A new regulation coming into force this week will introduce stricter testing methods for the biodegradability of detergent surfactants. The new regulation will focus on testing the ultimate rather than the primary biodegradability of the surfactants, and will also improve protection of consumer health with regard to allergenic substances in detergents. Surfactants from washing powders can have a toxic effect on aquatic environments and impose a huge burden on wastewater treatment plants.