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COSMOS / ECOCERT
NGO
InternationalEst. 2010
Regulator Facts
COSMOS / ECOCERT
NGO
International · Est. 2010

COSMOS (COSMetic Organic and Natural Standard) harmonizes five European organic/natural cosmetics standards (BDIH, Cosmébio, ECOCERT, ICEA, and Soil Association). COSMOS ORGANIC requires a minimum of 95% physically processed natural ingredients and at least 20% organic ingredients (10% for rinse-off products). COSMOS NATURAL has no organic minimum but restricts petrochemicals, silicones, synthetic fragrances, and GMOs. ECOCERT serves as the primary certification body, auditing brands against the COSMOS standard.

Jurisdiction
International
Founded
2010
Funded By
Certification audit and licensing fees
The Other Side
The COSMOS standard is considered the gold standard for organic cosmetics certification globally. Critics note the complexity of its dual-tier system (ORGANIC vs. NATURAL) can confuse consumers. Some brands argue the audit and compliance costs are high, particularly for small producers. The standard permits certain processed natural ingredients that purists may question. Nonetheless, a COSMOS seal is widely recognized and respected in the EU market.
Parent Organization

Funded by certification fees from brands seeking the seal