Animal-Tested Cosmetic Ingredients In The EU: One Big Question Remains

27 Jul 2017

As of July 21, regulatory and legal authorities in the EU have clarified that cosmetic ingredients tested on animals to meet third-country requirements do not necessarily trigger the Cosmetic Regulation's animal-testing ban, and that animal testing on cosmetic ingredients may be needed under REACH for various specified reasons. A final important question may be left to the courts.

A July 21 decision from the European ombudsman validates the position taken by the European Commission and European Chemicals Agency that cosmetic ingredients may be subject to required animal testing under REACH, notwithstanding bans enshrined in the Cosmetics Regulation.

On the coattails of a key court decision last year, the development further insulates companies against allegations of wrongdoing when...