BS EN ISO 21148:2017

What is this standard about?

BS EN ISO 21148 is an international standard which outlines specifications for carrying out microbiological examinations of cosmetic products. It aims to ensure quality and safety, in accordance with an appropriate risk analysis such as low water activity, hydro alcoholic or extreme pH values. 

Who is this standard for? 

• Laboratories testing cosmetic products
• Manufacturers of cosmetic products 
• Health and safety executives

Why should you use this standard? 

Use of BS EN ISO 21148 helps ensure that the general techniques used for conducting cosmetic microbiological examinations are the same in all laboratories. This will protect the health of lab personnel by preventing the risk of infection. Precautions outlined include an emphasis on personal hygiene and working techniques which exclude extraneous contamination. 

NOTE: Because of the large variety of products and potential uses within this field of application, these specifications might not be appropriate for some products in every detail (e.g. certain water-immiscible products).

What’s changed since the last update?

• This second edition replaces the 2005 version and constitutes a minor revision 
• It has been systematically reviewed by experts, who have taken into consideration recent material, technological and industry developments
• In clause 6, ‘validation of methodology’ has been changed to ‘verification of the methods’
• In clause 8.2.1, ‘validated’ was changed to ‘demonstrated to be suitable’
• In clause 13, ‘validated’ was changed to ‘demonstrated to be suitable’