Cetrimonium Chloride
Cetrimonium chloride is a cosmetic ingredient (rinse-off conditioning agent) and not a permitted food additive. Cosmetic Ingredient Review and EU SCCS deem it safe in rinse-off products at limited concentrations; it is irritating to eyes and skin at higher concentrations.
What it is
Quaternary ammonium compound (cetyltrimethylammonium chloride); cationic surfactant.
Not a food ingredient — used in cosmetics (hair conditioners) and as antimicrobial; appears in personal care products, not food.
Why it's flagged
- skin/eye irritant
- not a food additive
What regulators actually say
"Cetrimonium chloride is considered safe in rinse-off hair products up to 2.5%."
"Cetrimonium chloride is safe as used in rinse-off cosmetic products at concentrations up to 10%."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not approved as a food additive; permitted in cosmetics
European Union — EFSA
Not approved as food additive; cosmetic use under EU Cosmetics Regulation
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