Weleda Launches Urgent Probe into Nazi Camp Skin Test Allegations
Natural cosmetics company Weleda has launched an investigation into allegations that its products were tested on Nazi concentration camp prisoners during World War II. The probe, which aims to uncover new evidence and provide clarity on Weleda's involvement with the Nazi regime, comes after historian Anne Sudrow's research suggested the company supplied raw materials for a hypothermia-protecting cream used in human experiments by SS doctor Sigmund Rascher.
According to Sudrow's report, Weleda ordered raw materials from a garden in the Dachau camp, where prisoners were subjected to inhumane conditions. The company also produced an anti-freeze cream that was allegedly used in experiments on prisoners kept in freezing conditions for hours. Weleda has condemned the Nazi regime's "atrocities" and acknowledged the new findings "may not have been fully explored in previous research."
The investigation is a response to Sudrow's allegations, which were first reported in 2023. At that time, Weleda stated that a separate report found no evidence Dr. Rascher tested the cream on prisoners. However, the company has now launched an urgent probe into its links to the Nazi camp.
Weleda's move comes as the world grapples with the dark history of human experimentation during World War II. The company's investigation is seen as a step towards accountability and transparency in its past dealings with the Nazi regime. "We condemn the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime and acknowledge the new findings may not have been fully explored in previous research," said a spokesperson for Weleda.
Historian Anne Sudrow, who first brought the allegations to light, welcomed Weleda's decision to launch an investigation. "I'm glad that Weleda is taking this seriously and acknowledging the need for further investigation," she said. "This is a crucial step towards uncovering the truth about the company's involvement with the Nazi regime."
The investigation will be led by an independent team of experts, who will review all available evidence and interview witnesses. The findings of the probe are expected to provide clarity on Weleda's role in the Nazi camp skin tests.
In related news, Weleda has announced that it will be reviewing its entire product line and supply chain to ensure that no other products were tested on prisoners during World War II. The company has also pledged to support efforts to preserve the memory of those who suffered at the hands of the Nazi regime.
As the investigation unfolds, one thing is clear: Weleda's decision to launch an urgent probe into its Nazi camp skin test allegations marks a significant step towards accountability and transparency in its past dealings with the Nazi regime.
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World, BBC Business, BREAKING: BBC Breaking and BBC Business.
