The use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics in home care and personal care packaging is accelerating, but safety qualification remains a critical barrier. These applications demand a higher level of scrutiny due to consumer exposure, especially leave on products, formulation interaction, and long product shelf life.

The CosPaTox Consortium has addressed this challenge by publishing a voluntary industry guideline and scientific dossier defining a robust, technology-neutral framework for the safety assessment of PCR plastics used in cosmetics, detergents, and home care packaging. Norner supports the practical implementation of this framework by offering integrated, end-to-end testing and assessment capability for PCR materials and packaging components.

Targeted & Non-targeted Analysis of PCR

A core element of the CosPaTox guideline is the combined use of targeted and non‑targeted analysis to identify and assess potential contaminants in PCR resins.

Norner supports both approaches, including:

• Targeted analysis of selected substances of interest: heavy metals, PAA, PAH, PCB Bisphenols, Dioxins, Furans and Phthalates
• Non-targeted screening (migration tests with 95% EtOH) to detect unknown or unexpected substances commonly associated with post-consumer streams.
• AMES testing is unknown substances above the threshold are found, to confirm that these are not any CMR type of chemicals.

This dual strategy enables a science‑based, risk‑focused evaluation of PCR materials.

From Resins to Finished Packaging Components

Safety assessment should not stop at the resin level alone. Conversion processes, additives, and packaging design all influence final exposure.

Norner offers testing on:

• PCR resins and compounds
• Converted components with PCR (e.g. bottles, closures, films)
• Comparative assessments between PCR pellets and components with PCR
• Comparative assessments between virgin and recycled solutions

Norner can provide thorough risk assessment services for any substances exceeding regulatory thresholds.

This allows customers to qualify PCR in the context of real packaging systems, fully aligned with the CosPaTox philosophy.

One Technical Partner for PCR Qualification

By combining polymer expertise, analytical testing, and application knowledge, Norner supports customers from early PCR screening through to CosPaTox‑aligned data packages that enable confident safety assessments.

Norner helps turn PCR ambition into safe, qualified packaging solutions - supporting both sustainability goals and market readiness.

Contact us to discuss PCR safety assessment and qualification for your home or personal care applications.