EU Parliament hears citizens’ initiative on animal testing ban

To test the safety and efficacy of cosmetic products, animals such as rabbits, mice, rats and guinea pigs are often used. The animals are bred specifically for animal testing and spend their lives in laboratories. However, animal testing is not necessary to test the safety of cosmetic products! Animal-free tests are even much more reliable. Alternative testing methods include such things as in vitro testing, computer modeling, and working with human volunteers. These methods are often faster, less expensive and more ethical than animal testing. In addition, many companies in the cosmetics industry have taken voluntary initiatives to end the use of animal testing. Numerous brands mark their products with labels such as “animal-free”, “cruelty-free” or “vegan”.