FDA to Put Small Cosmetic Companies Out of Business
Apparently there is a draft of a new bill from the FDA to regulate all food, drug, and cosmetic companies under its jurisdiction by requiring them to register themselves with the FDA. Thankfully, it is the job of the FDA to protect us from unsafe consumer goods and drugs. As with all government registration programs, however, this is not free. Fees would range from $2000-$12,000. While this might be inconsequential to the big cosmetic companies, it would be devastating to the smaller businesses who create chemical-free and healthy, organic soaps and makeup. It would also create a financial burden to the importers of such products. This, in particular, concerns me because I am a big fan of Sensatia, a brand which I proudly carry on my website and use in my home. The legislation is not perfectly clear to me but it sounds like retailers would also have to register and pay the FDA to continue selling Sensatia and other imported soaps. Ultimately, everyone’s choices in cosmetics would be reduced by this bill as small businesses close their doors.
This is an outrageous bill which seems designed to keep big cosmetic companies strong while killing small businesses. The FDA Globalization Act of 2008 clearly states that it is a moneymaker for the FDA. Under the pretenses of protecting citizens from harmful products, it is ironically putting people in harm’s way by assuring that the majority of cosmetics available to the public are, in fact, only those made with cheaper, toxic ingredients.
If you want to learn more about the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 please visit the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, or the Indie Business Blog to add your voice to the petition.