Global consumer products giant Unilever is demanding a worldwide ban on animal testing, as its largest personal care brand, Dove, gains PETA accreditation as cruelty-free. From 2019, all Dove products will feature the PETA cruelty-free logo on the packaging.

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of beauty and personal care products, with sales in over 190 countries and reaching 2.5 billion consumers a day, Unilever’s commitment to ending animal testing is monumental. To secure a global ban, Unilever plans to partner with worldwide animal protection agency, Humane Society International (HSI) and support its #BeCrueltyFree initiative.

PETA will now classify Unilever as a “company working for regulatory change,” acknowledging that the brand will not test on animals anywhere in the world unless specifically required by law.

In a statement, David Blanchard, Chief R&D Officer, noted that animal testing for cosmetics has been prohibited in the EU since 2013. He said, “We hope that a global adoption of a similar ban will accelerate the regulatory acceptance of alternative approaches and thereby remove any requirements for any animal testing for cosmetics anywhere in the world.”

Sophie Galvani, VP of Dove Global, explained that the brand has used non-animal methods to assess the safety of its products for over thirty years. She noted, “we are delighted to say that our products will now carry PETA’s cruelty-free logo to assure our customers that Dove does not, and will not, test on animals.” She also commented on the importance of transparency in product labeling, noting that “more than ever, people want, and deserve, clarity on what goes on in the marking and composition of the products they love.”

Galvani hopes that Dove’s official status as cruelty-free will inspire further action against animal testing in the personal care and beauty industry across the world.

Kathy Guillermo, PETA senior VP, agrees. “while there is still much to be done to end animal testing, we hope today’s announcement will inspire other beauty brands and companies to follow suit.” Guillermo added that PETA is “delighted” to be able to certify a globally recognized brand, such as Dove, cruelty-free.

Image credit: Unilever | Dove

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