Cosmetics giants 'misled public', says $100m lawsuit
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Two major cosmetics brands that champion their cruelty-free ethics are facing a lawsuit claiming they misled the public as they allow animal-testing on some products abroad.
Avon and Estée Lauder, which stopped animal testing in the UK two decades ago, sell cosmetics in China, where animal-testing of cosmetic ingredients is required by law.
Last week, Avon, which sells £6bn of cosmetics worldwide annually, changed its British website, which stated that it stopped animal testing more than two decades ago, to remove all traces of the claim, after a complaint to the Advertising Standards Authority.
In the US, five women have launched a legal action against the companies and are seeking $100m (£63.8m) in compensation. Their lawyer, Michael Avenatti, said: "There is nothing forcing these companies to sell products in China, and if these brands don't take a stand against inhumane policies, then nothing forces the policies to change. My clients purchased products believing the companies were not involved in animal testing while these brands were allowing testing in China to reap in profits."
If successful, the case could have serious repercussions for global cosmetics marketing.
Avon said: "Avon will first attempt to persuade the requesting authority to accept non-animal test data." Estée Lauder said: "Our commitment hasn't changed. Our products are not tested on animals except when absolutely mandated by law."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments