ISSUE FOCUS FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE February 2025 37 timicrobial resistance needs a multisectoral approach focused on responsible use of antimicrobials. PROGRESS IN ADDRESSING AMR IN FARMING The animal protein industry has made significant strides in reducing antimicrobial use to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Between 2014 and 2021, there was a notable 44% decrease in antimicrobial consumption for food-producing animals in the EU. This reduction highlights the positive impact of the industry's efforts. Some northern European countries have shown that even more substantial reductions are possible, indicating a promising trend towards further decreasing antimicrobial use and improving overall animal health practices. A FIGHT WORTH FIGHTING The encouraging news is that AMR is reversible. This is evident in antimicrobial use and AMR monitoring programs, which consistently show that reducing antibiotic use leads to lower resistance rates. By continuing along this path, we can preserve the efficacy of antimicrobials for both humans and animals, ensuring their availability and effectiveness for generations to come. WHY ANIMAL PROTEIN PRODUCERS SHOULD CARE ABOUT AMR For animal protein producers, addressing AMR is not just a matter of public health, but also a critical factor in maintaining industry sustainability and profitability. Governments worldwide are tightening regulations on antimicrobial use to combat AMR. At a recent United Nations General Assembly, over 140 countries committed to reducing antimicrobial usage and investing in better diagnostics and preventive measures. These commitments indicate a clear trend towards stricter controls, urging the animal industry to adapt its practices accordingly. In addition to regulatory pressures, there is a growing consumer demand for antibiotic-free (ABF) products, which are perceived as safer and more sustainable. Consumers associate ABF production with improved animal welfare and environmental practices. To meet this demand, producers are adopting better biosecurity measures, implementing vaccination programs, and using alternatives to antibiotics such as probiotics, prebiotics, and organic acids. Leading companies are already aligning with these consumer expectations to stay competitive. Future treatment challenges also underscore the importance of addressing AMR. As bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, the options for treating animal diseases diminish. This is particularly concerning for livestock and poultry producers who depend on these medicines. Without effective treatments, animal welfare declines due to prolonged suffering or higher mortality rates, productivity drops as disease outbreaks become harder to control, and production costs rise, threatening profitability. By addressing these issues, animal protein producers can comply with regulations, satisfy consumer demands, and ensure sustainable and profitable operations. REDUCING ANTIBIOTICS TOGETHER Transitioning to systems with reduced need for antibiotics is not without its hurdles. It may be challenging to maintain animal health and performance while avoiding antibiotics. Investments in improved farm managements as well as biosecurity and alternative health management strategies are needed. The time to act is now: failing to curtail AMR will mean greater damage to human and animal health at a higher cost later on.
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