Global technology company Genesis Biosciences has welcomed the revised EU Detergents Regulation (EU) 2026/405, which, for the first time, explicitly recognizes detergents containing microorganisms.

Genesis Biosciences is a manufacturer of safe, eco-benign antimicrobial and microbial technologies. With a fermentation facility and laboratories in Georgia, the company has created and delivered innovative, environmentally responsible, and scientifically validated microbial solutions across the U.S. and U.K. markets for over two decades.

Microbial products utilize microorganisms, such as Bacillus, as functional raw materials and active ingredients. Despite being commonplace for several decades, microbial-based cleaning products have reshaped the market in recent years, emerging as a green alternative to chemical-based cleaning products.

The updated legislative framework governs the safety, composition, labelling, and environmental impact of detergent products placed on the European market and now reflects the advances in cleaning, including the growing use of microbial and enzyme-based formulations.

"We are pleased to see the new provisions introduced in the regulation include microbial ingredients," says Dr. Emma Saunders, General Manager at Genesis Biosciences. "This change acknowledges that microbial-based cleaning products are now a significant part of the mainstream market, reflecting innovation in cleaning technologies and a shift towards environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional chemical surfactants."

The new requirements for detergents containing intentionally added microorganisms include the ability to be identified and characterized using whole genome sequence analysis and taxonomic information, no genetic modification, and standard plate count and shelf life conditions. Detergents containing microorganisms will only be placed on the market if safe for human use, the environment is demonstrated in accordance with the microbial risk assessment methodology, and all claims regarding actions and performance can be substantiated with the appropriate tests.

The updated regulation entered into effect on March 22, but manufacturers and stakeholders will be able to operate under previous requirements during the transition period until September 23, 2029. The legislation will apply to all EU member states, as well as manufacturers producing detergents within the EU, importers and distributors who place detergents on the EU market, and non-EU manufacturers placing products into the market.

"We remain committed to maintaining high standards of regulatory compliance and supporting customers with clear guidance as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve," adds Dr. Saunders.