Understanding Restricted Substance Lists (RSLs): Why They Matter and 2024 Trends

In today’s consumer-driven market, safety and sustainability are more important than ever. This is where Restricted Substance Lists (RSLs) come into play. RSLs are comprehensive guidelines that identify chemicals and substances prohibited or restricted in consumer products. These lists, based on rigorous scientific research and regulatory standards, are crucial for protecting consumer health and the environment. But why exactly do RSLs matter, and how are they evolving in 2024? Let’s dive in.

Why RSLs Matter

Consumer Trust and Safety: Adhering to RSLs ensures that products are free from harmful chemicals, which directly enhances consumer trust. When customers know that a brand prioritizes safety, it builds loyalty and confidence, turning one-time buyers into repeat customers.
Regulatory Compliance: Staying compliant with local and international regulations is non-negotiable for brands and retailers. Following RSLs helps avoid costly fines and legal issues, and keeps your products on the shelves without interruption. Moreover, being proactive about regulatory changes can prevent product recalls, ensuring smooth market access.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility: Eliminating hazardous substances from products contributes to a healthier planet. This commitment to sustainability resonates with eco-conscious consumers and enhances your brand’s reputation, making your products more attractive in a competitive market.
Competitive Advantage: In a crowded market, brands that prioritize safety and compliance stand out. Meeting and exceeding RSL standards can serve as a unique selling point, drawing in discerning customers who value quality and safety.

2024 RSL Trends

As we move through 2024, several trends are emerging in the realm of RSLs across various retailers, including HEB, Sprouts, CVS, and Target:

PFAS, Phthalates, and Parabens are the most frequently added chemicals to RSLs, with five major retailers incorporating them into their lists.
Siloxanes, Benzophenones, BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), Bisphenol A, Boric Acid, and Borate Salts are also seeing increased regulation, with two retailers each adding these substances to their RSLs.

Insights from Cleaning Supplies Data

We analyzed 724 cleaning products at various retailers on our platform to see how they stack up against their own RSLs. Here’s what we found:

Beauty-Specific RSL Data

When it comes to beauty products, the numbers tell an intriguing story. From a dataset of 5,451 beauty products, we found that certain ingredients frequently violate RSLs:

CI 2242: Found in 41.1% of products.
Iron Oxides: Present in 28.6% of products.
Glycerin: Detected in 27.1% of products.
Titanium Dioxide: Appeared in 26.9% of products.
Phenoxyethanol: Found in 23.6% of products.

RSL Violations by Beauty Category

Breaking it down by category, makeup products topped the list:

Makeup: 46.44% of products violated RSLs.
Beauty: 22.76% violated RSLs.
Skincare: 6.71% violated RSLs.

Pet Products and RSLs

Interestingly, Petco is the only major pet retailer with an RSL. Analyzing 2,159 pet products across various retailers, we found that 7% violated Petco’s RSL. Notably, BHA, Potassium Sorbate, and Caramel Color were the most common violators. This suggests that other retailers, like Chewy and PetSmart, might be missing out on an opportunity to build consumer trust by not having their own RSLs.

Conclusion

In an era where consumers are increasingly aware of the ingredients in the products they purchase, RSLs play a critical role in maintaining safety, compliance, and brand reputation. As we’ve seen, the trends in 2024 point to a growing focus on eliminating harmful chemicals, with PFAS, Phthalates, and Parabens leading the charge. By staying ahead of these trends and adhering to RSLs, brands can not only ensure regulatory compliance but also gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Want us to check your catalog against your RSL? Reach out to our sales team.

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