The COSMOS-standard is an internationally recognized framework that sets benchmarks for sustainability, transparency, and ethical practices in the cosmetic industry. It ensures products meet rigorous criteria while addressing all aspects of sourcing, manufacturing, marketing, and control. Over 59,000 products and raw materials across 86 countries now carry the COSMOS signature, making it a trusted mark for consumers worldwide.

The standard defines criteria to guarantee that products marketed as organic or natural are genuine and produced using the highest feasible sustainability practices. Certified products adhere to strict requirements across areas such as ingredient origin, organic content, eco-friendly packaging, and clear labeling. These certifications, overseen by independent bodies, promote consumer confidence and transparency.

Certification Types

COSMOS certification is available for both finished products and raw materials. The COSMOS ORGANIC certification is awarded to products meeting all criteria, including the required percentages of organic ingredients, while the COSMOS NATURAL certification applies to those adhering to all standards except the organic content thresholds. For raw materials, COSMOS CERTIFIED is designated for those with organic content that meets the standard, and COSMOS APPROVED applies to non-organic raw materials suitable for use in COSMOS-certified products.

Core Principles and Key Features

The COSMOS-standard is guided by four core principles: promoting organic agriculture and biodiversity, ensuring responsible use of natural resources, employing clean and health-conscious manufacturing processes, and advancing green chemistry. It addresses key aspects such as:

• Origin and Processing of Ingredients: Standards for water, minerals, and various ingredient types.
• Product Composition: Calculations for organic content and thresholds for certification.
• Environmental Management: Emphasis on waste minimization and recycling.
• Labelling and Communication: Transparent product information to prevent misleading claims.
• Inspection and Certification: Comprehensive audits conducted by independent certification bodies.

Governance and Updates

The COSMOS-standard is managed by the non-profit, international COSMOS-standard AISBL based in Brussels. It was established by five founding members: BDIH (Germany), Cosmebio (France), Ecocert (France), ICEA (Italy), and the Soil Association (UK). The board works with technical and certifier committees to continuously develop and refine the standard.

The current Version 4.1 of the COSMOS-standard took effect on March 1, 2024, and allows raw materials certified under Version 3.1 to be used in certified products until December 1, 2025. The standard's global reach and commitment to sustainability make it a benchmark in the cosmetics industry.

For further details, visit the COSMOS-standard website.