Groups like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) are avid campaigners against cruelty against animals and the end of animal research.

Their stand is that "Human clinical and epidemiological studies, studies on cadavers, and computer simulations are faster, more reliable, less expensive, and more humane than animal tests. Ingenious scientists have used human brain cells to develop a model “microbrain” that can be used to study tumors and have also come up with artificial skin and bone marrow. Instead of killing animals, we can now test irritancy on egg membranes, produce vaccines from cell cultures, and perform pregnancy tests using blood samples." (www.PETA.org)

As a devout vegetarian, I choose to wear only man- made clothing and shoes and have an unshakable belief that animal testing for any kind of cosmetic reason is unnecessary and cruel. I do my best to ensure all my products come from companies that test neither the ingredients nor the final product on animals. (beware companies that say "this finished product has not been used in animal testing" - this is code for "the separate ingredients have been tested on animals...")

But I am not sure about medical research. I want to believe that it is unnecessary but is it? Many scientists would say it's a necessary evil. Some don't mind either way and don't think it's evil, just necessary.

But many (and that number is increasing) argue that with today's technology, stem cells and other factors, animal testing is outdated, cruel and simply unnecessary.

Does anyone have further information on this subject? Do you go out of your way to buy beauty products that are not tested on animals? Do you feel animal experimentation for medical research is still necessary?

For a list of companies that do not test on animals, click here www.caringconsumer.com