The FDA recently released a recall on tattoo inks due to microbial contamination, where 8 different species were isolated from 3 recalled products.
Contaminated tattoo inks pose a massive risk to consumer health as associated infections can cause rashes, lesions, and inflammation.
Researchers in Applied Environmental Microbiology tested 75 commercial tattoo inks from 14 manufacturers and 26 of the products were found to be contaminated. The study isolated 22 bacterial species, 19 of which were pathogenic. As nearly 32% of U.S. residents have tattoos, ensuring the quality of tattoo ink is essential for public health.
Following implementation of the Modernization of Cosmetics Act (MoCRA), the FDA is expected to take a firmer stance against cosmetic adulteration. The Act amends the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to enforce reporting of adverse events, mandate recalls of adulterated products, and establish a timeline for the FDA to publish Cosmetic GMPs. The proposed rule on Cosmetic GMPs is scheduled for release on December 29th, 2024. The industry anticipates clear guidelines on microbial quality control, testing, and documentation practices. The final rule is scheduled for December 29th, 2025.
There are countless ways microbial contamination of personal care products can occur. Microchem not only tests products and manufacturing environments, but also works with companies in a consultative fashion to mitigate microbial risk in general. Our laboratory provides all the tests necessary, including air sampling, swab studies, water testing, preservative testing, specified pathogen detection and routine microbial batch testing.
Contact our lab or visit our cosmetics testing overview page to learn more.
