Global trends in antimicrobial use in food animals
This study by experts from Princeton University, ILRI and other institutions is the first to measure global antibiotic consumption by livestock. Antimicrobials are used in livestock production to maintain health and productivity, however these practices contribute to the spread of drug-resistant pathogens in both livestock and humans, posing a significant public health threat. The paper presents a global map (228 countries) of antibiotic consumption in livestock. The researchers are expecting that due to urbanisation, increased wealth and changing diets, antimicrobial consumption will rise which will cause a risk of creating drug-resistant “super bugs”. Asia is the main region of concern as this is where demand for livestock products is growing fastest.