Animal Testing

When we do animal studies, we restrict our use of animals to those occasions where there are no viable alternatives. We constantly review our requirements for animal studies, and we are actively seeking alternatives. We hope that in time we will be able to replace much or all animal testing with alternative (non-animal) methods.

The majority of our research using laboratory animals is focused on obtaining information to better understand the mechanisms by which tobacco-related diseases develop. This understanding is critical for the development and validation of potentially reduced-risk tobacco products. We also conduct animal research in limited cases when we make product modifications, such as adding certain ingredients to tobacco, to determine that the modification is appropriate and does not increase the inherent toxicity of the tobacco smoke. 

We also conduct animal testing as part of our research into identifying compounds of potential therapeutic interest in the tobacco plant. This testing is conducted according to standard pharmaceutical protocols to determine the safety and efficacy of such compounds.

We will continue to seek ways to use alternatives to animal testing where possible. If we could do research without animal studies, we would. At present, we cannot.

We always follow the widely-recognized principles known as the “3Rs” of animal research: Replace, Reduce, and Refine. 

Replace—Whenever possible, we use existing state-of-the-art approaches and methods to replace animal studies:

• advanced computer modeling technologies (e.g., predictive in silico modeling and simulation); and
• in vitro biological systems.

Reduce—We use the absolute minimum number of animals needed to obtain valid results:

• Investigators carefully analyze which animals are most appropriate for each study and calculate the minimum number required to obtain the necessary data.
• Philip Morris International’s Animal Welfare Committee reviews all proposed animal studies to evaluate whether the study objectives can be achieved through other means.

Refine—We use the least invasive procedures to minimize pain and distress:

• We use bio-imaging technologies to study organ function in a non-invasive way (e.g., ultrasound imaging).
• Our laboratory technicians and veterinary specialists are trained in the latest techniques to manage and care for the animals in the best possible manner.

Responsible and Accountable

All of our activities are performed in accordance with applicable laws and regulations as well as internationally established best practices in laboratory animal care, to ensure that the animals are treated humanely and responsibly.

This includes compliance with all relevant legislation including the European Union Directive on Animal Experiments and the United States Department of Agriculture Animal Welfare Regulations. Our laboratories have also undergone voluntary accreditation with the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC). When we collaborate with external partners and research agencies or fund research, we require our partners to abide by appropriate animal welfare standards.