Our research on animal rights is divided into three main areas:
Animal Testing
In the 1980s, animal experimentation became a 'hot topic' as cosmetics companies testing their products on animals suddenly
became a big 'no no'. Even nowadays, the testing of products and ingredients on animals continues, despite the fact that it's
outlawed (for cosmetics and cosmetic ingredients) in this country.
Companies that test products on animals, or have an inadequate policy on animal testing, are criticised here. Other products
that also get tested on animals are household products and pet food. We also include animal testing for medical products in
this area.
Factory Farming
Much of modern farming is industrialised and intensive and can often be termed 'factory farming' because of the philosophy of
mass production. With this type of farming, many animals are crammed together in the smallest possible space and their
health and wellbeing suffers as a result.
Animal rights campaigners argue that if we have to farm animals, then we should be treating with them with compassion and
respect and that these values are incompatible with factory farming methods. Companies which sell factory farmed meat, or
products with battery eggs, will be criticised in this category.
Organic farming in general is much better for animals and
so companies with organic meat and dairy products are not criticised in this area.
Other Animal Rights
Companies that have been accused or prosecuted for cruelty to animals
are criticised here. Also found here are activities that might lead
to animal suffering - such as zoos and circuses, or using animals to
advertise products.
It also includes the use of slaughterhouse by-products - such as leather
or gelatine.
Download a pdf of the full detailed definitions of all the categories we use to rate companies.
