OEKO-TEX® has announced significant updates to its testing criteria, limit values, and certification guidelines, effective April 1, 2025. These changes aim to bolster trust and sustainability within the textile and leather industries.
A key change is the updated approach to organic cotton. The OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification will no longer include “GMO-free” or “organic” claims for cotton. Instead, organic cotton certification will be managed through OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON, ensuring more reliable oversight and fraud prevention.
In response to health concerns, the limit for Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical found in textiles, has been reduced from 100mg/kg to 10mg/kg, aligning with its classification as an endocrine disruptor.
To comply with the European Deforestation Regulation, the Leather Standard will enforce stricter transparency for leather supply chains. Companies must trace the origins of leather products to ensure they do not contribute to deforestation, providing proof of origin for cattle and calf products.
The OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN label will now recognise OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON, alongside STANDARD 100 and LEATHER STANDARD, allowing companies to combine supply chain traceability with responsible production.
OEKO-TEX® STeP certificate holders can now participate in the ZDHC Supplier to Zero Programme, fostering collaboration to improve the environmental impact of the textile, apparel, footwear, and leather industries.
The ECO PASSPORT will expand to include commodity and maintenance chemicals, promoting earlier elimination of harmful substances, enhanced worker safety, and environmental protection. ECO PASSPORT customers can also highlight the biodegradability of their chemical products, a key factor in sustainable production.
These revisions reflect OEKO-TEX®’s commitment to promoting trust, transparency, and sustainability in the textile and leather industries. By staying ahead of global regulations and incorporating the latest scientific data, OEKO-TEX® aims to ensure consistent consumer protection and environmentally responsible practices. These changes mark a significant step towards a more sustainable and trustworthy industry, setting higher standards for environmental and social responsibility.
