b'BIOFILM REGULATORYTOOLBOXThe EU COST Action CA23152 - BiofilmHowever, a key challenge is that regulatory science RegulatoryToolBox brings together biofilmhas not kept pace with advances in research. In experts from academia, industry, and regulatorymany cases, it has failed to align with what is now bodies across Europe to bridge the gap betweenconsidered standard practice in academic and current biofilm research and outdated regulatoryindustrial laboratories. This disconnect has created practices, and to promote reproducible methodsa significant gap between fundamental scientific for biofilm assessment and new product claims. innovation and the regulatory guidelines used to assess product safety, efficacy, and performance. Closing The Biofilm RegulatoryToolBox officially launchedthis gap is essential to ensure that regulations remain with its kick-off meeting in Brussels in October 2024.fit for purpose and continue to support innovation Dr Paulina Rakowska, NBICs Biofilms Standards andwhile safeguarding health and the environment.Regulatory Programme Manager, has been appointed as a Vice-Chair of the Action. Several members ofBiofilm RegulatoryToolBox aims to establish a the wide NBIC network hold leadership roles withinEuropean network of stakeholders from academia, the Action, reflecting strong UK involvement. industry, and regulatory bodies with a goal to develop guidance on the scope, terminology, and Regulatory science refers to the development offrameworks needed to foster alignment between research tools, including equipment, in vitro and inresearch and regulatory requirements.vivo models, and analytical methods that support evidence-based decision-making. Although each country has its own regulatory framework for product approval, all regulators depend on the outputs of regulatory science to assess whether a product can enter the commercial market and what label claims the manufacturer is permitted to make. As part of this process, regulators must evaluate not only the products effectiveness and safety but also its potential to improve public health and its environmental impact.35'