By Stephanie Edwards
Whether you're shopping for loved ones on your list or buying yourself a little treat this holiday season, remember the animals who are used in testing products. Many cosmetics and household goods are tested on rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and mice, even though it is not required.
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Looks Can Kill |
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It's easy to make compassionate choices when shopping for beauty products. Consult the CCIC shopping guide, or just look for the Leaping Bunny logo. |
Many companies claim their products are cruelty-free. However, what most consumers don’t know is that although the final product may not have been tested on animals, the ingredients could have been. There is no government agency that regulates cruelty-free claims; however the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics has stepped in to answer the question: "How do I really know this product was not tested on animals?"
This coalition is made up of several animal protection groups, including The HSUS, that joined together to verify that companies claiming to be animal-friendly abide by the Corporate Standard of Compassion for Animals. The standards specify that no testing is done on animals at any point of production, starting the day a company signs the pledge.
Consult the CCIC shopping guide to ensure that your holiday is beautiful and cruelty-free!
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Cruelty-Free Items to Add to Your Shopping List* |
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Sister Suzi: Mango strawberry lip balm
Granny: Lavender-scented bubble bath
Aunt Bess: Under eye-cream & shea butter lotion
Mom: Creamy facial wash
Fido: Doggie bath
Cousin Ann: Loofah & facial kit
Uncle Bob: Vanilla air fresheners
Aunt Fran: Mascara & blush
Dad: Dish soap & all purpose cleaner
Brother Bob: Paper towels
*These and other items approved by CCIA can be found in the coalition's guide. Download a PDF version or write to the CCIC for a pocket-size pamphlet. |
Stephanie Edwards is the outreach coordinator for the Animal Research Issues section of The HSUS.