In 2023, Bureau REACH collaborated with two independent Dutch experts to contribute to the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC). The RAC advises on behalf of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Last year, the Dutch experts reported on several substances, including nitrous oxide and tea tree oil.
Nitrous oxide serves various purposes: medically, in food (whipped cream dispensers), and recreationally due to its brief yet potent euphoric effects. According to the RAC opinion, as prepared by the Dutch RAC member, nitrous oxide should be classified as toxic for reproduction and for inducing serious effects after prolonged exposure. If the European Commission adopts this recommendation, it must be mandatory to label it accordingly. Additional measures, such as restricting its supply to consumers except for food, are also deemed necessary.
Tea tree oil finds application as a pesticide, fragrance in personal care products, and in aromatherapy. The RAC opinion, drafted by the Dutch RAC member, suggests classifying tea tree oil as toxic for reproduction. If the European Commission endorses this advice, it must be obligatory to label it as such. Additional measures, including restricting its use as an active substance in pesticides, supplying it to consumers, and employing it in cosmetics, are also recommended.