Answer given by Mr Andriukaitis on behalf of the Commission

13.8.2015

Formaldehyde is currently under evaluation for its uses as a biocide within the review programme of the Biocides Regulation (EU) No 528/212. This substance can currently be used as a general disinfectant, as a disinfectant for veterinary hygiene and for embalming or taxidermy operations.

Depending on the outcome of this evaluation, the use of formaldehyde may be further restricted. In particular, products containing this substance are currently placed on the market under the national rules of each Member State and will have to be specifically assessed and authorised in the future. Furthermore, formaldehyde is classified according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 as Carcinogenic Category cB and therefore meets the exclusion criteria set under the Biocides Regulation. This will lead either to its ban or to severe restrictions, as product authorisation will only be possible if the risks linked to its use are negligible, or if the substance is essential in the absence of appropriate alternatives. In such a situation, Member States will be allowed to grant authorisations only for a limited period of time and these authorisations will be regularly reviewed in order to promote substitution of formaldehyde.