Grouping of substances in regulatory fields, where to get the good balance?

The grouping of chemical substances is indeed a powerful tool for regulatory processes, offering a more streamlined and efficient approach to hazard assessment, especially when dealing with large numbers of chemicals. By grouping substances with chemical structure similarity, mechanisms of action, and/or toxicological profiles, regulators can assess the risks of multiple compounds simultaneously, rather than individually. This approach has significant benefits but also comes with important considerations that need to be carefully managed.