Across Europe the use of animals to test cosmetics is banned. But thousands of animals are once again at risk of suffering for cosmetics. Information we have uncovered shows that EU chemicals testing is taking place on substances used in cosmetics. The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) is arguing that it can request animal tests for ingredients that are used only or mainly in cosmetics. We disagree. The agency also claims that if animal tests are for worker rather than consumer safety then this sidesteps the EU bans, even if the tests are the same. We think this is wrong.

The EU animal cosmetics testing bans are ground-breaking and a beacon to the world. We are very angry and disappointed that chemicals testing is ignoring them. But you can rest assured we will do everything we can to stop these tests. We’re sure you feel the same way and will join us in fighting to protect the EU bans. We are urgently calling on cosmetics companies, decision-makers and supporters across Europe to join together in a campaign to fight the unlawful undermining of the bans.

Meanwhile the Leaping Bunny remains stronger than any testing bans anywhere in the world. It is the best assurance that a company is doing all it can to ensure its products and ingredients are cruelty free.

Dr Katy Taylor, Director of Science and Regulatory Affairs at Cruelty Free International, says: “We are extremely alarmed that the animal testing bans for cosmetics are being undermined in this way. We have no doubt that compassionate consumers who don’t want animals to suffer for the sake of their cosmetics, will be outraged. We call on cruelty free consumers and all cosmetics companies to join us in this important fight to save both the future of cruelty free cosmetics as well as the thousands of animals destined to a life of suffering in laboratories if this isn’t stopped.”

We need your help to stop this overREACH now and make sure the cosmetics testing bans are honoured. Please sign and share the petition to stop the overREACH and help save the thousands of animals who may once again suffer for cosmetics.