Precautionary Principle

The European “Precautionary Principle” is the philosophy that dictates many of their product approvals and other regulatory decisions. The “Precautionary Principle” (action should be taken to correct a problem if there is any evidence that harm may occur … the foresight to protect against any possible but unsubstantiated harm) does not recognize scientifically-based risk assessment and analysis as being adequate and, therefore, is very limiting with regard to adoption of new technology, not just new animal-health products and technology. The precautionary principles that guide the U.S. FDA are based on exhaustive, thorough and scientifically based research.