Sales of medically important antibiotics for farm animals rose 16% in 2024 after years of relative stability, renewing concerns about antibiotic resistance and how these drugs are used in animal agriculture. The increase showed up across cattle, pigs, and poultry, and experts say the available sales data does not fully explain what is driving the jump. The rise is also drawing attention because antibiotic resistance remains a serious public health issue, while federal agencies involved in oversight and response have faced staffing cuts.
Why This Matters:
Antibiotic use in the food system can have long-term implications for both public health and food production. Changes in agricultural practices and oversight can affect the safety, resilience, and reliability of the food supply.
Read the full article here.
Source: Civil Eats
By: Lisa Held
