Developing Safe and Effective Pet Care Products: a Science Driven Approach
Interview with Anne Sirvent,
Scientific Communication and Innovation Manager at Eurofins
The pet care market is evolving rapidly. What key trends are driving this transformation?
The pet care market is undergoing significant change, driven by growing consumer demand for products that are both highly effective and safe for animals. Inspired by innovations in the cosmetics industry, brands are increasingly adopting advanced formulation concepts. However, successfully translating these approaches to pet care requires a dedicated scientific framework that takes into account the unique physiological and behavioural characteristics of different animal species.
What regulatory requirements apply to pet care products in Europe?
Unlike cosmetic products, pet care products are not covered by the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Instead, they fall under broader regulatory frameworks such as the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988, as well as REACH and CLP requirements for chemical substances. As a result, manufacturers must demonstrate product safety not only for the target animal but also for human users, including pet owners and professional groomers.
How does this dual responsibility influence product development?
Product development strategies must address both human and animal safety. Human safety is assessed through toxicological evaluations, exposure assessments, and standardised in vitro testing for endpoints such as skin irritation, eye irritation, and sensitisation. For spray products, inhalation risks must also be considered. At the same time, animal safety and efficacy need to be demonstrated using adapted methodologies that reflect species-specific differences and real-life conditions of use.
How can manufacturers demonstrate the safety and efficacy of pet care products?
A robust evaluation strategy combines several complementary approaches. These include veterinary-supervised tolerance studies, clinical assessments of skin and coat condition, and instrumental measurements where relevant. In addition, home-use tests provide valuable insights into product performance under real-life conditions while capturing feedback from pet owners. Together, these methodologies help ensure both product efficacy and animal welfare.
What additional challenges are emerging in the pet care sector?
One rapidly growing area is animal dietary supplements. Their expansion brings additional regulatory and analytical challenges, including the need to verify composition, control contaminant levels, and substantiate product claims. Addressing these aspects is essential to maintaining long-term product credibility and consumer trust.
How does Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care support brands in this evolving landscape?
Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care provides an integrated, science-based approach that combines safety assessment, clinical evaluation, analytical expertise, and regulatory guidance. By applying tailored methodologies designed to address both human and animal requirements, Eurofins helps brands develop safe, effective, and compliant pet care products that meet the growing expectations of today’s market.
Learn more: www.eurofins.com/cosmetics/products/pet-care-products/
