The following criteria apply to cosmetic finished products and ingredients („products“), which are conform to the requirements of the COSMOS-standard or the BDIH standard for natural and organic cosmetics, and for which, based on valid conformity evaluations, the BDIH control mark, with or without a COSMOS signature, has been or is being awarded.

1. Exclusion of animal ingredients

„Animals“ in the sense of these criteria are all multicellular organisms that are neither plants, nor algae, nor fungi.

For the production of the products at all production and manufacturing levels, no substances derived from animals may be used, including those substances that are produced by or gained from living animals („animal substances“).

Animal substances may also not be used as technical auxiliary materials, independent of whether or not these substances are still contained in the finished product.

The production of packaging (primary and secondary packaging) may not use any animal substances. This also applies to auxiliary materials, as e.g. adhesives and printing inks.

2. Ban of animal testing

The manufacturer may neither execute, nor commission third parties to execute, animal testing (tests on living animals or dead animals or animal substances) for the development and production of the products, nor may he allow third parties to execute or order animal testing on his or her inducement.

3. No genetic engineering

Substances that have been produced using genetic engineering are not allowed if this has been done using animal substances or animal genes, independent of whether or not these animal substances or animal genes are still contained in the finished product.