Common questions
What is SAFEshopper?
SAFEshopper is New Zealand's online guide and phone app aiming to help shoppers use their consumer power to select cosmetic and household products that have not been tested on animals!
The list not only has the latest products available in New Zealand, it is searchable by product type to make it easy to find companies that don't test on animals, helping people when shopping in their local supermarket, pharmacy, department store or online. It also has categories for vegan and New Zealand products.
The SAFE Shopper is a comprehensive guide however it is not exhaustive. If you know of a company that does not test on animals that is not listed here please ask them to apply by sending our handy letter.
What is the criteria for companies appearing in the guide?
Why do some companies claim to be cruelty free but do not appear in SAFE’s guide?
Are all companies listed vegan?
Which companies should I avoid/boycott?
How can I spot an animal testing company?
‘No animal testing’ means no animal testing right? Unfortunately, just because a company says ‘against testing on animals’ doesn’t mean they don’t do it. Finding companies that have genuine non-animal testing policies can be frustrating as some make misleading claims in order to win your custom. Find out more about being a 'cruelty free detective' on SAFE's blog.
Is animal testing for cosmetics banned in New Zealand?
Yes. In March 2015 the Government announced a ban on cosmetics animals testing, meaning that no animal will suffer for these kinds of experiments in New Zealand laboratories. However the ban only currently covers products manufactured within NZ not those imported, so it’s important to still be aware that what you are buying is cruelty free. Find out more about the campaign.