SGS, a leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, has gained accreditation from South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for the testing of cosmetics at its laboratory in Uiwang, South Korea. MFDS, formerly known as the Korea Food & Drug Administration or KFDA, is the governmental agency that regulates food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and cosmetics in South Korea.

 
The regulatory testing of cosmetics for cosmetics manufactured, imported or distributed in Korea, is based on the Regulations on the Safety Standards, etc. of Cosmetics (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety Notice) published according to Article 8 of the Cosmetic Act. The Act stipulates the ingredients that are banned and/or restricted for use in cosmetic products.In November 2018 it updated restrictions in the Regulation on Safety Standards of Cosmetics adding five substances to the prohibited substances list – three fragrance ingredients, plus nitromethane and methylene glycol.

 
“We’re very proud to have enhanced our offer at our laboratory in Korea through this significant accreditation from MFDS," said Sam Yuk, account manager, SGS. "Safety and quality are vital for the manufacture of personal care products and, through this accreditation, we are better placed to ensure clients are compliant with the current and upcoming legislation applicable to their products, and able to meet the demands of today’s consumers.”
 

Along with testing, SGS in Korea offers additional added value solutions to help manufacturers, importers and retailers understand the applicable requirements; check the safety, quality and performance of their products throughout the supply chain; and protect their brand:
 

• Technical assistance (e.g. review of labeling)
• Audits (e.g. GMP audits, HACCP audits, social/factory/environmental audits)
• Inspections
• Certification programs
• Sustainability services (e.g. ecodesign, carbon footprint)

 
SGS began operating in Korea in 1955, initially providing agricultural and mining inspection services. After decades of continued success, SGS Korea has grown into a large, diverse and integrated company, providing specialized business solutions to improve quality, safety and productivity, and reduce risks. It calls itself the country’s leading provider of inspection, testing, verification and certification services across a wide range of industries from agriculture, gas and chemicals to consumer products.