The purchase was made in December 2023, just four months after Amyris, Biosance’s parent company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Many fans are left wondering if THG is a cruelty-free parent company, and whether Biosance can remain cruelty-free. As leaders in the industry, we at Cruelty-Free Kitty are closely following this discovery and what it means for Biosance’s cruelty-free status.
Is THG a Cruelty Free Parenting Company?
Currently, THG is in a gray area regarding its cruelty-free status. This means that it is unclear whether the parent company tests on animals, or owns the products that are tested on animals. Many brands that fall under this umbrella either did not respond to us after multiple attempts, or refused to provide additional information about their suppliers, ingredients, third parties, etc.
This time, Cruelty-Free Kitty is waiting for an answer. We reached out directly to THG to learn more about their animal testing policies. Since we cannot confirm or deny their status, we are putting them in a gray area until we get more information. We will be sure to keep our readers informed as the situation progresses.
What Biosance Discovery Means for Cruelty-Free Consumers
Although THG is currently in the gray area, Biosance is still certified cruelty-free by PETA and Leaping Bunny.
The hopping rabbit certification ensures that the products do not test any of their finished products or ingredients on animals. And they don’t ask suppliers or third parties to test the animals for them. Additionally, these brands do not sell their products in any countries where animal testing is required by law, unless they are registered with the China Qualification Program for Leaping Bunny.
Therefore, as long as THG continues to maintain Biosance’s Leaping Bunny certification, the brand will remain cruelty-free on our website. We have asked THG if they plan to continue renewing this certificate and are currently awaiting their response. If THG completes the Biosance certifications, we will reach out directly for more information.
What Other Brands Does Amyris Sell?
Amyris, a pioneer in the biofuel industry, focused on excellence and founded Biosance in 2015. However, Biosance is not the only cruelty-free beauty brand Amyris has ever owned and sold. Rose Inc. and JVN are two certified Leaping Bunny strains that have met the same results as Biosance.
Purchase of JVN
JVN, a hair care company co-founded by Jonathan van Ness of Queer Eye, was successfully sold to Windsong Global in December 2023 for 1.25 million. We contacted Windsong Global and received the following statements:
CFK: Will JVN remain a cruelty-free company?
WS: Yes – Jonathan van Ness is a partner at JVN and we will continue with all cruelty free programs.
CFIK: What other beauty brands does Windsong Global currently have?
WS: We have investments in Revive, Algenist, Cosbar, and Pipette.
CFK: What is your animal testing policy?
WS: Windsong has a beauty-focused industry and each brand strives for cruelty-free, eco-conscious, and clean ingredients.
Although Windsong Global owns cruelty-free companies, it has invested in Algenist, a company that tests animals where required by law. Although they do not retain full ownership of Algenist, their investment means they fund a cruelty-free brand. Therefore, Windsong Global is not a cruelty-free parent company. However, according to their statements, JVN will remain cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny is guaranteed under this new acquisition.
Purchase of Rose Inc
Rose Inc. it is another company that has so far continued to be acquired without cruelty. Co-founded by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Rose Inc. sold for a cool $2.5 million to AA Investments in late 2023. It is not yet clear whether AA Investments is a cruelty-free parent company. However, like Biosance and JVN, Rose Inc. currently maintains Leaping Bunny certification.
Cruelty Free Kit Product Reviews
At Cruelty-Free Kitty, we’re always researching the latest product discoveries. Given these three recent brand acquisitions, we will update each product listing as we gather more information. Our goal is to keep you informed so you can continue to make good purchasing choices.
Which Brands Are Cruelty Free?
Download our list of over 600+ cruelty-free products directly to your device. Take it with you wherever you go, and never worry about supporting animal testing again. Click here to download