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The systemic use of antibiotics in farm animals is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance

UN SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
UN SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
UN SDG 13 Climate Action
UN SDG 15 - Life on Land
UN SDG 14 - Life Below Water

More than 80% of all antibiotics produced in the world go into animal husbandry and lot feeding in particular.  The majority of these antibiotics are used prophylactically – as growth promoters, for health maintenance and to improve cost efficiencies. 

The high volume of antibiotics used in this way contributes directly to the development of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.  These bacteria can then be transmitted via direct contact between animals and humans, or through the food chain and the environment – soil, water. 

How does the systematic use of antibiotics in livestock production affect antibiotic resistance?

ABC 7:30 Report: Antibiotic Resistance in the Food Chain
Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer UK –
Sounding the alarm on antibiotics
.
Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark –
World Antibiotic Awareness Week.

The demand for antibiotic free meat is growing. ​For producers the time for change is now.​

Thomas Foods International (TFI) have just announced that as of 29 Sept 22, ionophores must be declared on the National Vendor Declaration Form and if ionophores have been used, the lamb cannot be classified as “Raised without Antibiotics”.  This means the lambs must have been raised without the use of Bovatec, Eskalin, or Lasalocid.

 

In the last 24 months, powerhouses, McDonalds, Subway and Costco have announced antibiotic reduction initiatives* in their supply chains. Discover how going ‘antibiotic-free’ will affect your future livestock business.