- INTRODUCTION
Wipes such as baby wipes, personal care wipes, and household cleaning wipes, has become increasingly popular in India.
These products offer quick and easy cleaning solutions for various purposes.
However it is crucial to understand the regulations surrounding wipes in India to ensure safety, effectiveness, and sustainability.
The blog will explore the regulatory landscape for wipes and the measures taken to safeguard consumers and the environment in India.
2. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR WIPES IN INDIA
The primary authorities in India responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of wipes include:
2.1. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):
FSSAI is the apex regulatory body responsible for setting standards for food and food-related products. Even though wipes are not considered food items, certain wipes for personal care, such as baby wipes need FSSAI’s guidelines on permissible ingredients and labeling requirements in regulating these products.
2.2. Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS):
BIS is a national standards body that formulates and maintains quality standards for a wide range of consumer products.
There are currently no specific BIS standards for wipes but the general quality standards for textiles and non-woven fabrics can apply to wipes manufacturing processes and materials.
Non-woven wipes are covered under IS17787: 2021.
This standard covers the minimum performance requirements for single-use nonwoven dry or wet wipes for baby care and personal hygiene and not on wet wipes impregnated with alcohol or wipes with a germicidal claim.
The non-woven fabric used in the manufacture of wipes must comply with IS 17788: 2021.
The wipes must be clean and free of any compounds that could cause tendering during storage and the length and width of the wipes must be agreed upon by both the buyer and seller.
2.3. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):
CPCB is responsible for regulating the environmental aspects of wipes, particularly those containing plastic components.
The board has been actively addressing concerns related to the disposal of wipes, as improper disposal can lead to clogging of sewage systems and environmental pollution.
3. KEY REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES:
3.1. Labelling and Composition:
Wipes for personal care must adhere to FSSAI’s guidelines on labeling requirements. It is essential for manufacturers to ensure that the composition of wipes is safe and complies with applicable guidelines.
Each packet of the wipes shall be legibly and indelibly marked with following information:
a) Name of the product
b) Length and width of the wipe
c) Number of wipes in a packet
d) Manufacturer’s name, initials or trademark, if any
e) Month and year of manufacture, batch/lot number
f) Intended use for example, baby, adult, facial, skin
g) Country of origin
h) Ingredient/chemicals used
i) Instruction for use, storage and safe disposal
j) Disposability instructions — The manufacturer shall provide the instruction to users for safe disposal of the product
k) Shelf life
l) Anti-bacterial if claimed
m) Any other requirement as per Medical Device Rules, 2017 or as required by the law in force or as agreed between the buyer and the seller.
4.ENSURING CONSUMER SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY:
4.1. Consumer Awareness
Consumers should look for wipes that comply with labeling requirements, prioritize biodegradable options, and consider brands that follow sustainability practices.
4.2. Responsible Manufacturing
By adhering to relevant guidelines, using safe and eco-friendly materials, and adopting sustainable manufacturing practices, manufacturers can contribute to a sustainable future.
4.3. Collaboration and Innovation
Government agencies, industry associations, and manufacturers need to work together to develop comprehensive regulations and guidelines for wipes which can lead to the production of wipes that are safer for consumers and the environment.
