ECHA-Compliant Biodegradable Microencapsulation Without Compromising Performance
Consumers and regulators are raising the bar for what “clean” really means in personal care, home care, and beyond.
In Europe, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is driving a major shift with its microplastics restriction, requiring brands to remove non-biodegradable microplastics from their products. At the same time, consumers are seeking biodegradable, plant-based, vegan-friendly solutions — without sacrificing performance, stability, or sensory experience.
At Spray-Tek, we’re proving you don’t have to choose between compliance and capability. Our patented microencapsulation technology delivers ECHA-compliant, biodegradable, and vegan-suitable solutions with broad fragrance and active compatibility — so your brand can meet tomorrow’s standards today.
The ECHA Microplastics Restriction — What It Means for Your Brand
The ban applies to both leave-on and rinse-off products that contain intentionally added microplastics.
Under ECHA’s definition, microplastics are solid, non-biodegradable, water-insoluble polymers smaller than 5mm. This goes far beyond glitter and beads — it also covers encapsulated ingredients that use non-biodegradable polymers in their delivery systems.
To be considered microplastic-free, materials must demonstrate biodegradability that meets EU/OECD criteria. This scientific benchmark is the only way to ensure a delivery system is legally compliant under the new law.
Timelines for compliance vary by category, but the shift toward biodegradable delivery systems is already reshaping innovation pipelines.
Why Compliance Isn’t Enough — Performance Still Matters
Here’s the tricky part: You can’t just remove microplastics; you must maintain stability, sensory quality, and release control.
In fragrance applications — especially laundry and personal care — performance is measured by:
- Longevity — scent that lasts from wash to wear
- Controlled release — activation by touch, friction, or moisture
- Active protection — safeguarding ingredients during storage and use
Without the right encapsulation technology, removing traditional polymers can weaken fragrance strength, reduce stability, and compromise the overall product experience.
Spray-Tek’s Biodegradable & Vegan-Suitable Microencapsulation
Our patented microencapsulation systems use biodegradable wall materials that meet the EU/OECD criteria required to qualify as microplastic-free under the ECHA microplastics restriction. This ensures not only consumer-friendly sustainability claims, but also documented compliance with the latest European environmental regulations.
Additional benefits:
- Vegan-suitable — free from animal-derived materials
- Broad fragrance & active compatibility — Compatible with over 1,300 fragrance raw materials (giving the perfumer an enormous palete from which to create)
- Flexible across industries — fragrance, personal care, home care, nutraceuticals, and more
Broad Fragrance & Active Compatibility — Why It’s a Game Changer
Many “compliant” encapsulation systems struggle with certain fragrance types — such as high-volatile, gourmand, or reactive compositions. Our platform is engineered to encapsulate them effectively, without leakage or degradation.
Our platform supports:
- High-volatile citrus notes without leakage
- Delicate floral accords
- Complex functional actives (e.g., odor neutralizers, antimicrobial agents)
It also maintains stability in both dry and aqueous systems, enabling versatile application from laundry detergents to fine fragrances.
The Sustainability + Performance Equation
- Compliance ensures you meet regulations.
- Sustainability ensures you meet consumer expectations.
- Performance ensures your product stands out in market.
Spray-Tek delivers all three — without trade-offs.
Formulate for the Future
Meeting ECHA’s microplastics restriction doesn’t have to mean compromising your product experience. With Spray-Tek’s ECHA-compliant, biodegradable, vegan-suitable microencapsulation technology, you can deliver the same — or better — fragrance performance while staying ahead of global regulatory change.
📩 Let’s discuss how we can support your next clean, compliant, and high-performing launch. Contact Us today!