Canadian authorities introduce ban cosmetic animal testing

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
27 Jun 2023 20:27

After Bill C-47 was passed on June 22, amendments were introduced to the Food and Drugs Act (FDA).

White rabbits at a French meat farm huddle together in their cage. Rabbits are also a common animal used in cosmetic testing. (AFP)

Health Canada on Tuesday said that the Canadian government will implement a ban on all further cosmetic animal testing while continuing to ensure the health and safety of cosmetics consumers.

"Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health, announced that the Government of Canada has banned the cruel and unnecessary testing of cosmetic products on animals in Canada, representing a major step forward in supporting animal welfare by reducing our reliance on animal testing, while ensuring health and safety," Health Canada's statement said.

We made a promise in 2021, and we kept it.

Today, 🇨🇦 bans cosmetic testing on animals.

It was a collective effort, many thanks to @HSI_Canada, @CosAlliance, @CrueltyFreeIntl, @LushCosmetics and @TheBodyShopCA for your engagement in favour of progress and protecting animals. pic.twitter.com/IQ6ZclvOhy
— Jean-Yves Duclos (@jyduclos) June 27, 2023

As per the statement, after Bill C-47, Budget Implementation Act 2023, was passed on June 22, amendments were introduced to the Food and Drugs Act (FDA).

By December 22, 2023, Canadian companies will no longer be allowed to carry out cosmetic testing on animals or sell products that rely on such tests.

Several other countries have also adopted such measures, including all EU member states, Australia, the UK, and South Korea.

The statement further notes that Health Canada is committed to pursuing its engagement with the international scientific and regulatory community to develop and validate alternatives to animal testing.