No more animal testing
The European cosmetics industry as a whole leads the field in humane treatment of animals
Animal testing has been prohibited in Europe since 11 September 2004 for cosmetic products and since 11 March 2009 for cosmetic ingredients. In March 2009, the sale and marketing of cosmetic products containing ingredients tested on animals also became illegal in European Union countries.
Although developing alternative methods is a very long and difficult process, the European cosmetics industry as a whole leads the field in humane treatment of animal test subjects. For decades, it has been the main driver of research into alternative testing methods, investing 80 million euros in recent years, and is currently at the forefront of studies of new standardised, effective and innovative research methods.
90% of the public agree strict standards are important
The European cosmetics industry continues to participate actively in the European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA), founded by the European Commission and several industries, and in Spain, Stanpa is part of the Spanish Network for the Development of Alternatives to Animal Testing (Red Española para el Desarrollo de Métodos Alternativos a la Experimentación Animal, or REMA).
Animal testing is not only of interest to regulators, it is also a cause for concern among the European population in general. According to the Eurobarometer, 90% of the public agree it is important to establish strict regulations, which are recognised around the world, and to promote greater awareness of the importance of animal welfare on an international level