Symrise AG UV-filter court case: the end of the EU animal testing ban for cosmetics?

Abstract

The Symrise AG v. ECHA court case marks a pivotal moment in the European Union’s regulatory landscape concerning animal testing for cosmetics. This comprehensive review dissects the legal, regulatory, and ethical dimensions stemming from the conflict between the EU’s ban on animal testing for cosmetics under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and the REACH regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 requirements for chemical safety assessments, which may necessitate animal testing. Through an analysis of the European General Court’s rulings, stakeholder questionnaires, and comparative case studies, this review highlights the intricacies of navigating between consumer safety, workers’ safety, environmental protection, and animal welfare. It highlights the court’s stance that neither regulation holds primacy, necessitating a harmonised application to fulfil safety and ethical standards. The review also delves into the implications for future regulatory policies, emphasising the need for the development and regulatory acceptance of alternative testing methods. This case sets a precedent for reconciling scientific assessment with ethical considerations, steering the cosmetics industry, regulatory bodies, and scientific community towards a more ethically conscious and safety-oriented chemical testing and safety assessment approach.