TU-001
General
European Union
EU REACH Candidate List adds n-hexane and Bisphenol AF
ECHA added two substances to the REACH Candidate List of substances of very high concern on 4 February 2026. The list now has 253 entries.
What changed
On 4 February 2026 the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) added two entries to the Candidate List of substances of very high concern (SVHCs). The list now holds 253 entries.
n-hexane (EC 203-777-6, CAS 110-54-3) was added because it can harm organs after repeated exposure.
Bisphenol AF and its salts (EC 216-036-7, CAS 1478-61-1) were added because they are toxic for reproduction.
Who it affects
Companies that make, import or sell articles in the EU, such as clothing, footwear, toys and other consumer goods. Suppliers outside the EU are affected through their EU customers.
If an article contains a Candidate List substance above 0.1% by weight, the supplier must give customers enough information to use it safely (REACH Article 33). A consumer can ask for the same information, and the supplier must reply within 45 days.
Key dates
4 February 2026: both entries added to the Candidate List. The duty to share information under Article 33 applies from this date.
4 August 2026: six months after inclusion. EU producers and importers must notify ECHA when an article holds the substance above 0.1% by weight and above one tonne a year (REACH Article 7(2)).
What to test
Check your bill of materials and supplier declarations against the updated Candidate List.
Where a material could contain either substance, screen the article for SVHCs against the current list before you ship to the EU.
Sources
ECHA, Candidate List of substances of very high concern for authorisation, echa.europa.eu/candidate-list-table (read 9 October 2026). ECHA decision D(2025)7771-DC.
Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH), Articles 7(2) and 33.