Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has reduced the number of animals used in research by 41 per cent to 35,876 in 2025. The decline is mainly due to a reduction in the use of wild fish for stock monitoring and research into fish migration.
By investing in innovative techniques such as computer models and complex cell systems, fewer laboratory animals have been required for scientific research in recent years.
Why still animal testing?
In 2025, almost 60 per cent of the animal experiments conducted by WUR fell under what is known as 'target animal research': research carried out in the interests of the animal or the species itself. For example, a great deal of research has been carried out into characterising the avian influenza virus in chickens in order to reduce symptoms and curb the further spread of the virus. Animal experiments remain necessary in some cases because they are required by law or because there is still no viable alternative, for example in research on animal health, food safety, or vaccine development.
Animal welfare comes first
WUR only conducts animal experiments when there is no viable alternative or when required by law. Every animal experiment requires a permit granted by the Central Animal Testing Committee: an independent administrative body of the Dutch government. The level of discomfort for the animal is carefully assessed both before and after the experiment. In 2024, the proportion of experiments with moderate or severe discomfort was limited, with the vast majority of animal experiments falling under the category of 'mild discomfort'.
Alternatives on the rise
For years, WUR has been investing heavely in alternative research methods. Animal researchers now use advanced technologies such as:
- Drones and sensors to monitor wild and captive animals without disturbing them;
- Complex cell systems (organoids) that mimic the function of organs and can partially replace animal testing;
- Intelligent data models that predict animal health without the need for animal research.
Looking ahead: investing in the future
WUR fully acknowledges and supports the societal and political pressure to reduce the number of animal experiments and is transparent about the animal tests it conducts. Despite budget cuts in the education and research sectors, WUR continues to invest in future proof research facilities, methods, and techniques, making animal-free and animal-friendly research and education increasingly common. This is within the broader context of, among other things, the protein transition, pandemic preparedness, and the 'One Health' approach, where human and animal health converge. Despite financial and geopolitical challenges, WUR remains committed to scientifically responsible and societally supported research.
