PETA has criticized major retailers for offering products made from hair sourced through questionable animal treatment, according to a report.
Following pressure from animal rights advocates, companies such as Neiman Marcus, Ulta, Kohl’s, and Michael’s have discreetly ceased sales of badger hair brushes in recent months.
After being contacted by The Post last Friday, Target began pulling badger hair paint and shaving brushes from third-party sellers on its site.
Target’s CEO Michael Fidelke received two emails from PETA in April and May, prompting the review of these products.
Spokesperson Brian Harper Thibbald stated that the retailer is assessing the situation and removing listings that violate its pro-badger policy. This includes a $68.32 trio of paint brushes showcased on their site and a men’s shaving brush taken down recently.
As outlined on Target’s website, the retailer does not allow the use of fur, hair, beards, or feathers from animals that are not part of the food supply chain.
PETA President Tracy Lyman noted in an email that “High-quality synthetic brushes perform as well as, if not better than, those made with animal hair.”
To advocate for their cause, PETA shared a disturbing five-minute video with retailers that highlights the conditions in China’s badger brush industry.
This video includes footage of animals being mistreated on fur farms, which are known to be the largest source of hair used in various products. It also depicts animals confined in small cages, often injured and under severe stress.
PETA’s initial investigation into these farms back in 2018 led over 100 companies, including brands like L’Oréal, Schick, Sherwin-Williams, Sephora, and Procter & Gamble, to stop selling badger products.
Ulta, Kohl’s, and Michael’s confirmed to PETA through emails that they have pulled badger hair items from their websites. Neiman Marcus, on the other hand, removed these products without any prior notification to PETA.
Ulta previously offered Muhle and Taylor brushes, while Michaels provided Escoda and Da Vinci options.
In recent decades, PETA has significantly influenced the decline of fur usage, targeting high-profile brands like Calvin Klein, Gucci, Chanel, and Versace, which have all moved away from using fur.
Backlash against Canada Goose a few years ago, featuring protests with graphic images of dead coyotes, resulted in the company ceasing the use of fur trims by 2022.
