SCIENCE FDA rules: Animal testing prior to human trials no longer necessary

Freya Shepherd Science and Tech Editor

As of 2013, it has been illegal in the UK and Europe to use animals to test cosmetic products and their ingredients. It is also illegal to test on animals if there is a viable nonanimal method. Non-animal methods have come on immensely in recent years, with ‘Organs-on-chips’ devices receiving lots of attention. But, as of yet, nothing can replace animals in their entirety, in some circumstances.

Until now, in the US as it is here in the UK, it has been a legal requirement that all drugs be tested on animals prior to human trials.

But in December 2022, following legislation signed by President Joe Biden, there has been a drastic change in FDA laws surrounding animal testing in the US. New medicines need not be tested on animals to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The move has been welcomed by animal welfare organizations and is a huge change after 80 years of animal use in safety regulation.

PETA, People of the Ethical Treatment of Animals, have declared the shift a ‘Victory!’ for the FDA Modernisation Act of 2021 – an act the

Freya Shepherd