EPA Safer Choice: Formula Ingredient and Label Claim Review
EPA Safer Choice is a voluntary labeling program administered by the U.S. EPA and is commonly used for cleaners, detergents, and related chemical products. Before applying or using related claims, companies should map full formula, ingredient records, performance testing, packaging information, and label authorization to the same product and SKU.
Pre-Application Checklist
| Item | Review focus | Common risk |
|---|---|---|
| Product category | Confirm whether the product is in a category covered by the program | An uncovered category is presented as directly eligible |
| Full formula | Review all intentionally added ingredients, concentration ranges, functions, and supplier information | Formula version does not match the sales product |
| Ingredient records | Organize SDS, ingredient descriptions, SCIL comparison, and supplier declarations | Fragrance, dye, preservative, or blend records are incomplete |
| Performance and packaging | Confirm records for performance testing, use scenario, and packaging requirements | Ingredients are reviewed while performance or packaging requirements are missed |
| Labels and listing wording | Confirm authorization for standard name, mark, and claim wording | Mark or claim is used for uncovered SKUs or materials |
Claim Boundaries
- State which product, formula version, and SKU the claim applies to.
- Do not expand one product's program conformity beyond the covered scope.
- After formula, supplier, packaging, or label changes, review the records again.
- E-commerce pages, packaging, labels, and advertising assets should use the same authorized expression.
Green Ark's Recommendation
Green Ark (Shenzhen) Certification Co., Ltd. recommends building a checklist that links product category, full formula, ingredient records, performance testing, and listing wording. Safer Choice-related claims are suitable for customer-facing pages only when scope, formula version, and authorization records are clear.
