Comments on labelling related to the animal testing of cosmetic ingredients and products manufactured and/or marketed within the European Economic Community

By Balls, M.

The use of terms such as 'cruelty-free' and 'not tested on animals' in relation to cosmetic ingredients and products is reviewed. It is concluded that, such is the confusion that has been engendered by their misuse, legitimate concerns for both human and animal welfare are compromised, and unfair trading practices are in operation. It is proposed that such misleading terminology should be prohibited within the EEC, and that more effort should be put into the development, validation and regulatory acceptance of non-animal toxicity tests and testing strategies.