Hygienic Tools Help Cosmetics Manufactures Adhere FD&C Act

The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C) prohibits the introduction or delivery into interstate commerce of cosmetics that are adulterated or misbranded (Sec. 301). A cosmetic may be deemed adulterated (Sec. 601) for essentially four reasons, namely:

1. It may be injurious to users under conditions of customary use because it contains, or its container is composed of, a potentially harmful substance
2. It contains filth
3. It contains a non-permitted, or in some instances non-certified, color additive
4. It is manufactured or held under insanitary conditions whereby it may have become injurious to users or contaminated with filth

Rigorous adherence to good manufacturing practice (GMP) minimizes the risk of adulteration or misbranding of cosmetics. The FDA's Inspection Operations Manual provides several guidelines for effective self-inspection including:

• Proper cleaning and maintenance of manufacturing facilities
• Floors, walls and ceilings are constructed of smooth, easily cleanable surfaces and are kept clean and in good repair
• Fixtures, ducts and pipes are installed in such a manner that drip or condensate does not contaminate cosmetic materials, utensils, cosmetic contact surfaces of equipment, or finished products in bulk
• Equipment and utensils used in processing, holding, transferring and filling are of appropriate design, material and workmanship to prevent corrosion, buildup of material, or adulteration
• The equipment for processing, transfer and filling the utensils, and the containers for holding raw and bulk materials are clean, in good repair and in sanitary condition
• Utensils, transfer piping and cosmetic contact surfaces of equipment are well-maintained and clean and are sanitized at appropriate intervals
• Cleaned and sanitized portable equipment and utensils are stored and located, and cosmetic contact surfaces of equipment are covered, in a manner that protects them from splash, dust or other contamination
• Persons coming into direct contact with cosmetic materials, finished products in bulk or cosmetic contact surfaces, to the extent necessary to prevent adulteration of cosmetic products, wear appropriate outer garments, gloves, hair restraints etc., and maintain adequate personal cleanliness

Manufacturers in the Health, Nutrition and Beauty industries such as cosmetics, supplements, and  nootropics can adhere to these FD&C guidelines to ensure consumer safety/trust in their products by choosing tools that are purpose-built for food safety and material handling. Union Jack offers an extensive selection of hygienic material handling and sanitary cleaning products including Type 316 stainless steel pharma scoops and a full line of FDA-compliant, color-coded brushes, scoops, shovels, wall brackets for tool storage, brooms and floor/ceiling/wall squeegees that assist in preventing bacterial contamination. The color-coding provides a visual indicator that segments your processing areas, allows for the segmentation of allergens, and overcomes language barriers in safety training. Our reusable and color-coded protective garments help your staff avoid direct contact with cosmetic/supplement materials and finished product. Embracing good manufacturing practices (GMP) along with the right tools can ensure your manufacturing facility stays compliant!

For more information, visit our  Health and Nutrition section of the store.