As the debate on animal testing has returned to the forefront in Europe, with a request from the ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) for animal testing results for ingredients used exclusively in cosmetics, and in reaction, The European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) entitled “Save cruelty-free cosmetics - Commit to a Europe without animal testing”, launched by animal rights groups, Cosmetics Europe, the European cosmetics industry association, has just reiterated its full support for the ban in the Cosmetics Regulation emphasizing that alternative methods are the only way forward.
Cosmetics Europe Statement
The introduction of the full ban on animal testing for cosmetics in the EU in 2013 was unquestionably a pivotal milestone for animal welfare. Today, when the discussion on animal testing is high on the European agenda again, Cosmetics Europe emphasises its full support for the ban under the EU Cosmetic Products Regulation.
We value all initiatives aimed at promoting animal-free testing and welcome the fact that the European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Save cruelty-free cosmetics - Commit to a Europe without animal testing’ raises important questions. The interface between the EU Cosmetic Products Regulation and the REACH chemicals regulation, which permits the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), in certain circumstances, to request animal testing data for cosmetic ingredients, has posed challenges which are ongoing. Cosmetics Europe urges ECHA to ensure an ethical and responsible approach and always consider the use of non-animal testing methods.
The cosmetics and personal care industry has been at the forefront of developing alternatives to animal testing for regulatory safety assessment for more than 30 years. Science, research and innovation have been key drivers for maintaining the industry’s leading role in the field. We have shown strong, sustained commitment—and made significant investment—to build on scientific …
