Alternatives to
Animal Experiments
Scientific experiments using animals are conducted in all areas of life
sciences. In basic research in particular, they help to recognise new
scientific interrelationships. Current legislation also requires convincing
animal experiments within the scope of the toxicological testing of sub-
stances. At the same time, however, the requirement to use alternatives
to animal experiments when and wherever possible is firmly anchored
in the German Animal Welfare Act. The assessment and development
of alternative and complementary methods to animal experiments
therefore constitute an important task of the BfR. This includes not only
fulfilling legal tasks, but also BfR´s own research and the support of
external projects in this field. In addition, the Institute is committed to im-
proving the living and housing conditions of animals used in experiments.
