated with the appropriate tests.
The updated regulation entered into effect on 22 March, but manufacturers and stakeholders will be able to operate under previous requirements during the transition period until 23 September 2029. The legislation will apply to all EU member states, as well as manufacturers producing detergents within the EU, importers and distributors who place detergents on the EU market and non-EU manufacturers placing products into the market.
Dr Emma Saunders said: “We are committed to ensuring that regulatory frameworks remain science-based, proportionate and supportive of innovation within the cleaning products sector. We have been actively monitoring the development of the revised EU Detergents Regulation and throughout the legislative process have contributed scientific expertise relating to microbial technologies, industry insights and engagement with regulatory stakeholders.
“In depth scientific validation and verification is the backbone of our product development processes, enabling us to evidence the safety, quality and efficacy of our microbial-based cleaning products. The Bacillus strains intentionally incorporated into our microbial cleaning technologies such as Evogen and Evozyme meet several key characteristics that align with the expected regulatory approach and direction of the EU’s new framework.
“We remain committed to maintaining high standards of regulatory compliance and supporting customers with clear guidance as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve.”
