The Leaping Bunny Standard

The Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics’ (CCIC) Leaping Bunny Program maintains a single, comprehensive standard for cruelty-free labeling, making it easier for consumers to identify products that are manufactured without animal testing.

Founded in 1996, the CCIC is a coalition of animal protection groups in the U.S. and Canada. Today, it also partners with organizations around the world to promote an international standard for animal-friendly products.

The MSPCA encourages consumers to make conscientious choices about personal care products. By selecting products certified under cruelty-free standards, consumers can help reduce reliance on animals in laboratories.

At first glance, it may seem that products labeled “cruelty-free” or “not tested on animals” are safe options. Unfortunately, this is not always true. Since “cruelty-free” is not clearly defined by law, companies may use the term loosely to mean almost anything.

The CCIC Leaping Bunny Program addresses this gap by ensuring products meet rigorous cruelty-free standards. Companies licensed to use the Leaping Bunny logo must:

• Sign a pledge not to test on animals during any stage of product development. Ingredient suppliers must make the same pledge, assuring that the entire product is free of animal testing.
• Undergo on-site audits to verify compliance with their “no animal testing” policy.

Consumers can visit the Leaping Bunny website or download the Leaping Bunny App for a Compassionate Shopping Guide. The guide includes a searchable list of approved brands that meet the Leaping Bunny Corporate Standard of Compassion for Animals.

Learn about our legislation to ban the sale of most cosmetics newly tested on animals.