January 8, 2013

A new Israeli law has made animal welfare a top priority by officially banning the import, marketing and sale of any toiletries, detergents or cosmetics whose manufacturing process involves animal testing. The new regulations took effect January 1, 2013.

“Animal testing in the Cosmetics Industry inflicts horrific suffering on these animals. Each product requires between 2,000-3,000 tests, and animals die in agony,” said MK Eitan Cabel.

In 2007, Israel banned animal testing for cosmetics and other products. This new law focuses on products that are imported from other countries.

“The end of animal testing for cosmetics has come a step closer today,” Troy Seidle, director of research & toxicology for Humane Society International, told Care2. “Whilst we commend Israel for taking this truly historic action, strict enforcement of the law alongside active assistance from cosmetic companies, will now be vital.”

The new law makes certain exceptions for items produced for medicinal products and follows the guidelines set by the European Union.

Cabel said that the law represents “a true revolution in animal welfare in Israel.”

Read more: