Scientific Program
The EFEO–IFEAT Scientific Program is a joint initiative of the European Federation of Essential Oils (EFEO) and the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades (IFEAT). Its mission is to ensure that essential oils and plant extracts are accurately and appropriately classified under the EU CLP Regulation (EC No. 1272/2008) and the REACH Regulation (EC No. 1907/2006). The central aim of the program is to contribute to the scientific basis required for the European Commission’s 2029 review of the temporary derogation (Article 54a), granted in November 2024, which exempts these natural materials from the More-than-One-Constituent Substance (MOCS) classification rules.
The initiative is overseen by a Consortium Steering Committee (CSC) representing both EFEO and IFEAT, supported by CEHTRA (Centre for Expertise in Chemical Toxicology and Regulatory Affairs). Coordination is led by Jonathan Bonello (IFEAT) and Jocelyne Kurtz (EFEO).
Since its launch in late 2023, the program has advanced steadily along a clearly defined Scientific Roadmap, engaging independent experts, academic partners, and industry specialists across four Working Groups dedicated to data analysis, analytical profiling, human toxicology, and environmental behavior. Through this work, the program is generating comprehensive data to support the long-term upholding of the derogation, providing the foundation for ensuring the correct and scientifically sound classification of essential oils within the European Union. It also aims to demonstrate that essential oils are unique materials, naturally complex single substances fundamentally different from synthetically reconstituted mixtures, and to demonstrate that their properties cannot be inferred from those of their individual components.
We’re still working on this page, but please come back very soon to find more information on the EFEO-IFEAT Scientific Program.