When a federal judge in New York Ruled the U.S. Food and Drug Administration must take action on certain antibiotic usage in animal agriculture one point was not made clear. Liz Wagstrom, chief veterinarian for the National Pork Producers Council, explains – the judge’s ruling addresses only the growth promotion and nutritional efficiency uses of penicillin and tetracycline. She emphasizes the drugs would still be available for use in disease prevention, control, and treatment.

Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the American Veterinary Medical Association, says – the judicious use of antimicrobials plays a key role in preserving the health of our nation’s food animals and the safety of our nation’s food supply. Still, AVMA acknowledges the growing concern regarding antimicrobial use and resistance in animals and people, and supports the judicious use of antimicrobials to maximize public and animal health benefits while minimizing risks.

DeHaven cautions that any decision to withdraw approval or ban any antimicrobial uses should be based on solid science and risk-based assessment, and not on anecdotal reports and speculation.

Courtesy: NAFB News