GAITHERSBURG, Md.- In an effort to reduce the number of animals used in the registration and testing of cosmetics in China, US non-profit laboratory, the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS), provided in-depth training for two scientists from the Zhejiang Food and Drug Administration’s Institute for Food and Drug Control (ZJFDA IFDC). The course focused on laboratory techniques using more predictive and human relevant test methods such as reconstructed human skin and eye models. The training was designed to assist the agency in adopting non-animal methods as a means to evaluate and monitor cosmetics products manufactured in the Zhejiang province.
ZJ FDA is responsible for the administration and supervision of food, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics in Zhejiang province, China. With a goal to incorporate non-animal methods into their regulatory framework, the scientists sought out training which would help them conduct the tests in their laboratory in China. Dr. Rong Kuang, Director of the Department of Biology of ZJFDA IFDC commented, “The training by IIVS will allow us to start conducting these tests in our new state-of-the-art laboratory. We are very appreciative of the assistance IIVS has given to our program.”
China’s scientific and regulatory community is starting to embrace the use of non-animal methods as is evident from a variety of scientific conferences organized in China on the topic. “We know it is essential that Chinese laboratories be able to provide non-animal testing methods before the CFDA will approve their use in regulatory submissions,” states Erin Hill, Co-Founder and President of IIVS. “The ZJFDA’s goal to be recognized as a Key Laboratory for non-animal methods presents a great opportunity and we are pleased to be able to support their notable efforts.”