Livestock

Monitoring antibiotic resistance in livestock

A couple of farming trucks driving through a field.

The problem

Agriculture - From farm to fork

Agricultural food production is a major contributor to the spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment. Evidence indicates that in certain countries, antibiotics are used as frequently or even more so in animals than in humans. This practice can give rise to antibiotic resistance within farm animal microbiota, which is subsequently released into the environment through animal waste.

Since a large portion of agricultural animal waste is also utilized as manure fertilizer for crop production, there are valid concerns about the possible transmission of antibiotic resistance from farms to consumers' tables. Implementing monitoring for antibiotic resistance genes in agricultural environments is an absolutely necessary addition to biosecurity procedures that further promote sustainable agricultural practises.

Only 42

Countries have systems to track the usage of antimicrobials in livestock.

60%

Of future increased usage of antmicrobials is predicted to be within agriculture.

How we can help

Improved biosecurity

Farmers and veterinarians may face challenges in integrating routine AMR monitoring into their demanding schedules. Drawing from our extensive international experience, we have developed optional auxiliary services, such as sample collection kits, DNA extraction, and shipping solutions. This enables you to customize our support according to your specific needs. Our commitment is to assist you at every stage so that you can gain valuable insights into the status of antibiotic resistance in your agricultural operations and strengthen biosecurity measures within them.

Preventive treatments

We recognize the vital importance of preventing infections in livestock. However, using antibiotics for prevention will only heighten the threat of an emergence of multi-resistant bacteria. Preventive measures are widely practiced in many regions, and while it will require time to discover alternative solutions, we can proactively address potentially harmful tendencies by consistently monitoring resistance in animal manure, feed, and soil. With our thorough monitoring solutions, farmers and veterinarians can detect and counteract the formation of resistance hotspots that put livestock at risk.

One Health approach

The well-being of humans, animals, and the environment are closely linked, and it's crucial to uphold all three for the benefit of each. Veterinarians hold One Health in high regard as it encompasses this interconnectedness. At Resistomap, we strongly advocate for the One Health approach as essential in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.  By taking proactive steps like monitoring AMR in agriculture, you contribute to the global effort to defend public health against one of our most significant challenges today.

Benefits

Track

Track advancements in the AMR characteristics within manure, animal waste, livestock feed, soil, and surrounding waterways.

Respond

Utilise insights to enable responsive strategies for addressing heightened resistance.

Prevent

Implement an early detection system through regular monitoring of AMR patterns, to prevent the emergence of hotspots.

The use of antimicrobials in agriculture contributes to the spread of AMR and undermines the effectiveness of veterinary medicines. Making sure these treatments remain effective and available to the agriculture sector is critical.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Monitor antibiotic resistance with our cutting-edge technology

Contact us to see how our biosecurity intelligence platform can benefit your organization