EU bans animal-tested cosmetics

Today marks a milestone for animal welfare, with the sale of cosmetics tested on animals now completely forbidden across the European Union. The ban includes cosmetics in the broadest sense, including shampoo, soap, makeup, deodorant, perfume, shaving cream, etc. The ban on animal-tested cosmetics is good news for animal rights organisation GAIA which spent the last 20 years lobbying for the ban. European Commissioner for Health Affairs Tonio Borg said the measure sends an "important signal" to the cosmetic industry on animal welfare. "Europe can now set an example for responsible innovation in cosmetics without compromising the safety of consumers."