March 26, 2010
Correct use of antibiotics still the key
Antibiotic use in livestock can be an effective method of disease prevention when used correctly, in addition to general disease treatment, said Paul Ebner, a Purdue University animal scientist.
However, for both consumer and animal safety, not all antibiotics can be used with every species, Dr Ebner warned.
Animal producers also have to be mindful of withdrawal times, or a specific amount of time the animal must not consume the medication before processing to ensure no residues remain in the meat, he added.
The controversy with livestock antibiotic use mostly centres around the antibiotic-resistant bacteria, or so-called superbugs, that affect humans. This antibiotic resistance in humans has more to do with human antibiotic use than on-farm use, according to Dr Ebner.
The American Veterinary Medical Association has strict guidelines on antibiotic use. It is crucial that livestock producers work closely with their veterinarians in using these products in the healthiest, most efficient ways that benefit the community, Dr Ebner advised.
