HANA MUŠINOVIĆ
International Association of Natural and Organic Cosmetics (NATRUE), Brussels, Belgium

Abstract

Biotechnology involves the use of living systems such as plants or microorganisms to develop or make products. Humans have been optimising biological reactions such as fermentation using yeast for centuries to make food and drinks such as wines, beers or yogurt. Nowadays, modern biotechnology has allowed for the production of speciality substances such as supplements, pharmaceutical products or bio-fuels; many of which result from fermentation processes. Over the last two decades there has been increased investment in biotechnology to substitute petrochemical methods on the market. Cosmetic companies can now increasingly consider the vast opportunities the biotechnology can offer for more natural ingredients whilst meeting consumer expectations on functionality.

Over the past decade the natural and organic cosmetic sector has demonstrated a clear market growth despite increasing competition. Drivers for consumers favouring ‘green beauty’ can include conscious decisions related to health concerns leading to ingredients avoidance, environmental impact or ethical concerns related to ingredients sourcing.

Natural and organic cosmetics authenticity lies in severely restrict petrochemical use to only specific functions in the short-term, with a clear emphasis on eliminating their dependence altogether in the long-term. To this end, we see more political initiatives encouraging a move away from petrochemical sourcing to renewable alternatives.

Over the last two decades there has been increase investment in biotechnology to substitute petrochemical methods on the market. For cosmetic companies they can now increasingly consider the vast opportunities the biotechnology can offer whilst meeting consumer expectations.

A DEVELOPING TOOL

Biotechnology involves the use of living systems such as plants or microorganisms to develop or make products. Humans have been optimising biologi ...