saferchoice

Safer Choice is a certification program run by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It certifies consumer and institutional products that meet the Safer Choice Standard for safer ingredients and lower hazard potential. The program aims to help shoppers identify safer products and encourage safer formulations. It originated as the Design for the Environment (DfE) program and was rebranded to Safer Choice.

Manufacturers submit product formulations for EPA review. EPA scientists assess each ingredient against hazard-based criteria for human health and the environment, considering exposure potential and data gaps. If all ingredients meet the standard and the product meets performance and labeling requirements, it may bear the Safer Choice label. The label signals safer ingredients relative to many conventional products, but it does not guarantee zero risk.

Criteria: Ingredient screening targets hazardous substances, including carcinogens, reproductive toxins, and persistent or bioaccumulative chemicals. The program favors readily biodegradable ingredients and lower overall hazard, and also considers formulation, packaging, and labeling to support safe use and performance.

Scope and impact: The program covers a range of household cleaners, detergents, and dishwashing products, among others. A growing number of products across categories have earned the Safer Choice label, helping shift market demand toward safer formulations.

Limitations: Certification relies on available hazard data and may be affected by data gaps or formulation changes. The label reflects safety at certification time and does not imply zero risk.