In June 2025, Scantox A/S in Denmark was awarded Full Accreditation by AAALAC International (Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care), recognizing excellence in animal care and ethical research practices. This reinforces Scantox’s position as a leading preclinical CRO committed to animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and scientific integrity.
AAALAC International Recognition
In its official communication, the AAALAC International Council on Accreditation noted:
“The Council commends you and the staff for providing and maintaining an excellent programme of laboratory animal care and use. Especially noteworthy were the impressive Positive Reinforcement Training programme for dogs and pigs with dedicated trainer; the big outdoor facilities for dogs at Block 10 and the initiatives for outdoor facilities for pigs; the dedicated competent staff and friendly and open atmosphere; the new professional rehoming initiative; and the multiple daily and clinical observations of all individual animals.”
This designation builds on our existing AAALAC accreditation at Scantox’s discovery-focused in vivo site in Graz, Austria, further affirming a group-wide commitment to excellence in animal welfare across the full continuum of preclinical development.
The Council further confirmed that our program conforms with AAALAC International standards, specifically:
- The European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes (ETS 123)
- Bekendtgørelse om Dyreforsøg (BEK nr 1065 af 25/09/2024)
- The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (NRC, 2011)
Why AAALAC Matters for Preclinical Research
Global scientific credibility: AAALAC accreditation is considered the gold standard in animal research ethics and care—recognized by sponsors, regulatory authorities, and industry leaders worldwide.
Operational excellence: Reinforces the quality and integrity of our in vivo research, particularly in IND-enabling and regulatory studies.
Compliance assurance: Demonstrates our strict adherence to national and international legislation and guidance.
Innovation in animal welfare: Our programs for positive reinforcement training, outdoor enrichment, professional rehoming, and high-frequency animal monitoring were specifically cited as exemplary practices.
Institutional validation: For our investors and banking partners, this accreditation reflects operational maturity, robust governance, and reduced regulatory risk.
This achievement represents both a milestone and acknowledgement of our devotion to quality standards of animal welfare. It underscores our scientific and ethical leadership and strengthens our platform for global collaboration and long-term growth.
What is AAALAC Accreditation?
AAALAC International (the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care) is a globally recognized nonprofit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science. Accreditation is awarded through a voluntary, peer-reviewed process based on international standards for animal care and use in research. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for ethical laboratory animal care and operational excellence.
What does full AAALAC accreditation mean for Scantox?
Scantox’s full accreditation from AAALAC International confirms that our Denmark facility meets or exceeds the highest global standards for laboratory animal care. It reflects the maturity of our animal care and use program, the competency and commitment of our staff, and the alignment of our operations with both international guidance and Danish legislation. It also reinforces our reputation as a trusted, quality-driven partner for nonclinical and IND-enabling studies.
What specific areas did the AAALAC Council recognize at Scantox Denmark?
In its formal assessment, the AAALAC Council commended several exemplary practices at Scantox Denmark, including:
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A dedicated Positive Reinforcement Training program for dogs and pigs, supported by experienced trainers.
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Large outdoor enrichment areas for dogs at Block 10 and new initiatives for outdoor pig facilities.
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A strong, friendly, and open culture supported by competent staff.
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A new professional rehoming initiative for post-study animals.
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Rigorous animal monitoring, including multiple daily and clinical observations of each individual animal.
These practices demonstrate our leadership in both animal welfare innovation and operational excellence.
What standards is Scantox accredited against?
Scantox’s program conforms to key international and national standards, including:
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The European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes (ETS 123)
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The Danish implementing legislation Bekendtgørelse om Dyreforsøg (BEK nr 1065 af 25/09/2024)
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The internationally recognized Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (NRC, 2011)
Why is AAALAC accreditation important for our clients and partners?
AAALAC accreditation offers assurance to sponsors, regulatory bodies, and institutional partners that Scantox adheres to globally accepted standards for animal care. For clients conducting IND-enabling studies, regulatory toxicology, or discovery research:
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It ensures scientific credibility and regulatory readiness
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Demonstrates compliance with ethical and legal frameworks
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Reduces risk in due diligence or partner audits
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Reflects strong quality systems and governance maturity
How does this accreditation support Scantox’s broader mission?
This achievement affirms Scantox’s commitment to advancing high-quality science through ethically responsible research. It strengthens our foundation for collaboration across global drug development programs and reinforces our role as a leading preclinical CRO with integrated capabilities in discovery, toxicology, and regulatory support.
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