The move, which aligns with EU chemical rules, was made after the European Chemicals Agency ruled in 2020 that some cosmetics ingredients needed to be tested on animals to ensure they were safe for workers manufacturing the ingredients
However, the High Court said on Friday that the government was acting legally, after a case was brought by animal rights activists.
Animal testing for makeup and its ingredients had been completely banned in the UK since 1998, except in cases where the benefits outweighed the animal suffering, such as for medicines. But since 2019, the government has been issuing licenses for animal testing of cosmetic ingredients in line with EU chemical rules, despite having left the EU in 2020.
The change in policy has been heavily criticised by major beauty and cosmetic brands, including Unilever, Body Shop, and Boots, as well as animal rights groups such as Cruelty Free International. More than 80 brands have expressed their dismay at the government’s new position.
Although manufacturers can now apply for licenses to undertake animal testing before production begins, they still cannot undertake any animal testing to check the safety of the makeup for consumers. The safety of makeup for consumers should be done using other methods.
Michelle Thew, CEO of Cruelty Free International, called the decision “outrageous” and said the government was prioritising the interests of contract-testing companies over those of animals and the wishes of the majority of British people who oppose cosmetics testing.
CFI said it would appeal the decision made by the court and ask the government to reinstate the complete ban in the UK. Meanwhile, Dr Julia Fentem, head of the safety and environmental assurance center at Unilever, said tests potentially required under the new policy were “unnecessary,” and that safety tests could be carried out without animal involvement.
A new chemicals strategy is expected to be published this year outlining the government’s position on the use and testing of chemicals in the UK, which may include further guidance to cosmetic companies.
