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How can we reduce the use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals?

Bacteria are everywhere: in our body, in animals, in the environment. They play an important role in the planet’s ecosystem.

Antimicrobials, such as antibiotics, are used to treat bacterial infections in animals and humans.

Misuse of antimicrobials can lead to bacteria becoming resistant.

Resistant bacteria can be transmitted between animals, humans and the environment.

They can also
be found in food,
including food derived from animals
such as meat,
milk and eggs
.


Over 35,000 deaths
every year in the EU due to AMR.

What can be done
to reduce the use
of antibiotics in animals?

AMR is a global challenge,
and the use of antimicrobials in animals is part of the problem.
If AMR continues to grow, it will be increasingly difficult to treat some diseases.

Reduce

Reduce

the use of antimicrobials

expand

Reduce

Set targets

more info

Increase responsibility
of veterinarians

more info

Use antimicrobials
only when needed

more info

Replace

Replace

antimicrobials with alternative treatments

expand

Replace

Consider alternatives

more info

Research new alternatives

more info

Develop a EU legal framework

more info

Rethink

Rethink

the livestock production system

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Rethink

Improve prevention and control of diseases in animals

more info

Consider alternative farming systems

more info

Offer education

more info

coordination

These measures
should be run together
within an integrated strategy.

monitoring

Monitoring the use of antimicrobials in animals and humans and the levels of antimicrobial resistance is key to assessing the effectiveness of measures taken.

cooperation

Governments, industry, health professionals, scientists, and consumers all have a role to play.

Together we are stronger,
together we can fight this threat.