The Australian consumer watchdog Choice has claimed that a number of major cosmetic companies are “misleading” consumers about their policies on animal testing.
Choice conducted an undercover investigation, which saw a number of mystery shoppers approach cosmetics counter sales staff. In certain stores, such as David Jones and Myer in Sydney, salespeople at the counters of major cosmetic brands were unaware of their company’s policies on animal testing as well as current Chinese legislation on animal testing. Among those that misled consumers were Dior, MAC and Lancôme, whose salespeople said their products were not tested on animals, when in fact they are. A salesperson for Clarins went as far as to say animal testing was illegal around the world.
The watchdog has also unearthed misrepresentation over animal testing policies on company websites and packaging. In order to sell products in China, where animal testing for cosmetics is legally required, a number of cosmetic companies have reverted to animal testing, after years of being cruelty-free. However, several have not informed the consumer of this change or updated their websites accordingly. A list of cosmetic companies being scrutinised by Choice is due to be sent to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, this week.
Following the investigation, Humane Society International (HSI) has urged companies to join forces with its global campaign Be Cruelty-Free, which works to end animal testing. Wendy Higgins, HSI’s Be Cruelty-Free Communications Director, said: “It doesn’t matter where in the world animal testing has taken place. If animals have suffered and died to test new lipsticks or face creams, products are not cruelty-free. Consumers want beauty without animal cruelty and companies owe it to their customers to listen, to go cruelty-free or at the very least to be honest when they fail to achieve that ethical standard. We urge brands to come clean on animal testing and to work alongside us to change laws in China and elsewhere.”
