Chemical purity is no joke. It requires extensive testing and all conditions must be met in order for a proper purity grade to be earned.
Chemical purity is best defined as an untouched and unmixed substance. A chemical or product must achieve this before it is sold on the shelves of drugstores across the nation. This rating deems that the medication or product is safe for human use.
While many industries require chemical purity, there are some that the average consumer might be more familiar with. Here is a quick look into the main chemical manufacturers that utilize this idea to deliver safe and effective products.
Cosmetic Industry
When developing cosmetic products such as lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow, an FCC grade of chemical purity must be met in order for that product to be sold and distributed to the consumer. An FCC grade means that the overall quality of the product is considered safe for the interior and exterior of the human body. This is also the same grade of chemical purity given to a qualifying and safe food item.
Food Industry
In the interest of consumer safety, food and beverage products are highly regulated. Otherwise, any edible or drinkable product sold in grocery stores could potentially cause harm. A 'purified' grade means something is suitable enough for consumption. This grade is given to food items, as well as certain products in the medical field.
The Pharmaceutical Industry
In the pharmaceutical industry, a grade of United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or National Formulary (NF) must be met in order to be deemed safe to use. Examples of products that have met these standards include:
- Weight loss and dietary supplements
- Over-the-counter medicine
- Prescriptions for moderate to severe illnesses and diseases
Chemical purity and testing is required for these top three industries. Aside from meeting clean room standards and GMP quality controls, labs must develop pure and safe products for human use. These products serve a wide variety of people and in their day-to-day lives.
Assessing chemical purity is key in order for everyone on this planet to safely consume medication -- or wear their favorite shade of red lipstick. Chemical purity keeps us safe and is useful both inside and outside of the lab.