Recital 15

(15)In accordance with Directive 2010/63/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council ⁹ , it is necessary to replace, reduce or refine testing on animals, with a view to phasing out the use of animals for testing as soon as possible. The placing on the market of detergents and surfactants which have been the subject of animal testing in order to meet the requirements of this Regulation should therefore generally be prohibited while nevertheless allowing for the use of historic data. The Commission should provide for a derogation, where appropriate, to ensure a high degree of protection of human health and the environment, and should communicate any such decision granting a derogation to Member States and relevant economic operators.