Ethics in Fetal Bovine Serum Collection

Introduction

Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is essential in bioprocess technology and has been widely used in research and pharmaceutical fields for decades. Despite its significant contributions to medical and veterinary health, concerns have been raised about the ethical collection of FBS. This article aims to clarify these concerns and discuss the ethical considerations involved in the collection of fetal blood.

Sustainability in Fetal Bovine Serum Collection

The sustainability of the food chain and the responsibility of society to maximise the use of these resources is now a global concern. There is a moral obligation to consider the welfare of animals within the food chain and to maximise their potential. Approximately 65% of an animal’s weight at slaughter is meat and bones. Fetal blood, primarily processed into FBS, is part of the wide array of bovine-derived materials used across diverse industries, with over 95% of the animal being utilised in some way.

Slaughter and Fetal Blood Collection

The decision to slaughter an animal is influenced by various economic factors and differing farming methods across regions. Most cattle slaughtered are bred for meat production. Pregnant cows, often from the dairy industry, may be culled due to herd management needs. It is estimated that around 8% of all animals slaughtered are pregnant.

FBS has been pivotal in mammalian cell culture for over 60 years, supporting a wide range of applications. However, ethical concerns regarding its collection have surfaced. It is crucial to understand that FBS is a by-product of meat production. If not used for cell culture, it would be diverted to other uses like pet food or rendering.

Humane Slaughter in FBS Collection

Global guidelines and regulations ensure the humane and ethical slaughter of animals, with veterinary officers present to monitor activities. The Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Officers ensures rigorous controls. Studies show that fetal brain activity resembles that of a sleeping adult, indicating a lack of consciousness and the inability to feel pain.

Physiological Changes During Slaughter

During the slaughter process, the cessation of blood supply to the uterus causes fetal oxygen levels to drop rapidly, leading to asphyxiation. Industry estimates indicate that the time from the maternal cut to fetal blood collection ranges from 20 to 40 minutes, ensuring that the fetus cannot be conscious or suffer.

Ethical Collection of Fetal Blood

Recognising animal sentience and potential pain, the aspects of fetal blood collection include the humane slaughter of pregnant animals and ensuring they are not transported in late pregnancy stages. Guidelines state that fetal tissue should not be collected until 15-20 minutes after the maternal cut, ensuring the fetus has lost consciousness.

Addressing Misconceptions about FBS Collection

There are misconceptions that cattle are bred solely for FBS collection. In reality, FBS is a by-product of meat production. The International Serum Industry Association (ISIA) educates stakeholders about the collection process and ethical considerations, promoting compliance with rigorous standards.

Conclusion

Significant legislation covers the concerns in fetal blood collection and the ISIA enforces compliance globally. The ISIA supports the humane treatment of animals, strong ethical awareness and the use of scientifically based information in decision-making. ISIA members must audit blood suppliers for compliance with animal handling guidelines, transport restrictions and non-resuscitation legislation.

The ISIA also supports the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) in scientific research. Moving away from FBS would not reduce animal use but would waste a valuable resource that has supported science for many years. The ISIA is committed to working with researchers to address questions and concerns about FBS.

For more information, refer to this publication: Animal Welfare and Ethics in the Collection of Fetal Blood for the Production of Fetal Bovine Serum.