The long-awaited amendments to Canada’s Food & Drugs Act banning animal testing on cosmetics was passed by Parliament in June and will officially become law in December. CA hosted a member webinar to explain the Cdn. regulatory context for cosmetics and how the ban fits within it, review the specific wording of the amendments, and discuss the next steps we can expect from Health Canada in the development of any guidance or regulatory changes that may be required going forward. Featured presenter was CA member Laura Gomez, Partner with Gowling WLG and expert in the regulation of cosmetics and personal care products in Canada. The webinar presentation slides can be found HERE
It is important to note that this legislation is based upon the principles of the European Union ban and designed to fit within the Canadian regulatory framework. The specific wording was drafted by Health Canada which ensured that it will be workable as well as supported by the regulator who is responsible for product and consumer safety. Consequently, the legislation was included in a Government bill which helped to ensue its passage. There was no opposition nor amendments proposed during its consideration by Parliament. The specific wording of the amendments can be found in our June 2 member update HERE.
For those who missed it, a media conference was held June 27th by Canada’s Minister of Health announcing the passage of the amendments and included key stakeholders including Cosmetics Alliance. The event is covered in our most recent newsletter.
