Chemicals play a vital role in modern society, despite many having properties that can harm both people and the environment. Robust, coordinated assessments of chemicals are therefore essential.  

The ‘one substance, one assessment’ (OSOA) laws, which entered into force on 1 January 2026, will make chemical assessments more consistent, transparent and efficient across EU legislation, covering products such as toys, food, pesticides and biocides.

This new framework will also help identify risks earlier and allow faster regulatory action when needed, strengthening the protection of the environment and human health.

At the core of this package is a new common data platform on chemicals, due to be operational within the next three years. Accessible to everyone, this platform will serve as a central hub, bringing together chemical data collected under various EU laws.