UFI in chemical products: function and requirements

1. What is the UFI in chemical products?

2. Wich chemical products require a UFI?

3. When should the Unique Formula Identifier be updated?

4. What happens if the regulation is not followed?

5. How to generate the UFI code

6. Including the UFI in the CLP Label

The Unique Formula Identifier, known as the UFI code, is a mandatory element for hazardous chemical products as of 2025. The UFI is a 16-character alphanumeric sequence that precisely identifies the composition of a mixture, enabling a rapid and effective response in the event of poisoning or an accident.

Manufacturers, downstream users, and importers of hazardous mixtures within the European Economic Area (EEA) are required to generate the UFI and include it—generally—on the label of products classified with physical or health hazards. Additionally, these products must be notified to Poison Centres using the harmonized format.

If you want to know which products require updates and how to correctly generate the UFI in chemical products to comply with regulations, protect users, and safeguard your company, this article is for you. Keep reading!

What is the UFI in chemical products?

The UFI (Unique Formula Identifier) is a mandatory alphanumeric identifier on the labels of all hazardous mixtures that may pose risks to human health and/or physical safety. This 16-character code must be clearly visible on the product’s packaging.

The UFI code is essential for risk management and emergency response because it allows Poison Centres to immediately access detailed information about the mixture's composition in the event of poisoning or an accident.

To be valid, the mixture must have been previously notified to the relevant authorities with key information, including:

• Composition ranges (%) of the mixture

• Product trade name

• Product color and physical state

• Product pH

• Intended uses (EuPCs)

• End user type

• Packaging type and format

• Hazard classification

• Specific toxicological information

It is important to note that all products sharing the same UFI code must have exactly the same composition. If there is any variation in the formula, a new UFI code must be assigned in order to comply with current regulations.

Wich chemical products require a UFI?

The UFI must be included on the labels of all hazardous chemical mixtures marketed in the European Economic Area (EEA), as required under the CLP Regulation. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is responsible for overseeing this regulation.

It is worth noting that products not classified as hazardous, or classified only as environmentally hazardous, are not required to carry a UFI. However, companies may choose to include it voluntarily for traceability or in anticipation of possible future changes in classification.

In addition to generating the UFI code on the labels of their chemical products, suppliers must submit a complete notification to Poison Centres through the ECHA's PCN Portal – Poison Centres Notification.

When should the Unique Formula Identifier be updated?

Starting January 1, 2025, the use of the UFI on the labeling of hazardous mixtures is mandatory for all products marketed within the European Economic Area, without exception.

This means that all notifications must be updated in accordance with the harmonized format outlined in Annex VIII of the CLP Regulation.

When is a new identifier required?

The UFI code is directly linked to the exact composition of a mixture. Therefore, it is mandatory to generate a new UFI and submit a new notification in the following cases:

• If the composition of the mixture changes, whether due to the addition, removal, or change in the proportion of hazardous substances, as defined in Part 4 of Annex VIII.

• If a mixture is marketed under a new composition, even if the trade name or packaging remains unchanged.

What happens if the regulation is not followed?

Failure to meet these obligations may result in legal consequences. Possible outcomes include the withdrawal of products from the market and financial penalties. Generally, national authorities may carry out inspections and request evidence of submitted notifications.

How to generate the UFI code

To generate a valid UFI code, companies must follow the guidelines set by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This process ensures that each identifier is unique and linked to a specific hazardous mixture formula.

What you need to generate a UFI

To correctly create a UFI, you need two essential elements:

• The company’s VAT number (VAT ID)

• A formulation number: an internal code that uniquely represents the mixture’s composition

These two pieces of data must be entered into the ECHA’s official tool, the UFI Generator, introduced below. Another, more efficient option is to use software that automates the creation and management of compliance documentation for the chemical industry.

A good example is eQgest, as the software features a dedicated PCN Format module that automatically generates dossiers for notifying ECHA and speeds up UFI assignment for products. Learn more about the module!

What Is the UFI Generator?

The UFI Generator is a free online tool provided by ECHA that allows companies to quickly and securely create UFI codes. By entering the company’s VAT number and a formulation code, the system generates a unique, 16-character alphanumeric identifier, which must then be placed on the chemical product’s label.

This tool ensures that each UFI is unique and consistent, allowing for efficient traceability and facilitating medical response in case of emergencies.

Including the UFI in the CLP Label

According to the CLP Regulation, the UFI must be included on the labels of products classified as hazardous.

When correctly applied on the label, this code enables access to vital safety information, as the UFI links the product to the information previously submitted to Poison Centres.

To properly and safely manage the UFI and other key points of chemical product regulation, it is strongly recommended to use a specialized tool that simplifies the process.

Want to learn more about regulatory compliance like this? One of our consultants can introduce you to eQgest’s solutions, including its exclusive PCN Format module. Contact us today!