The United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization says the overuse of antibiotics requires globally coordinated efforts. The FAO says that overuse is impacting rural livelihoods and food security. NPPC President Elect John Weber says those concerns are valid and steps being taken in the U.S. on food animals are going in the right direction.
He says antibiotic use has a proper place in agriculture especially in ensuring the health of the animals.
Weber says new rules on ag antibiotic use that go into effect the end of this year are good in that producers will now work more closely with their local veterinarian in administering antibiotics. He says the new rules on record keeping will also be helpful.
Weber agrees with FAO’s Deputy Director General that broad improvement in hygiene, disease prevention, and veterinary oversight are critical in reducing the overuse of antibiotics.
