New Zealand Welcomes Ban on Cosmetic Animal Testing

A more humane practice is underway!  The New Zealand government recently introduced and approved a bill that would ban the cruel cosmetic animal testing on animals. The Animal Welfare Bill prohibits the use of animals to test finished products and ingredients on cosmetics. 

Animals, such as mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs among many more are commonly used in cosmetic testing for as long as cosmetic testing started. Animals are often exposed to irritant products that are rubbed on their skins, instilled in their eyes or introduced into their bodies.



The availability of more advanced alternative methods for cosmetic testing challenged the long standing status quo of animal use in laboratories. 

New Zealand Prime Minister Nathan Guy welcomed the proposed ban.

“The Government has decided to introduce an alternative to the original SOP introduced by Green MP Mojo Mathers because of concerns the wording may have been too broad. This could lead to unintended consequences such as banning testing on ingredients in medicines that New Zealanders depend on.

“I want to thank Mojo Mathers for her work on this issue. Although the Government has introduced slightly alternative wording, this amendment still captures the principle of her SOP.

“It’s important to note we already have a strong framework for any animal testing done in New Zealand. Any testing for products like medicines has to be approved by an independent ethics committee and has to show the benefits will outweigh any harm caused.”

-Nathan Guy, NZ Prime Minister

Phasing out animal testing for cosmetics still has a long way to go. Nevertheless, New Zealand's strong opposition to this creates a remarkable positive standards that would hopefully influence the rest of the world.

 

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