Oeko-Tex new regulations for 2018 have come into effect

Updates to the Oeko-Tex product portfolio came into effect on April 1 following a three-month transition period.

The most important changes are listed below with reference to the individual Oeko-Tex products.

Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Textiles made of organic cotton or with organic cotton parts must undergo an additional laboratory test for genetically modified organisms (GMO) if the applicant company intends to recognise its articles with corresponding quality designations such as organic or bio on the Standard 100 certificate.

The laboratory test proves whether or not genetic engineering has been applied to the cotton materials used.

Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex

From April 1, chemicals, colourants and other auxiliaries for textile production must still undergo a comparison with the Oeko-Tex RSL and MRSL (level 1) and also an analytical test for possible contaminations (level 2) but also, on-site check fromOeko-Tex.

The company visit means that Oeko-Tex is able to take a close look at both environmental management and the measures taken with regard to product stewardship. Three-level Eco Passport certification is possible from summer 2018.

From 2019 on, the three-level process will be mandatory for all certifications in line with Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex.

Detox to Zero by Oeko-Tex

The comparability of the Detox to Zero MRSL with the valid MRSL for STeP by Oeko-Tex certification means that Detox to Zero can be 100% integrated in STeP. Detox to Zero customers can switch to STeP at any time. Restructuring of the Detox to Zero assessment tool and the status report has improved user-friendliness and clarity.

Made in Green by Oeko-Tex

The minimum requirements and criteria for issuing the Made in Green by Oeko-Tex product label have been revised. The benefits of the new definition are: improved comprehensibility and reduced time required for attaining the label.

STeP by Oeko-Tex

The scope of the STeP assessment for collecting the required company data has been significantly reduced by condensing the question catalogue. With the integration of Detox to Zero, the STeP certificate and status report can now be issued with additional information on Detox to Zero.