What is a Product Information File? [PIF]
The Product Information File (PIF) is a requirement under the Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Union.
This regulation applies to all member states of the EU.
The PIF demonstrates the safety of a cosmetic product for reasonably foreseeable use and must be in place before placing a cosmetic product on the market.
FAQ
What is a PIF?
A PIF is a cosmetic product dossier that contains all the important information about the finished product, including the ingredients used, packaging, manufacturing process, and product labelling. The PIF also records product characteristics, evidence to support claims and the Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR).
Is a PIF Mandatory?
Yes, a PIF is a mandatory requirement for placing a cosmetic product on the market in the European Union. The responsible person (RP) must keep the PIF for ten years after placing the last batch of it on the market.
Is PIF needed only in the EU Market?
Post-Brexit, a PIF is a mandatory requirement in both the EU and the UK territories. The USA had a Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program, which needed a document similar to the PIF. With the incoming MoCRA, these requirements are changing. Click here to read about USA requirements.
What should be included in a PIF?
A PIF should include - Product description, Manufacturing process, Safety assessment, Efficacy assessment, Packaging information, Labelling information, Ingredient list, Stability data, Microbiological data, Analytical data, and Toxicological data.
What happens if I don't have a PIF?
In simple words, a PIF is a mandatory file of technical data needed to sell cosmetic products in the EU and UK. The information from the PIF is used to notify cosmetic products on the EU Cosmetic Products Notification Portal (CPNP) and the UK Submit Cosmetic Product Notifications (SCPN) Portal. The Authorities can demand to see a PIF at any time. If a PIF is not available for review, it is illegal to have product on the EU/UK market and therefore, a product recall will be required.
Where can I get a PIF for cosmetic products?
If you are reading this answer, then you have reached the right spot! Experts at Crème de la Crème have 20+ years of experience in creating PIFs for multiple regions. We can provide you with end-to-end regulatory and authorisation support for any market in the World. Contact our experts by sending an email - creme@creme.uk.com