Author: Admin

Proposed EU hazard classification for silver chloride highlights need for safer anti-odor and antibacterial alternatives

A new EU proposal could lead to much stricter hazard classifications for silver chloride. The Harmonised Classification and Labelling (CLH) proposal raises concerns about the effects of silver chloride on both human health and the environment.

Silver chloride is widely used in textile products for its antimicrobial properties. If the proposed EU classification is adopted, it could change how the substance is regulated and may lead to tighter controls on its use under EU biocidal rules.

The CLH proposal is available here: CLH Report for Silver Chloride. It indicates that silver chloride may pose serious human health hazards, including reproductive toxicity, potential carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and skin sensitization.

A strong signal for the textile sector

The proposal reflects a broader trend in EU chemical regulation. Widely dispersed substances that are intrinsically hazardous are facing closer scrutiny, especially those that pose a risk to the environment and ecosystems.

This is particularly relevant for silver-based technologies given their “mode of action” – releasing silver ions, which are known to be highly toxic to aquatic life. In the case of silver chloride, the CLH report uses a grouping approach based on the toxicity of silver ion (Ag⁺). This could influence how other silver compounds are assessed in future.

A shift toward safer alternatives

Against this backdrop, many companies are looking for safer anti-odor and antibacterial solutions with lower environmental and regulatory risk.

At NORDShield, we offer next-generation alternatives designed to reduce these risks. Our NORDShield CITEX technology is based on citric acid and offers:
The proposed classification of silver chloride shows the direction in which EU chemical policy is heading. Potentially hazardous substances are coming under more scrutiny and companies that move early toward safer alternatives may be better placed to adapt.

NORDShield continues to support the textile industry with technologies designed for performance, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

The proposed classification of silver chloride shows the direction in which EU chemical policy is heading. Potentially hazardous substances are coming under more scrutiny and companies that move early toward safer alternatives may be better placed to adapt.

NORDShield continues to support the textile industry with technologies designed for performance, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

• effective anti-odor performance through antibacterial action
• no heavy metals
  

Citric acid holds far fewer risks compared to silver chloride, as shown in the published CLH proposal. This helps textile manufacturers and brands:

• reduce exposure to regulatory volatility
• future-proof product portfolios
• support sustainability and chemical safety goals

Looking ahead

The proposed classification of silver chloride shows the direction in which EU chemical policy is heading. Potentially hazardous substances are coming under more scrutiny and companies that move early toward safer alternatives may be better placed to adapt.

NORDShield continues to support the textile industry with technologies designed for performance, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

Traditional Craftsmanship Meets Innovation: Kamakura Shirts x NordShield

We’re incredibly excited to announce our new collaboration with Kamakura Shirts, a renowned Japanese shirtmaker celebrated for their precisely crafted shirts that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern style.

NordShield’s groundbreaking plant-based technology brings a fresh dimension to this partnership, offering long-lasting freshness while being gentle on the skin and the environment. This innovative approach perfectly complements Kamakura’s commitment to quality, timeless elegance, and durability, creating a unique match between tradition and sustainability.

This partnership would not be possible without our trusted partner in Japan, Sinanen Zeomic, who share our vision for sustainable innovation. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of sustainable clothing that blends tradition with modern science.

What does it take to thrive in a rapidly evolving textile industry?

After his first months as CCO at NordShield, Allan Andersen has been reflecting on how innovation and sustainability are reshaping the future of textiles. Here are his top 3 insights:

– Beyond functionality: Our products tackle societal concerns such as health, sustainability, and quality of life – not just functional needs.
– Partnerships matter: Building trust and fostering long-term relationships is key to driving success.
– Innovation is holistic: Innovation isn’t just about products – it’s about building relationships and collaborating for lasting impact.

We’re thrilled to share that NordShield Crisp®, BioLayr®, and CiTex® have officially earned bluesign® APPROVED certification! For us, this is more than a milestone – it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to transforming the textile industry for the better.

What does the bluesign® approval mean for our partners and customers?

– Sustainability: No banned substances, optimized resource usage, and minimal environmental impact.
– Safety: Our products are certified to meet global safety standards for both consumers and workers.
– Performance: High-performance products that don’t compromise on quality or eco-conscious values.

This is the future of textile protection – and we’re leading the way.

We don’t just say we revolutionize textile protection. We prove it.

Thrilled to announce our groundbreaking BioLayr® technology has won the Scandinavian Outdoor Group (SOG) Innovation Award! Recognized for its antimicrobial capabilities, our sustainable technology keeps fabrics odor-free, without harmful biocides. This is what we call challenging the norms of textile protection.

The jury’s full verdict? Check it out: https://lnkd.in/dbWw94DN

We’re excited to introduce Allan Andersen, our newly appointed CCO.

With over 20+ years of textile industry experience at Under Armour and Adidas, Allan brings a wealth of knowledge to oversee our global sales. His deep expertise in business development and international sales will be invaluable in helping our partners achieve their goals.

NordShield is thrilled to be a part of ISPO Award winning innovation 

The Women Tech Shell jacket by Bosideng has won the 2024 ISPO Award, which recognizes innovative sports products and services. This high-performance jacket not only conquers the elements, but also features a pocket treated with NordShield CiTex®, our bio-based antibacterial technology. Allowing for hygienic storage of feminine hygiene products, this feature provides added piece of mind for women on the go.

A huge congrats to BOSIDENG – let’s continue pushing the boundaries in the world of textiles.

NordShield’s product offering has gained increased traction following the European Commission’s strict restrictions on the use of Silver Zinc Zeolite in textiles, including clothing and other apparel, as outlined in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2635. NordShield’s products are entirely silver-free and do not contain Silver Zinc Zeolite.

While allowing certain uses, the European Commission has identified unacceptable risks associated with skin contact with Silver Zinc Zeolite. As a result, its use will be banned from March 1, 2026, in all cases where treated textiles may come into contact with the skin, be exposed to sweat, or be placed in children’s mouths.

The use of Silver Zinc Zeolite in outdoor clothing will also be banned due to the risks associated with exposure to rain.

The key findings behind the restriction highlighted the unacceptable risks to human health and environmental concerns associated with Silver Zinc Zeolite, as outlined in the Competent Authority Report. This decision is in NordShield´s view expected to pave the way for further bans and restrictions on other toxic heavy metals.

According to the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2635, the placing on the market of Silver Zinc Zeolite treated articles will be banned, if the article:

·         may come into contact with human skin, including indirectly via body fluids

·         may be handled under wet conditions

·         may be mouthed by children under the age of 2 years

·         may be used outdoors

NordShield’s sustainable range of antimicrobial and anti-odor textile treatment solutions is plant-based. NordShield does not use any form of silver or Silver Zinc Zeolite in its products.

 

NordShield, a global supplier of plant-based textile treatment solutions, proudly announces that it is the first chemical supplier in Finland to become the bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER. This recognition underscores NordShield’s pioneering role in sustainability, safety, and environmental responsibility within the textile industry.

 bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNERS are responsibly acting parties of the textile value chain committed to applying the bluesign® SYSTEM. They aim to continuously improve their environmental performance and are focused on a sustainable future.

 The bluesign® SYSTEM is the solution for sustainable textile production. It eliminates harmful substances right from the start of the manufacturing process, and it sets and controls standards for environmentally friendly and safe production. This not only ensures that the final textile product meets very stringent consumer safety requirements worldwide but also gives consumers confidence in purchasing less harmful products.

 This status will further enhance NordShield’s ability to collaborate with leading global brands and manufacturers who share the vision of a more sustainable future. It also reinforces NordShield’s position as an industry leader in providing biobased, effective, and sustainable textile treatment solutions.

 About NordShield

Nordic Biotech Group, established in 2016, is dedicated to providing innovative, sustainable solutions, replacing non-renewable ingredients and heavy metals in antimicrobial and anti-odor textile treatment products. NordShield leverages Finnish research to enhance textile performance, user experience, and shift towards responsible, scalable protection. Our vision promotes sustainable, toxic-free ingredients in textile treatments, offering a unique plant-based alternative. As pioneers, we redefine textile protection standards, fostering a green transition and lasting impact through partnerships with responsible consumer brands and textile mills.

For more information about NordShield and its commitment to sustainability, please visit www.nordshield.com. For more information on bluesign®, please visit www.bluesign.com.