According to Tim Crawford, a research and development manager at Doc Johnson, "that means Doc Johnson did not, does not, will never do any animal testing on our products and will not use any material that underwent animal testing prior to the year 1995." It also means that neither the company nor its ingredient suppliers conduct, commission or pay for test on animals for ingredients, formulations or finished products.
Organizations like PETA and Leaping Bunny aim to hold companies accountable when it comes to animal testing and animal ingredients. Although this certification isn't common among pleasure product retailers, it's one way to find ethical sex products.
Consider Where It's Made
Like many consumer products, sex toys are often made in China to reduce manufacturing costs. Choosing toys that are manufactured and assembled in the United States cuts down on shipping - and your toy's carbon footprint. You're also supporting the U.S. economy, rather than sending jobs overseas. Some people see that as an important ethical consideration as well. Companies like Doc Johnson, Tantus, Aneros and Sliquid manufacture all or most of their products on U.S soil.
Check Materials/Ingredients
Checking materials and ingredients is the simplest way to make a more informed - and more ethical - purchase at your local sex toy retailer. If you're concerned about the use of animal products, they can be hiding in a lot of things. Latex condoms, for example, may contain a milk protein called casein, while many lubricants contain glycerin that may have animal origins (ensure that lubes are glycerin free or specify vegetable glycerin to be sure.) When it comes to your personal health, you should also be on the lookout for phthalates, a chemical agent that's used to soften plastics and is often found in sex toys. Any sex toy you buy should at least specify that it's phthalate free. Better yet, buy sex toys made of medical-grade silicone, glass, metal or wood. (Learn more in How to Avoid a Toxic Relationship With Your Dildo.)
