Overview
- 60 Millions de consommateurs published lab tests of 20 products across five categories, assessing emissions against ANSES and indoor air observatory reference values.
- Incense produced the highest pollutant levels, with formaldehyde measured at 42–102 µg/m³ and notable microparticles and combustion gases exceeding recommended thresholds.
- Sprays showed very low levels of carcinogens overall, though two contained high terpene concentrations, and candles and diffusers were deemed less problematic but not harmless.
- The magazine calls for clear risk labeling, stricter emission limits for combustible fragrances, regulation of solvents from passive diffusers, and tighter control of claims such as “assainissant” or “purifiant.”
- France’s Health Ministry notes precautionary labeling has been mandatory since 2017 for combustible products, while non‑combustible options have no such requirement and should be used with ventilation and caution, especially for vulnerable groups.