Myths and misconceptions

Reality

In some areas, animal testing is still embedded within countries and their regulatory systems, particularly for medicines, chemicals and veterinary products.

However, this is changing.

Many validated non-animal methods now exist and are increasingly accepted by regulators globally. In some cases, they are already replacing animal tests because they can be faster, more accurate or more relevant to human biology.

The challenge is that regulatory systems often evolve slowly, meaning legal requirements can lag behind scientific progress.

Reality

Animals have historically been used as models for trying to predict outcomes in humans, but this approach has well-recognised limitations, including differences in biological systems between different species.

Many drugs that appear safe and effective in animals later fail in human clinical trials.

For this reason, there is growing investment in human-relevant research methods, including:

• Human cell models
• Organoids
• Organ-on-chip technologies
• Advanced computer modelling
• High-throughput screening.

These tools allow scientists to study human biology more directly and are becoming increasingly important in modern research.

Reality

Scientists are not the problem. They are a critical part of the solution.

Despite common misconceptions, scientists do not enter research to harm animals. They enter science to solve problems, improve health outcomes and expand knowledge.

Many researchers recognise the limitations of animal models and are actively interested in developing and using more accurate, human-relevant methods.

However, scientists often work within wider systems that can make change difficult. A range of institutional, financial, regulatory and cultural barriers can slow the adoption of non-animal research methods.

For example:

• Regulatory requirements may still require animal data for approval
• Funding systems may prioritise established research approaches
• Institutional infrastructure and training may be built around animal models
• Access to validated alternatives can still be limited

Because of these barriers, moving away from harmful animal use requires system-level change.

That is why Beyond Animal Research (BAR) works collaboratively with scientists, institutions, regulators and industry to remove barriers and accelerate the adoption of effective alternatives.

Learn more about these barriers here.

Reality

Many non-animal methods already exist, and new alternatives are continually being developed.

These approaches allow scientists to study human biology more directly and often provide faster or more relevant results.

Examples include:

• Human cell models
• Organoids
• Organ-on-chip technologies
• Advanced computer modelling
• High-throughput screening

Learn more about alternatives to animal testing here.

Reality

Regulation generally focuses on how animals are used, rather than systematically replacing them.

In New Zealand, animal use in science is overseen through Animal Ethics Committees and Codes of Ethical Conduct. While this framework regulates animal use, it does not require replacing animals when alternatives exist.

This means the system manages harmful animal use rather than actively driving its phase-out.

Learn more about the laws governing animal use in New Zealand.

Reality

This presents a false choice. It is not simply a matter of testing on animals or testing on people.

Beyond Animal Research (BAR) opposes causing harm to both animals and humans.

Instead, we advocate for the development and use of human-relevant scientific methods, such as human cell and tissue models (including organoids), advanced computer modelling, and other modern technologies. These approaches allow scientists to study human biology directly and can provide more relevant information for predicting human responses.

Advancing these methods helps move science away from harmful animal use while improving our ability to understand and protect human health.