The Gap Behind the “Hypoallergenic” Label

No mandatory testing for cleaning products—what does this mean?

When shoppers see the words “hypoallergenic” or “anti-allergenic” on a cleaning product, most feel reassured. But in reality, there is no mandatory testing or oversight behind these claims. In many cases, they are little more than marketing strategies.

Experts warn that, in an era of rising allergies and sensitivities, this regulatory gap poses a

serious public health risk.

Why Isn’t Testing Mandatory?

Regulatory Gap

•  In both the EU and the U.S., “hypoallergenic” or “anti-allergenic” have no legal

  definition.

•  Manufacturers can use the terms without independent

EWG – Cleaning Products FAQ

Cost and Industry Resistance

•  Clinical allergy testing is expensive, requiring human skin or respiratory trials.

•  Companies often skip them under the logic: “if it’s not mandatory, why do it?"

Hidden Ingredients

•  Labels often use umbrella terms like “fragrance/parfum,” which can hide dozens of

chemicals.

•  Some may be allergens or irritants, making it impossible for consumers to know what’s

inside.

EWG – Cleaning Products FAQ

Lack of Oversight

•  Independent certification programs exist, such as the Asthma & Allergy Friendly label.

•  But participation is voluntary. Companies can still freely use “hypoallergenic” without

joining.

AAFA – Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certification Program

What Would Change if Testing Were Mandatory?

•  Better protection for consumers. Children, asthma patients, and allergy sufferers could

choose more safely.

•  Increased transparency. “Hypoallergenic” would mean a real, tested claim—not just

marketing.

•  Greater brand trust. Companies passing independent tests would stand out.

•  Lower long-term health costs. Preventing chronic allergies, asthma attacks, and skin

reactions would reduce healthcare burdens.

Scientific Perspectives

•  IAIR Institute stresses that anti-allergen claims must be backed by robust, repeatable

test protocols. Without them, current claims are “incomplete and misleading.”

IAIR Institute – Testing Methods

•  AAFA confirms that only certified products go through independent testing, while most

on the market do not.

AAFA – Certification Program

•  EWG warns consumers not to rely on unregulated labels like “hypoallergenic,” but

instead to read full ingredient lists and check independent certifications.

EWG – Cleaning Products FAQ

What Can Consumers Do?

1. Read labels carefully. Terms like “fragrance/parfum” hide risk.

2. Look for independent certifications. Programs like Asthma & Allergy Friendly offer

tested assurance.

3. Prefer fragrance-free products. Fragrance is a common allergen trigger.

4. Be extra cautious in households with children. Babies and young kids are far more

sensitive.

Conclusion

The fact that “hypoallergenic” labels are not legally required to be tested is shocking—but true. Unless regulations change, allergic children and asthma patients will remain unnecessarily exposed.

Protecting public health starts with the simplest step: ensuring that what’s written on the label is backed by science.

For cleaning products, mandatory allergy testing is no longer optional—it is a necessity.