Romania proposes draft law to modernize cosmetic product labeling via QR codes

Romania has introduced a draft law that aims to enable specific mandatory information to be delivered electronically via QR codes or equivalent electronic identifiers on cosmetic product packaging. 

Under the proposal amending Law no. 296/2004 on the Consumer Code, consumers will be able to access product details, such as ingredients and precautions for use, by scanning the QR code or electronic identifier.

“The legislative intervention aims to modernize the legal framework applicable to consumer information in the field of cosmetic products,” states the Legislative Council of Romania.

“It introduces the legal possibility that certain mandatory information may also be made available to the consumer by electronic means, such as a QR code or another equivalent, legible, and easily accessible electronic identifier applied to the container or packaging.”

Improving online access

According to the draft, the webpage linked to the code must provide the full required information in Romanian, with the option for additional languages. 

It must also ensure all data is up-to-date and accurate throughout the product’s marketing period and for at least 12 months after the last unit of the relevant batch has been placed on the market.

For situations where the QR code is temporarily inaccessible, the information must remain available on the website or through customer service channels.

Connected packaging is becoming increasingly prevalent, according to industry experts. QR code labels are reshaping brand-consumer interactions and enhancing tracking and transparency.

In a previous interview with Jenny Stanley, the managing director of Appetite Creative, she told Packaging Insights that AI-powered personalization is moving from experimental to expected, as QR code labels become increasingly important in the industry.