Understanding Animal Testing Logos | Cruelty Free 101

There are quite a few cruelty free logos and signs that we see on beauty products nowadays, but how do we know which ones we can trust and which ones we can’t?

There are three main logos that can be seen globally across a range of products. These include the logos of Leaping Bunny, Caring Consumer, and CCF (Choose Cruelty Free).

Leaping Bunny

The Leaping Bunny programme is run by the CCIC and BUAV, or Cruelty Free International. Cruelty Free International is the world’s leading organisation working to end animal experiments across the planet.

What standards do products with the Leaping Bunny logo meet?

• The brand do not test on animals nor the ingredients which come from a supplier.
• Companies are checked they meet standards every three years.
• This logo does not mean a product is vegan friendly.

Caring Consumer

This program is run by PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

What standards do products with the Caring Consumer logo meet?

• The brand do not test on animals and neither do the ingredient suppliers. Furthermore, their suppliers do not pay for animal testing in regards to ingredients, formulations or finished products.
• The Caring Consumer program does not audit those who are licensed by it. Instead, the company issues a written statement which in some cases may be untruthful.
• This logo does not mean a product is vegan friendly.

Choose Cruelty Free

This logo is verified by Choose Cruelty Free, an Australian independent, non-profit organisation which aims to ban the animal testing of cosmetics.

What standards do products with the Caring Consumer logo meet?

• CCF approved products require that the finish product is not tested on animals, and neither are any of the ingredients. In addition, the suppliers, and nobody on behalf of the suppliers, practice animal testing.
• CCF approved products also cannot contain any ingredients that are derived from the killing of any animal or a by product of killed animals.
• Companies approved by CCF partake in frequence re-accreditation to make sure they continue to meet the standards.
• This logo does not mean a product is vegan friendly.

If you see a product with one of these logos on, the next step is to research the company online so you can decide whether the product is truly cruelty free and/or suitable for you.