Use of antimicrobials in food animals and impact of transmission of antimicrobial resistance on humans

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance leads to failure of clinical antimicrobial therapy, and has raised urgent global public health concern. Humans can acquire antimicrobial resistance from drugs through the food chain or the environment (contaminated water, air, soil, or manure). While antimicrobials have been regular supplements in animal feed that maintain health and improve productivity of livestock, their over-use in feeding forage has led to a rise in antibacterial resistance. This review summarizes the current use of antimicrobials in livestock, the harmful effects of antimicrobial resistance, and the comprehensive combat measures.

Keywords

• Antimicrobials
• Antibiotic-resistance
• Feed additives
• Food safety
• Food animals
• Public health