For Fast Launch:
October 23, 2023
Contact:
Tasgola Bruner 202-483-7382
Birmingham, Ala. – Please see the next assertion from Katherine Groff, M.S., senior scientist at PETA, regarding just-released pictures by the U.S. Division of Agriculture (USDA) exhibiting extreme neglect at Southern Biotechnology Associates, which give extra proof of bleak circumstances at an antibody-production facility and a scarcity of USDA oversight:
An emaciated goat at Southern Biotechnology Associates on Might 24, 2023
A Birmingham, Alabama, antibody manufacturing facility obtained a license from the USDA simply sooner or later after the company cited the corporate for violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA). Images not too long ago launched to PETA by the USDA in response to a public information request present animals in pressing want of veterinary consideration throughout the company’s Might 24, 2023, inspection. Amongst different violations, goats had been affected by lameness or unable or reluctant to even stroll. One goat was making an attempt to stroll on entrance joints and one other on solely his entrance legs. One other lame goat was emaciated, and one had a 2-inch facial swelling. Not one of the animals had obtained veterinary care. The USDA said that each one violations have to be addressed inside two extra inspections or the ability would forfeit its license, however it then carried out one other investigation the next day and accepted relicensing beneath the AWA—clearly, inadequate time to make sure that the animals had obtained satisfactory care.
Not solely did the USDA fail in its job to guard severely uncared for animals, there are additionally higher strategies for acquiring antibodies than through the use of animals—begging the query of why animals are even used for this objective. Quite a few corporations produce animal-free antibodies, and PETA entities have funded the manufacturing and use of antibodies which might be scientifically superior to and might substitute using animal-derived antibodies. (See right here and right here.) It’s time that we cease utilizing animals for his or her antibodies when there are extra scientifically sound and humane choices.
For extra data on PETA’s investigative newsgathering and reporting, please go to PETA.org, take heed to The PETA Podcast, or observe the group on X (previously Twitter), Fb, or Instagram.
