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My Reward PointsAmong the various product identifiers available in the market, the Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) labels play a crucial role. They identify the product based on its ingredients and ensure that they are labelled correctly on the product package. Therefore, any CLP-compliant product gains customer trust easily. More details about why CLP symbols and CLP label requirements play a key role in a product's success are provided in the sections below.
What are CLP Labels?
As discussed above, CLP labels ensure whether hazardous chemicals are present in the product or not. They also ensure that the product is classified correctly according to its ingredients and manufacturing standards. A CLP label also verifies whether the correct precautionary statements have been included in the product's packaging and labels. Due to these reasons, having CLP safety labels for the products can make a big difference for any brand.
Why Does CLP Compliance Matter?
Since June 2015, CLP labelling has been mandatory in the United Kingdom and the European Union for non-cosmetic products containing hazardous ingredients, such as essential oils or fragrance oils.
CLP compliance also matters due to the upcoming regulatory updates and formatting changes related to the font size and layout of labels under the EU amendments, effective from January 2025. Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in product recalls and penalties. It would also harm the brand's reputation and lead to a loss of customer trust.
What to Include on the CLP Label?
Here are the things that should be included on the CLP label as per the latest regulatory requirements:
1. Product Identifier
The key ingredient or mixture that classifies the product must be clearly mentioned in the CLP label. This information must also match the details provided in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
2. Hazard Symbols
Standardised CLP hazard symbols that reflect the nature and degree of the hazardous substances used in the product must be depicted clearly on the product labels. Not having them clearly means that the brand is trying to hide the hazards from potential users.
3. Unique Formula Identifier
A 16-character Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) must also be present on the product labels. This alphanumeric code enables the health clinics to identify the formula being used in the product and suggest relevant treatments or first aid remedies.
4. Signal Words
The two main signal words in CLP labels are 'Danger' and 'Warning'. The danger label clearly indicates the hazardous substance used in the product. On the other hand, a warning means a lesser danger that the users must be aware of before using the product.
5. Allergen Information
The CLP-compliant products also disclose the allergen information of the product. It defines the compounds that may cause allergic reactions in some people. The allergen section typically starts with the word 'Contains'.
6. Precaution Statements
The precautionary statements describe how to use, manage, store, and dispose of the product after use. These statements inform users on how to use the product with minimal risk of health damage. So, having them in CLP labels makes sense.
Label Size & Design Considerations
The label size and design vary as per the product size and packaging. Large containers require larger labels and bold fonts to maintain readability of the CLP labels. The designs must be placed horizontally to avoid any confusion.
The pictograms must be clearly depicted in the labels, irrespective of the packaging type and shape. The hazardous symbols must be placed on a red frame using a white background and black symbols.
CLP Labels for Candles, Sizzlers & Similar Products
As the candles, sizzlers, and similar products may contain fragrance oils and other hazardous substances, the CLP labels must be present on their packaging. The precautionary statements and CLP hazard symbols must be clearly provided in the packaging to inform customers before they use or handle the products. The hazard information for specific ingredients can be obtained from the supplier.
How to Create a CLP Label?
First, get the hazard information and documentation, such as MSDS, from the supplier. Then, use a design platform like Canva or Adobe Photoshop to design the CLP labels. Use predefined formats and templates to create the labels with ease. If you lack the design skills, consider hiring a professional graphic designer for your product design and packaging labels.
Conclusion
We hope you have now understood the importance of CLP labels. You must ensure that all your products comply with CLP regulations. You can also collaborate with a private label company, such as BO International, which handles all product formulation, packaging, and labelling requirements on its own. Contact us today for more information on our private label products and services.
