Age policy: why we ask for 21 or over
We supply buyers aged 21 or over only. That is our own threshold, not a statutory minimum for research material — below is why we hold it anyway and how it works in practice.
Why 21 and not 18
There is no general statutory age limit on buying laboratory and research material. The 21 threshold is our policy, not an obligation we are passing on.
The reason is what the range is: compounds intended for research only, for which no framework of human use exists. A threshold above the legal minimum narrows the chance of material ending up outside the context it is supplied for. See also legality per country.
How it works when you order
On your first visit the site asks you to confirm your age, and by placing an order you declare, under article 3 of the terms and conditions, that you are 21 or over and will use the material for legitimate research only.
We also reserve the right to refuse an order or ask for further information where the intended use is unclear. That is not a formality: it is the only point at which we can actually intervene.
What we do not ask for
We do not ask for a copy of your identity document and we do not store a date of birth. That would process more personal data than the purpose needs, which is exactly what the GDPR argues against.
The flip side is that the age threshold rests on a declaration rather than a check: we cannot verify who clicks the confirmation. We would rather say that out loud than imply a watertight verification. Which data we do process is in the privacy statement; to file a request, use GDPR request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to upload an identity document?
No. We do not ask for a copy of an identity document and do not keep a date of birth. The threshold rests on the confirmation at your first visit and on the declaration you make when ordering, under the terms and conditions.
What if I am under 21?
Then we do not supply you. That holds regardless of the research purpose or the context you would use the material in, and regardless of whether the law in your country sets a lower limit.
Does 21+ also apply to a business order?
Yes, for the person placing the order. With an organisation we also look at the intended use: we may ask for further information if the order does not fit a research context.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. For laboratory and research purposes only. Not for human or animal consumption; not a medicine and does not constitute medical advice.