FDA shuts down biggest primate lab, saving monkeys and millions.
The FDA Shuts Down Controversial Primate Testing Lab
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made a significant move by closing its Arkansas lab that conducted drug testing on monkeys. The lab, known as the National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), was notorious for its experiments on addiction using substances like nicotine, amphetamine, ketamine, and Ritalin. While some monkeys were retired to a sanctuary in 2018, the testing on other primates continued.
A Victory for Animal Rights Advocates
In a recent email confirmed by the White Coat Waste Project, it was revealed that the FDA has ceased using primate test subjects at the NCTR. This decision comes after years of advocacy by organizations like the White Coat Waste Project, which estimated that the testing of these monkeys cost taxpayers a staggering $5.5 million.
“NCTR does not currently have a non-human primate program,” the email stated. “It was retired in December 2022.”
The White Coat Waste Project, through Freedom of Information Act requests, uncovered the extent of these experiments, revealing that over 200 monkeys were subjected to testing each year. This revelation sparked outrage among animal rights activists and prompted calls for change.
A Step Towards Progress
Representative Brendan Boyle (D-PA) expressed his satisfaction with the FDA’s decision, stating, “Painful testing on primates has no place in the 21st century when superior alternatives are available. I am thrilled that, following my years of advocacy with the White Coat Waste Project, the FDA has finally shut down all of its primate experiments at the National Center for Toxicological Research. I will continue to lead bipartisan efforts in Washington to stop the abuse of primates and other animals in outdated, expensive, and unnecessary government experiments.”
It is important to note that the Animal Welfare Act provides certain protections for test subjects, including dogs, cats, nonhuman primates, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, and horses used for research purposes. However, invertebrate birds, specific rats and mice, livestock, poultry, fish, and reptiles are not covered by these protections.
While the closure of the FDA’s primate testing lab is a significant step forward, it is essential to recognize that there are still approximately 20 government agencies involved in animal testing. For instance, the National Institutes of Health has allocated around $2.2 billion in contracts or grants to foreign organizations for research projects involving animals in the past decade.
As the fight for animal rights continues, it is crucial to advocate for the use of alternative methods and push for the elimination of unnecessary and inhumane experiments on animals.
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