Animals and farming

Helpful information on the advertising rules for activities, products and services relating to animals or farming.

We know that the public are very passionate about animal welfare. Advertisers must ensure they prepare any ads involving, or depicting, animals in an appropriate way under our harm and offence rules. They must also be careful not to over-exaggerate and mislead consumers when it comes to advertising organic foods or referring to animal testing in ads.

Advertisers shouldn’t claim that animals raised organically are better provided for than they are. Absolute statements regarding animal welfare or any claims regarding farming methods must be backed up by documentary evidence which should be available on request.

When it comes to making claims about “organic” foods or ingredients, it is important advertisers are aware of the legislation that underpins the ad rules in this area as there is an EU law that sets the minimum standards for these types of claims. Foods can’t be referred to as “organic” or “made with organic ingredients” unless they meet these standards and, furthermore, come from farmers, processors or importers who are registered with an approved certification body and are subject to regular inspections.

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Latest rulings

Ancol Pet Products Ltd
- Upheld
- Internet (on own site)
- 20 November 2019
A website made misleading environmental claims about dog waste bags.
Norfolk Dinosaur Park Ltd t/a Dinosaur Adventure
- Upheld
- Poster
- 20 November 2019
A poster and billboard for a Halloween event were socially irresponsible.
Itch Petcare Ltd
- Not upheld
- Poster
- 16 October 2019
A billboard ad for flea treatment did not break the rules around harm and offence.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Foundation
- Upheld
- Poster
- 04 September 2019
A poster ad for PETA was banned for using the misleading claim “wool is just a cruel as fur”.

View all rulings

Animals and farming

Helpful information on the advertising rules for activities, products and services relating to animals or farming.

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